Upgrading at the Skill Positions
Aaron Rodgers signing with the Giants could be intriguing for several reasons, particularly if it includes adding star receiver Davante Adams alongside him. Rodgers and Adams were long-time teammates with the Packers. After Adams was traded midseason to the Jets to reunite with Rodgers, the possibility of Adams following Rodgers to New York’s other football team becomes increasingly likely.
While there is no guarantee, the prospect of Rodgers throwing to both Adams and Jaxon Smith-Njigba (before eventually handing the offense over to a young quarterback like Cam Ward) is an exciting one. Another top option for the Giants is receiver Cooper Kupp, who could be on the trade block after Puka Nacua emerged as the Rams’ primary receiver. As for longtime Giants receiver Darius Slayton, he’s hoping to join a contender in the later stages of his career, which likely means leaving New York behind.
Photo Cred: NBC News
At running back, Tyrone Tracy had a breakout rookie season. With Devin Singletary and Eric Gray under contract behind him, the team is likely set with their stable of backs for the foreseeable future. If the Giants decide against drafting a quarterback, defensive end Abdul Carter and two-way star Travis Hunter could be among the top prospects available. Both would add much-needed talent to a Giants roster that’s looking for a spark.
Defense
On the defensive side of the ball, Dexter Lawrence, Rakeem Nunez-Roches, and Elijah Chatman anchor the defensive line. However, Nunez-Roches could be a cap casualty, and the Giants may look to the draft for a potential replacement. Kayvon Thibodeaux and Brian Burns are expected to lead the linebacking corps, with Micah McFadden also expected to return. Defensive captain Bobby Okereke, however, could be a surprise cut candidate after failing to make the same impact this past season under Shane Bowen’s defensive scheme.
Photo Cred: Goal.com
The Giants’ most significant potential addition on defense may come in the secondary. While the safety positions are well-covered with Tyler Nubin and Jason Pinnock, the Giants lack a true shutdown corner. With Deonte Banks struggling at the position, D.J. Reed of the Jets could be the ideal candidate to start alongside Adoree’ Jackson. New York might be willing to offer up to $72 million for Reed or another high-caliber cornerback. Other options include Carlton Davis of the Lions and Charvarius Ward of the Niners, but neither possesses Reed’s skill set, making him the Giants’ primary target.
