Free Agent Buzz

In the last couple weeks there has been talk involving a couple of players with some ties to the Giants, Clinton Portis and Plaxico Burress. During this time of year speculation and rumors are usually started by agents or aging players looking to create a market for themselves. I’m going to offer up my thoughts and opinions on these two players and their free agent futures

Clinton Portis, RB, Washington Redskins. Recently, Portis specifically mentioned his desire to play for Big Blue, one of his main reasons, to play Washington twice a year. If this was about 3 or 4 years ago, this guy would be no brainer addition to the Giants. The Giants might be in a need a running back if they decide to make some changes to the current back field, and some options could be available in free agency. However, the nagging injuries on Portis have really piled up on this once quality workhorse. An alum of the “U”, is turning 30 on September 1st , a significant age for running backs, plus has almost 10,000 yards on his tires. Portis, who has only played in 13 games the last two years combined, putting up 721 yards, is a shell of his former self. I’d highly be surprised if the Giants had any interest in Portis, and I’d also be shocked if he puts up over 300 yards rushing in 2011. However, I think Portis has a better chance of getting signed over former NBC employee, Tiki Barber.

Plaxico Burress, WR, NY Giants. We all know Plax’s story and his upcoming release from prison on June 6th. Currently, the former Giant is 33 years old and will be 34 before the season starts. The question is how much rust is on his 6’5 frame after spending 2 years out of the NFL. It’s unquestioned that his time with the Giants he was Eli’s main target and was a legitimate playmaker. With the lockout probably dragging into July at the earliest, only hurts Plax’s chances to possibly find a team. The most recent talk has centered on the Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh Steelers or maybe the New England Patriots as potentially interested teams. I think the Eagles are probably a long shot since their main focus will be trying to acquire Nnamdi Asomugha. The Steelers, maybe, but not likely after the first go around with him. The Steelers have a strong lockerroom and would be a good environment to walk into, but typically, they dont make many big free agent signings, instead building their roster via the draft. The Patriots? Unlikely, after their experience with Randy Moss. My pick is a team like the Rams, one reason is head coach Spags, former Giants defensive coordinator. I honestly hope for the best for Plaxico, he made a dumb mistake in a night club, and deserves another chance, but I’m not sure if everyone’s enemy, age is just too much.

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