[Buckskin86]

July 10, 2008
Olivea newest Giant
BY PAUL SCHWARTZ

The newest member of the GiantsNew York Giants is a 26-year old with local ties, a Long Islander named Shane Olivea, who has agreed to terms on a one-year contract. He will sign the deal after he works out for the Giants and passes a physical.


Olivea was a starting right tackle for the Chargers for four years but was released last February. The NFL hit him with a four-game suspension (to be served at the start of this season) for violating the league's Substance Abuse Policy but yesterday that suspension was rescinded because of what his agent, Kenny Zuckerman, called "a clerical issue.'' That cleared the way for the Giants to reel Olivea in.

The 6-4, 312-pound offensive lineman was originally a seventh-round draft pick out of Ohio State. He was born in Cedarhurst and played at Lawrence High School. After starting 57 of 60 games for the Chargers, Olivea adds considerable depth to the Giants line, which was devoid of any proven reserve strength at the tackle position. The primary backup, tackle Guy WhimperGuy Whimper , played sparingly in his two seasons. Adam KoetsAdam Koets , a rookie last year, did not play at all.

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