Monday, January 15, 2007

Reese Named GM

As expected, director of player personnel Jerry Reese received his promotion to General Manager of the New York Football Giants. On the day his predecessor Ernie Accorsi formally stepped down, the Giants announced Reese would be the man to replace him. Reese has earned respect in the organization with his scouting abilities for the NFL draft. In 1994, Reese took a position in the organization in the scouting department. His ability to identify talent has made him a valued employee ever since. He's been instrumental in several key draft decisions since assuming his previous role in 2003, including uncovering Osi Umenyiora out of Troy.

It has been presumed since last year that Reese would inherit the position. Once Scott Pioli decided to stay in New England, the move was pretty much confirmed. Reese led a solid 2006 draft for the Giants, but the bigger questions will be how he upgrades the team through free agency. He's a "draft-first" guy, so may not be willing to break the bank on a prized talent. Studying under the Ernie Accorsi school, pass rushers and cornerbacks should be on his mind. Roping in a playmaking corner should be his first priority when the Giants go on the clock with the 20th pick in the 2007 draft.

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