In one of those under-the-radar moves GM Jerry Reese has become known for, the Giants added some depth to their offensive line Thursday. Four-year veteran starter Shane Olivea has agreed to a deal with the Giants.
I know nothing about Olivea, but this sounds like it might be a coup for the Giants. Here is the New York Post's Paul Schwartz on the move.
Olivea was a starting right tackle for the Chargers for four years but was released last February. The NFL hit him with a four-game suspension (to be served at the start of this season) for violating the league's Substance Abuse Policy but yesterday that suspension was rescinded because of what his agent, Kenny Zuckerman, called "a clerical issue.'' That cleared the way for the Giants to reel Olivea in.
The 6-4, 312-pound offensive lineman was originally a seventh-round draft pick out of Ohio State. He was born in Cedarhurst and played at Lawrence High School. After starting 57 of 60 games for the Chargers, Olivea adds considerable depth to the Giants line, which was devoid of any proven reserve strength at the tackle position. The primary backup, tackle Guy Whimper, played sparingly in his two seasons. Adam Koets, a rookie last year, did not play at all.
As always, in Reese we trust.