New York Giants outside linebacker Olivier Vernon earned a spot on Pro Football Focus’ top 101 players list for the third time in his career following the 2018 season.
Vernon, who finished the season with 7.0 sacks after battling an ankle injury at the beginning of the season, is a polarizing figure in the eyes of Big Blue fans. His production hasn’t been terrible, but the for the price, it has left fans wanting more.
Regardless, Vernon came in at No. 70 on Pro Football Focus’ annual list of the top 101 players in the NFL.
70. OLIVIER VERNON, NEW YORK GIANTS
Top 101 appearances: 3
After an ankle injury forced Vernon from the field early in the 2018 season, he rebounded nicely with an 86.3 overall grade and 86.0 pass rush grade, ranking 13th and tied-for-seventh respectively, among edge defenders. Vernon made an impact with 46 total pressures on 414 pass-rush snaps for a pressure rate of 11.1 percent.
While the Giants have many decisions to make this offseason, Vernon will undoubtedly be one of them with his massive contract.
Will the Colts keep him hoping he can turn into the premier edge rusher he’s paid to be? Or will general manager Dave Gettleman cut ties with the former third-round pick eating $12 million in dead cap over the next two seasons.
It remains to be seen what will happen with Vernon this offseason, but a large decision looms one way or the other.
