Around The NFL predicts the Week 1 starting lineups for all 32 teams, analyzing the potential impact of each rookie class. See every breakdown here.
» Let's start at safety, where second-rounder Landon Collins has been talked about as an early candidate for Defensive Rookie of the Year. That's wildly premature, but we know that he will anchor this secondary beginning in Week 1. With Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and Prince Amukamara at corner, the Collins pick -- if he pans out -- fills the most glaring need on this roster. "He's built like a truck," Amukamara said of the rookie, adding that Collins is already "taking charge" during offseason practices.Â
» First-round rookie Ereck Flowers projects as a Week 1 starter at right tackle. That would allow the G-Men to shift Justin Pugh over to left guard, bolstering a line that finished ninth-best in the league last season with 30 sacks allowed. (Editor's note: Will Beatty's torn pectoral injury pushers Flowers to left taclke and shifts Pugh to right tackle.)
»Rashad Jennings is plugged in as the top runner, but expect to see plenty of second-year back Andre Williams. Passing downs will feature Shane Vereen catching darts out of the backfield, something he excelled at with the Patriots. Vereen gives Manning an exciting new component to work with.
»J.T. Thomas figures to start at weakside linebacker after starting 10 games for the Jaguars last season. The Giants needed a more athletic linebacker and Thomas fits the bill.
» Pairing a healthy Victor Cruz alongside Odell Beckham Jr. means instant trouble for opposing secondaries. With Beckham drawing double teams down the stretch, Rueben Randle blew up over the final two games of last year for outputs of 132 and 158 yards. If this group can stay out of the trainer's room, mark my words: The Giants will march into Week 17 with a chance at the playoffs.
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