Most significant signing: Of the five new players the Giants signed early in the free-agency period, it's possible none will be a starter in 2015. But running back Shane Vereen has the opportunity to affect the offense as a third-down back and a short-range pass-catching option out of the backfield for quarterback Eli Manning. With uncertainty lingering about wide receiver Victor Cruz as he works to recover from a serious knee injury, and with Rashad Jennings and Andre Williams slated for the early-down work, Vereen is the Giants' fresh hope for an added dimension to the Ben McAdoo offense that showed flashes of real promise in 2014.

Most significant loss: The Giants rarely get burned by letting free agents walk -- especially free agents in their 30s. So it's hard to make the case they should have matched the contract the Bears gave safety Antrel Rolle. But talking to Giants players in the wake of the news that Rolle was really gone, you got the definite impression that he'll be the loss they feel the most. Rolle isn't the player he used to be, but a year after they let defensive captain Justin Tuck leave without a fight, doing the same with Rolle means the Giants will be looking for new leaders on that side of the ball.

Biggest surprise: The relative inactivity, really. Letting Rolle walk was one thing, but the Giants have watched free-agent safety after free-agent safety fly off the board without signing one. They made a big early play for Devin McCourty, who stayed in New England, and they continue to discuss a return with Stevie Brown. But there was a lot of middle ground between McCourty and Brown on the safety market, and it's surprising the Giants haven't yet added a player at that position. Likewise, it's doubtful Marshall Newhouse is the answer they're looking for on the offensive line, and it's a bit surprising they haven't signed a starter-caliber guard or tackle.

What's next: The Giants got busy during the second week of free agency last year, and they got busier than any team in the league, so there's still hope for some activity. They don't have as many roster holes to fill as they did last year, though, so don't expect that kind of shopping spree. I wouldn't be surprised to see them bring back Brown or a safety or two at that level and then shop the bargain bin for offensive line solutions. Blocking tight end Daniel Fells is still a possibility to return, though he's also talking to other teams.