New York Giants general manager Joe Schoen orchestrated an astute trade on Monday, sending veteran defensive lineman Leonard Williams to the Seattle Seahawks. In return, the Giants procured a 2nd-round pick in 2024 and a 5th-round pick in 2025, effectively gaining draft assets for a player nearing the end of his contract.
Williams has been invaluable to the Giants over the last two years, emerging as one of their top defensive assets. But it became apparent that the team had no plans to extend his contract past the 2023 season, making the offered draft capital too tempting to resist.
Adoree Jackson’s Uncertain Future With the Giants
The Giants still have several veterans potentially on the trading block, with cornerback Adoree Jackson standing out. At 28 and in his seventh NFL season, Jackson’s performance has waned this year.
Over 393 snaps, he has conceded 390 yards in coverage, including a touchdown. A particularly glaring misstep was his pass interference against the New York Jets, which set up the latter for a game-winning field goal. With the Giants preparing to transition rookie Deonte Banks to the CB1 role, Jackson’s tenure with the team seems questionable.
While the Giants aim to rejuvenate their roster, trading Jackson may not bring significant salary relief. They would’ve needed to restructure Jackson’s contract by 4 PM on Monday, but the only agreement they amended was Williams’.
Yet, trading Jackson remains plausible. The Buffalo Bills, in their quest for a seasoned figure in their defensive backfield, could be ideal partners. Rumors even suggest they might offer their 2022 first-round pick, Kaiir Elam, who hasn’t cemented his position in their lineup this season.
- Giants’ offense undergoing modernizing change with Daboll calling plays at camp
- Giants’ rookie safety not practicing at training camp due to calf injury
- The Giants might have a starting corner emerging from the pile
Evaluating Elam’s Potential
Elam, standing 6’1″ and weighing 191 pounds, has participated in just 157 snaps this season. He’s allowed 135 yards in coverage, accrued a penalty, and made 11 tackles. The previous year saw him play 570 snaps, during which he surrendered 381 yards, two touchdowns, and secured three interceptions. At a mere 22, the Giants might perceive Elam as a promising talent, potentially suited for the CB2 slot.
Trading Jackson could instigate a contest for the CB2 position between Elam and sixth-round rookie Tre Hawkins. Identifying whether the Giants possess a dynamic young cornerback duo is a constructive approach, optimizing costs and freeing up salary for other strategic investments.
Considering Elam’s first-round selection status, he carries a fifth-year option. Such a trade would equip the Bills with a seasoned pro while bestowing the Giants with a burgeoning talent boasting considerable potential.