National Football League

Report: Giants expect DE Robert Ayers to be 100 percent for OTAs

Published May. 20, 2015 9:12 a.m. ET

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On a per snap basis, defensive end Robert Ayers was arguably the New York Giants' most productive pass rusher in 2014. According to Pro Football Focus, on just 249 pass rush snaps, Ayers racked up five sacks, 12 quarterback hits and an additional 29 quarterback hurries. It took Jason Pierre-Paul more than double Ayers' pass rush snaps to rack up 14 more combined pressures. Of course, Ayers only logged 386 total defensive snaps because a torn pectoral injury cut his season short.

There had been some whispers about a prolonged recovery period, but according to John Schmeelk of Giants.com, Ayers should be 100 percent for spring workouts.

Getting Ayers back for as many offseason reps as possible as key for the Giants. As they transition to new defensive coordinator Steve Spagunolo's scheme, it is important to get all the pieces practicing together. For Ayers, he will now have every opportunity to claim the Giants' vacant left defensive end spot formerly held down by Mathias Kiwanuka.

The competition at left defensive end will likely be the most entertaining and heated battle of OTAs and training camp. Ayers will compete with George Selvie, Damontre Moore and rookie Owa Odighizuwa. Selvie, a free agent from the Cowboys, has had success as a rotational end. He is known for his run defense. Moore is a third year player who has flashed big time potential as a pass rusher, but he needs to prove he can play assignment football and stop the run. Lastly, Odighizuwa might be a third-round pick, but he is already drawing comparison to Justin Tuck for his versatility and ability to play the run and pass.

Keep an eye on this battle throughout the summer. More likely than not, the Giants will utilize a rotation that involves all four players to some degree. However, one player is likely to emerge as the starter in base packages, and a healthy Ayers has the upper hand.

(h/t New York Giants)

Photo Credit: John Munson/NJ Advance Media via USA TODAY Sports