Giants Daily Blitz Blog

Daily Blitz: Blue-chip Giants

Blue chips or red chips, the New York Giants had plenty of both as they took the pot last season.

Former NFL team executive and current NFL Network analyst Michael Lombardi ranked such individuals in his annual list of blue-chip/red-chip players and coaches.

In total, seven members from the defending Super Bowl champions made the cut. But first, here’s a look at Lombardi’s qualifications:

Definition of a blue-chip player

» Demonstrates rare abilities and creates mismatches that have an obvious impact on the game.

» Is a premier player in the league and a weapon on the field.

» Combines competitiveness and skill to provide a consistent championship-level performance.

» Rates in the top five at his position in the league.

Definition of a red-chip player

» Has abilities that can create mismatches vs. most opponents in the league.

» Is a featured player on his team and has an impact on the outcome of the game.

» Can’t be taken out of the game in a one-on-one matchup.

» Is consistent from week to week.

» Plays at a championship level.

» Rates in the top 10 at his position in the league.

With that said, two-time Super Bowl MVP Eli Manning was considered a blue-chip quarterback, along with Aaron Rodgers, Tom Brady, Drew Brees and Ben Roethlisberger. Wide receiver Victor Cruz and guard Chris Snee rounded out the three Giants on offense receiving blue-chip labels at their respective positions.

On defense, Jason Pierre-Paul was the lone blue-chipper, while Lombardi considered Justin Tuck and Mathias Kiwanuka as red-chip players.

Tom Coughlin also earned a blue chip, joining Mike McCarthy (Packers), Bill Belichick (Patriots), Jim Harbaugh (49ers), and John Harbaugh (Ravens).