Linval Joseph: Is their room for the NYG Strong Man?
When Linval Joseph was drafted in the 2nd round of the 2010 NFL Draft (46th overall), the 4th year Defensive Tackle was basically on the roster to red shirt the season. His rookie season was played by observing starter and free agent at the time, Barry Cofield. When Cofield signed a contract with the Washington Redskins, it was time for Joseph, a massive DT, to take his place on the defensive line and prove that he was worthy of the high draft pick.
Not only did he prove his worth, he quietly had a solid season along side veteran Chris Canty. Joseph played in all 20 games during the 2011 season, which included the playoffs and Super Bowl.
However, much like Cofield, the 25 year old Joseph is a free agent and is now lumped in with many other important off season decisions that General Jerry Reese and company will have to make.
Joseph’s defensive tenure with the Giants has been much like his demeanor. He’s been very solid, quiet and dependable. He has taken on a leadership position among the defensive tackles. Although being one of the younger players in the group, he has had the longest Giants career among the group.
The Giants would love to keep a young ascending player like Joseph. When free agency begins, he will be a hot commodity and a under the radar addition for an NFL team.
In the 2013 NFL Draft, the Giants drafted DT Johnathan Hankins out of Ohio State. The youth of Hankins and 2nd year player Markus Kuhn secure the likelihood that Joseph will not be back. The Giants have brought Hankins along slowly, much like they did with Joseph, and he will most certainly be in future plans.
Marco Imperati | Featured Columnist