#4: Damon Harrison
It was a surprise when the New York Giants were able to sign the man with the best nickname in the NFL. Everybody expected Damon “Snacks” Harrison to remain with the New York Jets back in March. Then out of the blue it was revealed the G-men had added him to their revamped defensive front. It was clear from the outset that they were intent on finding somebody who could improve what has been a porous run defense in recent years.
I've now graded three centers who faced Damon Harrison this year. It didn't go well for any of them. #NFL1000
— Doug Farrar ✍ (@NFL_DougFarrar) September 27, 2016
Ever so quietly, that is just what the big defensive tackle has done. Going into Monday Night, the Giants have the 4th toughest run defense in the NFL, allowing just 77.3 yards per game. That is a significant improvement from where they were a year ago, ranking 24th. Given the average group of linebackers they have, that only enhances the impact Harrison is having. Just goes to show that pass rushing isn’t everything in this league.