The Rest Is Covered By Smoot

While the NFL world has its attention on the scouting combine in Indianapolis, it's hard not to look ahead to the fastly approaching Free Agency Period. Beginning this Friday, it's shopping season and several NFL owners are sure to have their checkbooks ready. Giants fans are hoping that new GM Jerry Reese will bring home some new gifts, preferably a playmaking cornerback who can shut down opposing number one receivers. According to Adam Schefter of NFL.com, another prized candidate could hit the open market. Fred Smoot, of "water covers two-thirds of the earth, Smoot covers the rest" fame, is likely to be cut this week before he receives a bonus from the Vikings. If he becomes available, the Giants should certainly join the Smoot sweepstakes.

Aside from his cockiness and propensity to say a foolish thing or two, injuries have to be a red flag. He's played all 16 games only once in his 6 year career. His interception numbers have declined every year since a career high 5 in his rookie year, but that seems to be more indicative of teams throwing in the opposite direction. I'd also be wary of potential character issues. Smoot played a central role in the "love boat" scandal that rocked the Vikings two offseasons ago. Not to sound insensitive to the issues in that situation, but it's not shocking that wealthy young men would act in those ways. I don't think it's an indictment on many of their characters. Before digressing in to that, he can bring a lot of positives to the table. He's shown an ability to make plays and can stick with any receiver in the league. His price tag could be similar to fellow free agent Nate Clements, which at this point is too steep for the Giants pockets. With a recent "decline" in production he could come cheaper, which would be crucial in a potential Giants pursuit. He could be a very enticing solution to the Giants cornerback problems.