A favorite of Shane Bowen, a former player of his, Denico Autry, could be the key to helping New York Giants’ All-Pro Dexter Lawrence II avoid double teams in 2024. According to Dan Benton of USA Today Sports Giants Wire, Bowen, the Giants’ defensive coordinator, should prioritize creating one-on-one matchups for Lawrence. Benton suggests that signing Autry in the 2024 NFL free agency could help alleviate the pressure on Lawrence caused by double- and triple-teams resulting from the mid-season trade of Leonard Williams to the Seattle Seahawks. Despite Autry’s age, Benton believes that his productivity and familiarity with Bowen’s system make him a valuable addition to the Giants’ defense.
Autry’s impressive performance in 2023, with career-highs in tackles, forced fumbles, and sacks, makes him an appealing choice for the Giants. The team lacked a dominant defensive lineman last season, with Lawrence being the top performer with only 4.5 sacks. Autry’s versatility as a defensive end or tackle adds to his value, as he can effectively collapse the pocket and disrupt the opposing team’s offense.
The combination of Autry and Jeffery Simmons, a defensive tackle for the Tennessee Titans, showcases how Bowen can build a formidable pass rush around Lawrence. Autry’s ability to execute twists and games, as seen in his sack against the Atlanta Falcons and successful stunt against the New Orleans Saints, provides Lawrence with the edge presence he needs. Autry’s experience with Bowen’s system further strengthens the case for his potential signing by the Giants.
In conclusion, the addition of Denico Autry to the New York Giants’ defense in 2024 could greatly benefit Dexter Lawrence II by creating one-on-one matchups and reducing double teams. Autry’s productivity, versatility, and familiarity with Shane Bowen’s system make him an attractive option for the Giants, especially considering their need for a dominant defensive lineman.
THE GIANTS’ BARGAIN FEE FOR RECREATING A DOUBLE ACT
The New York Giants have the opportunity to bring back a dynamic duo at a bargain price. Denico Autry, who earned a $6.75 million base salary in 2023, is a player the Giants can afford to match financially. Autry’s reunion with defensive coordinator Patrick Bowen is an enticing prospect for both parties involved.
Bowen, known for his ability to create a strong pass rush, will be able to utilize Autry’s skills alongside fellow defensive linemen Dexter Lawrence and Kayvon Thibodeaux. This trio would be instrumental in executing Bowen’s gameplan-specific scheme, which focuses less on blitzing compared to his predecessor, Don ‘Wink’ Martindale.
Martindale’s success with Lawrence, transforming him from a run-stopper to a disruptive pass-rusher, is something Bowen aims to replicate. With Bowen’s track record of developing players, such as two-time Pro Bowler Jeffery Simmons, Lawrence’s progress is in capable hands.
Bowen’s defensive strategies, often favoring odd fronts with nickel personnel, will allow Lawrence to exploit weak blockers and single gaps. This approach will undoubtedly boost Lawrence’s sack totals and maintain his effectiveness over the ball.
However, the Giants may have to move forward without linebacker Azeez Ojulari, as they voided his contract after just one season. This decision leaves the door open for Autry to join the team and contribute to a more balanced defense under Bowen’s guidance.
While the Giants still have the option to re-sign Ojulari, it would have been more advantageous to secure his services before his contract was voided. Ojulari had been poised to cash in this offseason, but it appears he will find a new team to call home.
In the meantime, the Giants can focus their attention on securing Autry’s signature. With the cap space available, Autry’s reunion with Bowen seems like a logical and cost-effective move for the team.
James Dudko, a sports reporter covering the New York Giants, Washington Commanders, New England Patriots, and Baltimore Ravens, provides insightful coverage on these teams. Stay connected for more updates on the Giants’ offseason moves.
According to the Source heavy.com