The New York Giants are quietly addressing some of their key defensive shortcomings from last season through strategic signings in free agency. While high-profile moves like Jevon Holland and Paulson Adebo have dominated the headlines, general manager Joe Schoen is also focused on bolstering depth in areas that were crucial weaknesses in 2024. His latest moves include signing defensive lineman Jeremiah Ledbetter and linebacker Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles.
While neither Ledbetter nor Flannigan-Fowles are expected to be game-changers, they bring much-needed experience to a defense that struggled last year. After finishing near the bottom in rush defense and special teams, the Giants are reinforcing the areas that hurt them most in their previous campaign.
Both players fit New York’s growing trend of valuing versatility. Ledbetter can line up both inside and outside on the defensive line, while Flannigan-Fowles, primarily a special teams contributor, will add depth at linebacker.
Giants add experienced depth to their defense
Ledbetter, 30, is coming off a strong season with the Jacksonville Jaguars, having played in 15 games and recording two sacks, eight tackles for loss, and 38 total tackles. A former sixth-round pick by the Detroit Lions in 2017, he has previously played for Tampa Bay and Arizona before carving out a role with Jacksonville. His ability to line up at multiple positions along the defensive line gives defensive coordinator Shane Bowen more flexibility. While he won’t be an every-down player, Ledbetter is a reliable rotational piece who can step in when needed.
Flannigan-Fowles, 28, spent five seasons with the San Francisco 49ers after signing as an undrafted free agent out of Arizona in 2019. With 73 career games played, including seven starts, he made his biggest impact on special teams, ranking in the top 20 for total special teams tackles (37) since 2020, and finishing fifth in the league with 15 special teams tackles in 2022.
Though Flannigan-Fowles isn’t expected to compete for a starting linebacker spot, he’ll provide critical depth and be a key special teams contributor. He could also see some rotational snaps behind Bobby Okereke and Micah McFadden.
These signings may not make waves among Giants fans expecting bigger moves, but in a league where depth is essential, these strategic additions could pay off. The Giants learned the hard way last season that not having strong backups can derail a season, and these two moves will help ensure they’re better equipped for any challenges ahead.
