New York Giants free agency 2018: Top 5 targets

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - DECEMBER 31: Quarterback Eli Manning No. 10 of the New York Giants calls signals during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins on December 31, 2017 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Giants won 18-10. (Photo by Paul Bereswill/Getty Images) /

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NASHVILLE, TN – DECEMBER 31: Leonard Fournette /

2. Avery Williamson

BJ Goodson has shown some promise in the middle, but no team has neglected the second level of their defense like the Giants over the years. New General Manager Dave Gettleman comes over from the Panthers, a franchise that quite possibly puts the most value on the linebacker position in the entire league.

New York won’t be selecting a linebacker with the second-overall draft pick, but they could look for an active second level defender in free agency like Williamson. Williamson isn’t a hammer in the run game and can miss tackles, but his range would be a welcome addition to New York’s defense and he is excellent in pursuit. Williamson is an accomplished player in the passing game, including showing some pension as a blitzer.

At just 25-years-old, Williamson’s best days still could be ahead of him. True linebackers usually come at a reasonable price, but Williamson will get plenty of attention on the open market. New York could really use him. It is also noteworthy that Jonathan Casillas and Devon Kennard have contracts expiring as well.

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