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Lawrence Timmons: 5 best fits in NFL free agency

By Parker Hurley

Oct 16, 2016; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jarvis Landry (14) is tackled by Pittsburgh Steelers inside linebacker Lawrence Timmons (94) during the second half at Hard Rock Stadium. The Dolphins won 30-15. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 16, 2016; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jarvis Landry (14) is tackled by Pittsburgh Steelers inside linebacker Lawrence Timmons (94) during the second half at Hard Rock Stadium. The Dolphins won 30-15. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 22, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) in action against the Philadelphia Eagles during the first half at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 22, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) in action against the Philadelphia Eagles during the first half at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /

3. New York Giants

The Giants may some memories of Timmons from the past offseason. While his coverage skills are certainly his knock, the Giants saw first hand that he can still get out there, run, and make plays against the pass. Eli Manning threw a red zone interception to Timmons in their regular season meeting and watched Timmons blow past him for a 58-yard return. So while other teams will question his coverage skills, the Giants may be paying for a player whose skills they believe in more than others.

The Giants also could add anybody at linebacker and see an upgrade in coverage. The Giants got torched in the middle of the field all season long. Kelvin Sheppard and Keenan Robinson are free agents this offseason. It would leave the Giants with just Devon Kennard, Jonathan Casillas and J.T. Thomas as the only linebackers on the roster. With the lack of depth and no top name talent, Timmons would slide in and be the team’s best linebacker instantly.

The Giants are very close to being legitimate contenders. Their defense took a major step forward in 2016, and the addition of Timmons could be just what they need to take another step. Without Timmons costing too much, they can make some other moves in free agency, and address other positions in the draft to keep the offense on pace. Timmons, coming from Pittsburgh would likely only go to a team with the potential to make a Super Bowl run. If any team could add that appeal, with such a need for a linebacker, it would be the Giants.

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