Needing reinforcements at two depleted positions on defense, the New York Giants signed veteran linebacker Ashlee Palmer and rookie defensive back C.J. Conway on Monday.
The two new players replace safety Justin Currie and linebacker Tony Johnson, each of whom suffered an injury in Saturday's preseason game against Jacksonville. Currie and Johnson were both waived/injured.
Palmer, 29, is a six-year NFL veteran who spent the past five seasons with the Detroit Lions. During those five years, Palmer started a total of 22 regular-season games but played in all 80 -- something that surely appeals to a Giants team that can't seem to shake the injury bug. In addition to Johnson, Giants linebackers Jon Beason (knee) and Mark Herzlich (concussion) sustained injuries in Saturday's game. Not knowing how long either will need to return, the Giants needed to add depth.
Jameel McClain likely takes over Beason's spot at middle linebacker, and if Palmer makes the team he'll likely help out on special teams and serve as a backup on the strong side.
Conway is a rookie free agent from Montclair State who is listed at 6-foot-2, 200 pounds, which is big for a cornerback and makes you wonder whether the Giants will try him at safety, where they need help. In addition to Currie, who broke his ankle, safety Bennett Jackson was injured Saturday, suffering a torn ACL that ends his season. Eight days earlier, in the preseason opener, safety Mykkele Thompson tore his Achilles tendon, and he too will miss the season.
The Giants signed veteran safety Brandon Meriweather for depth last week, and they hope that injured safeties Landon Collins, Nat Berhe and Cooper Taylor can return to practice this week.
