The biggest news on the first day of training camp comes by New York Giants’ left tackle Nate Solder opting out of the 2020 season. This was always a potential possibility, as Solder has been dealing with severe personal issues. His child has fought cancer for several years now, and it has been a major factor in his decrease in efficiency. The Giants hold Solder in high regard, and they completely understood why he decided to make this decision for his family.
What does this mean for the Giants?
Solder opting out of the season allows them to save $19.5 million in salary cap. This gives them the ability to go out and sign a high-profile free agent on a one-year deal. The downside, Solder’s deal will be pushed one year, so his contract will expire in 2022.
This available cap opens up a world of possibilities; let’s take a look at what could happen.
Three free agents the New York Giants could consider:
1.) Logan Ryan
With DeAndre Baker being placed on the Commissioner’s Exempt List due to his legal troubles, the Giants don’t have a CB2. They will go into training camp with a bevy of younger options and unproven commodities, which is not reassuring going into 2020. They will rely on Sam Beal, Darnay homes, and potentially Julian Love to pick up the slack. However, they could look to free agency to supplement Baker’s loss.
One option is Logan Ryan, who is reportedly seeking about $10 million to play this upcoming season. In 2019, he posted a career-high 113 combine tackles, 8 quarterback hits, 4.5 sacks, 18 passes defended, and four interceptions. His statistics are incredibly impressive, but he allowed a 66% completion rate against and five touchdowns. He’s the best corner on the market and could fill Baker’s position valiantly for one season.
2.) Jadeveon Clowney
Clowney is a player who has been linked to the Giants many times this off-season. His price tag has dropped with every passing week and could be snagged on a team-friendly deal at this point. With close to $20 million in their pocket, the Giants could spend $13-14 million to secure his services.
In 2019, Clowney played in 13 games. He posted 31 combined tackles, 13 quarterback hits, and just 3.0 sacks. He has never reached double-digit sacks in his career, but he is able to lock down an entire side of the defensive line. He is an elite run stopper and puts pressure on opposing quarterbacks. While I wouldn’t pay him anything more than $14 million per season, the Giants have the cash to spend on a one-year deal if they wish to go that route.
3.) Everson Griffen
Another solid pass rusher is Everson Griffin, who is currently a free agent and awaiting a new contract. At 32 years old, he is a bit on the older side, but the Giants could use a player with his pedigree.
Last season with the Minnesota Vikings, he posted 8.0 sacks, 41 combined tackles, 24 quarterback hits, and one interception over 15 games. He is a 10-year veteran with four Pro Bowls under his belt, all of which came over the last five seasons. He is a consistently healthy player that offers plenty of value.
While I don’t think Griffin is a high probability signing, he’s one of the better players available on the market.