The loss of third-round pick Sam Beal in the supplemental draft for the New York Giants was a big slap in the face. General manager Dave Gettleman gave up a third-rounder from next year’s draft in hopes of collecting a corner that could contribute this season. Unfortunately, they will likely lose him for his rookie year due to a previous shoulder injury that was re-aggrevated.
This opens up the question – should the New York Giants try and sign a free agent corner?
The Giants only have about $1 million in cap-space remaining after bringing on veteran outside linebacker, Connor Barwin. While he was a stellar signing the secondary remains thin and in need of talent and depth. So, let’s take a look at a few low-cost options for Big Blue, and who might fit the bill given their potential cap-hit.
1.) CB Vontae Davis
While Davis is 29 years-old and incredibly injury prone, his ability on the field is undeniable. He’s a stellar cover corner that plays with physicality and tenacity. Bringing him on with a veteran minimum would be a good move for the Giants. he would provide great depth and could fill a starting role for the time being. His experience would also be a benefit, as the younger players would be able to gain some veteran wisdom. Seems like a win-win from my perspective.
In 2014, Davis had an All-Pro season, recording 27 passes defended and four interceptions. He also had 50 total tackles. There’s nothing that says he can’t replicate that performance given the right scenario, and the Giants may be the perfect fit.
2.) CB Tracy Porter
This would be a big reach in terms of production, but Porter has experience at the NFL’s biggest stage and knows what it takes to succeed at the professional level. He would be a perfect signing in terms of experience and winning knowledge. He’s a guy that could help develop the younger players on the team, similar to the role of Connor Barwin. He might still have some gas left in the tank to play a reserve role in the season ahead.
He would surely be a veteran minimum type of player.
3.) CB Nolan Carroll
At 30 years-old, Nolan Carroll is surely on the back-end of his career, but again, he’s another player with veteran experience that can help develop the secondary. He hasn’t been the most dominant corner throughout his career, but he’s had a few solid seasons. He was Philadelphia’s best corner in 2015, but regressed considerably in 2017.
He could offer value as a depth player and provide the defense with some support and timely rest to keep the unit fresh going into the latter portion of the season.
How can the New York Giants open up a bit of cap-space?
The big question here is: How can the Giants open up money to sign a free agent corner?
Well, cutting offensive lineman John Jerry would be a start. There’s no doubt that they will release a few players, likely a linebacker (Ray-Ray Armstrong) to save a few bucks. This would open yo just enough space to bring on a veteran corner. It’s a move that might be a priority with the young players being featured on the unit.