Replacing Jason Pierre-Paul: What would the Giants do?

With Jason Pierre-Paul undergoing back surgery today to alleviate an issue that multiple reports have indicated plagued him during the 2012 season could the New York Giants dip into the free-agent market for help at defensive end?

If they were to do that the name that leaps to mind is John Abraham, the 35-year-old four-time Pro Bowler who remains on the market despite having racked up 10 quarterback sacks for the Atlanta Falcons in 2012. The Giants could also turn to old friend Dave Tollefson, a free agent after registering just a half-sack for the Oakland Raiders in 2012. Tollefson spent five seasons with the Giants prior to signing with the Raiders as a free agent and had a career-best five sacks in 2011.

The Giants, of course, could also opt to do nothing. The New York Post reported that "A source with knowledge of the procedure told The Post 'the hope is he will be ready before the season starts. ' '' That would be Sept. 8 against the Dallas Cowboys. The team is expected to release a statement later today once surgery is completed. At that time, the team will hopefully have a clearer indication of when Pierre-Paul can realistically be expected to return to action.

Without Pierre-Paul for the time being, and if no roster moves are made, it seems the Giants would go with Justin Tuck and Mathias Kiwanuka as their starting defensive ends. Adrian Tracy would likely be first in line among the reserves, with third-round pick Damontre Moore, Adewale Ojomo, Justin Trattou and Matt Broha.