Thu, Mar 22, 2018 at 10:35am

PIERRE-PAUL PLUCKED BY THE BUCCANEERS

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers acquired defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul and a fourth-round draft pick in 2018 from the New York Giants for a third-round draft pick in 2018 and a fourth-round draft pick in 2018.

What does it give the Tampa Bay Buccaneers
This is a great move by the Bucs because they really struggled to get to the quarterback last season. With 'JPP' on one side and newcomer Vinny Curry (formerly of the Super Bowl-champion Philadelphia Eagles) on the other, Tampa Bay should be able to rush the QB a little more frequently in 2018. This also helps defensive tackle Gerald McCoy. Tampa Bay also moved up six places in the fourth round of the upcoming draft. Overall, this trade should really help the Bucs.

What does it give the New York Giants
For the Giants, this move is mostly about moving out the wrong pieces for their new 3-4 defensive scheme (while adding a quality draft pick). Pierre-Paul can still be a dominant pass-rusher but he is a much better fit as a defensive end in a 4-3 system, so moving him at this time makes a lot of sense. New York receives the 69th overall selection in this year's draft and moved down six spots in Round 4. Pierre-Paul was a popular player in New York but it was time to move on.

Fantasy impact
Pierre-Paul's value in IDP fantasy leagues could get a boost after this trade, because his supporting cast (McCoy, Curry et al) might be better than what he is leaving behind in New York City. This deal also helps McCoy and Curry, but helps Kareem Martin and Olivier Vernon of the Giants (who will likely be the main pass-rushers for the Giants in 2018, though as outside linebackers and not defensive ends.

Player focus

New York Giants

a third-round draft pick in 2018

a fourth-round draft pick in 2018

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Jason Pierre-Paul LB/DE

a fourth-round draft pick in 2018