Free agent contracts Giants need to consider ahead of training camp

The New York Giants didn’t completely blow up their roster this offseason, but they acknowledged that trying to return with a group that made the playoffs in 2022 wasn’t going to work.

New York tried that approach last season and finished 6-11. Since the spring, the Giants have focused on reloading their offensive line, adding difference-makers on defense and improving one of the league’s most capable receiving corps.

Additions like Jon Runyan, Jermaine Eluemunor, Brian Burns, Malik Nabers and Tyler Nubin should improve the Giants in 2024. However, the roster is likely still a few pieces away from being playoff-caliber. New York has just $10.3 million in cap room, but there is still time to make some moves.

Here, we’ll dive into three free agents the Giants should consider before training camp opens (for rookies) on July 16.

The Giants lost a key piece of their offense when Saquon Barkley signed with the rival Eagles as a free agent. They added Devin Singletary and rookie Tyrone Tracy Jr. this offseason, but their backfield depth is still pretty questionable.

Unfortunately, New York isn’t going to find a “sure thing” starter in free agency. There was a race at the position early in free agency, and the pool of players has shrunk considerably.

The Giants could still get a bargain if they take a chance on four-time Pro Bowler Dalvin Cook. The 28-year-old struggled to see the field with the New York Jets last season, but he’s only two years behind a season with 1,468 yards from scrimmage.

Cook is eager to re-establish himself as a top-class fullback.

“I can still cut and take the ball 80 yards when the time is right. I just have to go out and show all these people that Dalvin is still Dalvin,” he told NFL Network. Insiders in May.

Cook should be open to a low-risk deal, and the potential reward from New York could be huge. However, it would be wise to get him into the building before camp so he can be fully integrated into the offense. Cook joined the Jets in mid-August last offseason, which may have been part of the problem.

Expected contract: One year, $2 million

The Giants are unlikely to land cornerback Patrick Peterson on a low-budget deal that could entice Cook or Thomas. Peterson is an eight-time Pro Bowler who played for a $7 million salary with the Pittsburgh Steelers last season.

Still, if the Giants can land the 33-year-old, they should. Peterson isn’t the top-tier cornerback he once was, but he’s still a reliable starter who’s played in all 17 games in 2023.

New York, meanwhile, had its share of coverage issues last season. The team finished 24th in net yards per pass attempt allowed and still doesn’t have any proven depth behind 2023 first-round pick Deonte Banks.

In a division that now features quarterbacks Jalen Hurts, Dak Prescott and Jayden Daniels, that’s a problem.

Peterson’s special teams experience could also benefit the Giants, given the league’s revised kickoff rules for 2024. While he hasn’t been a returner since 2018 and has much more experience returning punts than kickoffs, Peterson could give New York another option in the return game.

While Peterson isn’t the only quality cornerback available (Xavien Howard and Stephon Gilmore headline the remaining market), he’s arguably the best option that could still fit New York’s price range.

Expected contract: One year, $5 million

The Giants added Drew Lock to their roster this offseason, but it’s clear that Daniel Jones, who is recovering from a torn ACL, will have every chance to play when healthy.

“This is Daniel’s year,” general manager Joe Schoen said on HBO Hard Knocks: Offseason with the New York Giants (h/t Eric Edholm of NFL.com). “…Is he our guy for the next 10 years? Or should we change course and find someone else?”

Nabers should quickly become Jones’ new No. 1 target, and the Giants have some interesting young options in Wan’Dale Robinson and Jalin Hyatt. However, New York would be wise to throw a few more darts at receiver to ensure they have a top-tier receiving corps this season.

That’s why the Giants should be banking on former New Orleans Saints star Michae Thomas. Injuries derailed a once-electric career, but the 31-year-old proved he could still contribute last season. He had 39 receptions for 448 yards and a touchdown in 10 games.

Thomas still stands at 6’3″ and weighs 210 pounds, is an excellent pass catcher and a terrific route runner. He could immediately fit in as a reliable possession receiver who complements the rest of New York’s offense. And given his recent struggles, he should be open to a team-friendly contract.

Expected contract: one year, $3 million

*Ceiling and contract information via Spotrac.