The New York Giants took care of one of their most pressing needs this offseason by signing the 27-year-old left tackle to a five-year, $38.75 million contract. The move was a necessity for the Giants as the team has several potential question marks on the offensive line. With Kevin Boothe still unsigned, and injury and performance concerns surrounding Beatty’s incumbent linemates, David Bass, Chris Snee and David Diehl—Giants GM Jerry Reese had to pull the trigger and get the deal done.

But was re-signing Beatty the right decision?

My take on this is that the Giants were forced to make this move as there really wasn’t a left tackle replacement on the open market. You could argue and say that paying close to $40 million dollars for a player with a history of back problems is a bit asinine.

Sure, it could be?

But when healthy Beatty has been one of the best and most valuable players on the offensive line for the Giants. His Pro Football Focus score also reflects this as he scored a very good +22.3 for the 2012 season. One of the bright spots on a line that had its share of inconsistencies at times.

I think the beauty of re-signing Beatty is the fact that the Giants can be open to other positions of need in the draft. Instead of having to focus on offensive line help in the likes of a Chance Warmack—the Giants can look to bolster their cornerback and linebacker positions. Players like cornerback Desmond Trufant and linebacker Alec Ogletree should be draftable at 19.

The Big Blue still have all the pieces needed to be a Super Bowl contender in 2013. Re-signing Beatty is just another piece in the championship puzzle.