The New York Giants needed a middle linebacker and, like many other teams, they snatched one from the free-agent market Monday.
Former Indianapolis Colts star linebacker Bobby Okereke has reportedly agreed to a four-year, $40 million contract with the Giants with $22 million fully guaranteed.
All agreed deals can be signed once the new league year begins on March 15.
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Indianapolis Colts linebacker Bobby Okereke (58) waits for play to resume during the NFL football game between the Los Angeles Chargers and the Indianapolis Colts on December 26, 2022, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis , Indiana. (Michael Allio/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
The 26-year-old Stanford product has been a standout for the Colts since assuming a full-time starting role two seasons ago. Okereke, a former third-round pick, made 132 tackles in 17 games in 2021, as well as two interceptions, four pass defenses and one sack.
He followed that up last season by breaking a career high for tackles with 151 in 17 games. He had five pass defenses and two forced fumbles as well.
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Under defensive coordinator Wink Martindale, the Giants tried different linebacker combinations last season, including Jaylon Smith, Micah McFadden, Landon Collins and Jarrad Davis.
While the Giants’ defense was a solid bunch, their linebacking corps was seen as a mediocre unit. They didn’t have the speed to compete with teams, especially in their own division.
Daniel Jones #8 of the New York Giants in action against Bobby Okereke #58 of the Indianapolis Colts at MetLife Stadium on January 1, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants defeated the Colts 38-10. (Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)
General manager Joe Schoen, armed with a fair amount of salary-cap space despite signing long-term quarterback Daniel Jones as well as franchise-defending running back Saquon Barkley, made the move to shore up that position. when linebackers left the board early.
The Giants defense could still use a cornerback, but they return to most of their group from last season, including the forward four of Jihad Ward, Dexter Lawrence, Leonard Williams and Kayvon Thibodeaux. Adoree’ Jackson, Xavier McKinney, Julian Love and others take care of the secondary.
Indianapolis Colts linebacker Bobby Okereke #58 warms up before a game against the Los Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on November 13, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Colts beat the Raiders 25-20. (Steve Marcus/Getty Images)
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The Giants hope to continue building toward a consistent playoff contender after surprising many with their 9-7-1 record that was good enough for a wild card berth. They ended up defeating the Minnesota Vikings in the first round of the playoffs on the road.