The New York Giants Want Pierre-Paul, Ayers Back – Is That A Smart Move By Jerry Reese?

ESPN reported Wednesday that, according to multiple sources close to the situation, the Giants are interested in bringing back both Jason Pierre-Paul and Robert Ayers. The team plans to meet with representatives for both defensive ends during the NFL combine in an effort to sign the duo for 2016.

Just because the Giants have expressed interest in having JPP and Ayers back, it doesn’t make it so. There’s always the money issue. The Giants have plenty to spend this offseason, but will these two be worth what they demand. According to Jordan Raanan of NJ.com, Ayers’ projected contract would be 3 years, $18 million, similar to that of the Bengals’ Michael Johnson.

Obviously, Pierre-Paul’s contract situation is a bit more complicated. Ben McAdoo praised JPP’s impact this week at the NFL combine. “It was obvious when Jason came back last year how disruptive he was without playing football for a long time.” But if there’s a team out there that’s willing to pay him top dollar for a defensive end, the Giants would be best served to let JPP walk.

McAdoo also revealed Wednesday that it’s unknown whether or not Pierre-Paul will be able to play without a club on his hand. The cast clearly inhibited JPP’s ability to finish sacks and wrap up tackles. His contract remains a mystery, but projections range anywhere from $6 to $10 million per year.

McAdoo preached “evolution, not revolution” at his introductory press conference. That’s a catchy phrase, but revolution is necessary when it comes to the Giants pass rush. Jerry Reese should absolutely bring back Ayers. He’s healthy and his production for the second half of 2015 is not something the Giants can let walk out the door.

Even if the Giants can land JPP at a lower number, is that the best use of money on the defensive line? In that scenario, Reese would likely add another pass rusher to the mix, but is that enough to transform the 30th ranked team in sacks?