The New York Giants have released middle linebacker Antonio Pierce. Pierce emailed the Newark Star-Ledger, saying: "I'm doing great, feeling great. Looking forward to endless possibilities. Loved every moment as a NY GIANT."
Pierce had one year left on the deal he initially signed back in 2005. According to ESPN.com, Pierce had 55 tackles, one sack and one forced fumble in nine games last season, before being placed on IR with a bulging disk on November 30. He led the Giants in tackles the previous three seasons and missed only four regular-season games since leaving the Washington Redskins to join the Giants.
Obviously, the Giants had a terrible defense in 2009-10. I mean, they were awful. (Remember getting ripped by Carolina 41-9 at home in the last game the G-Men ever played at Giants Stadium?) Losing Pierce really hurt the team, not because he was terribly effective when he played earlier in the year with a bulging disk in his back, but because he is the captain and biggest leader on the Giants' D.
Needless to say, his performance...and his heart...need to be replaced next season. But probably not via the draft, says Todd McShay, who predicts the Giants will take a defensive tackle instead of an LB.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
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Not surprised at all by this move. In fact I expected it. Pierce's play declined severely this year and based on his age it seems unlikely that he can improve. No doubt his leadership will be missed.
ReplyDeleteI think that the Kenny Phillips loss was an underrated one. Once that occured, the defense couldn't stop anyone.
ReplyDeleteI think the Giants will miss his leadership (like they did with the loss of Michael Strahan) but I think they can use a younger, quicker, more effective player.
In Mel Kiper's latest mock draft (done today), he has the Giants taking OLB Sergio Kindle from Texas. It's still far away form the draft, but getting stronger at LB has to be a priority.
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