Giants DT Barry Cofield ticketed for free agency

 The new Josh McDaniels connection may change the St. Louis Rams past pattern of chasing former Eagles and Giants in free agency for the offense, but with head coach Steve Spagnuolo still closely involved with the defense, his former players will still be on the radar. 

We've mentioned Giants DE Mathias Kiwanuka as a possible free agent consideration for the Rams. Kiwanuka's status for next season will largely depend on how his recovery from a rather serious injury, a herniated disc in his neck. However, he's not the only NYG free agent defensive lineman this season. 

Spagnuolo should be familiar with DT Barry Cofield since he was an integral part of the Giants' 2007 championship team. Cofield and Fred Robbins, now with the Rams, formed the middle of the devastating front four that ended New England's run at perfection in the Super Bowl. 

And why wouldn't the Giants want to hang on to a player like that? 

Cofield will be a free agent and wants to return but at what price? He is a good presence in the locker room so bringing him back would be a bonus. Still, the Giants eventually have to find more playing time for Joseph. Same goes for Pierre-Paul.

That's from Ohm Youngmisuk at ESPN New York. He's talking about Giants' second round pick DT Linval Joseph. 

Cofield, who turns 27 in March, had 54 tackles and 4 sacks last year. He can play DT and DE, and gives the Rams an upgrade next to Robbins.