New York Giants Free Agency 2016: Offensive Targets At Each Position
By Mike Luca
Wide Receiver: Rishard Matthews OR Roddy White
The security of New York’s wide receiving corps is a long-lost memory. After OBJ, it’s restructure or release for disabled Victor Cruz, momentum is nonexistent with Rueben Randle and pleasant surprise Dwayne Harris is still ideally preserved for kick returns and situational packages.
Should the Cruz relationship end as soon as this week, dynamics must be reinforced in the Giants passing attack via free agency or the draft. Since OBJ’s LSU running mate Jarvis Landry isn’t for sale, Miami Dolphins teammate Matthews might very well be the next best thing.
Imagine what Matthew’s size, speed and numbers (43 REC, 662 YDS, 4 TDS in 2015) would look like in McAdoo’s high-flying aerial attack, or even if he managed to play all 16 games last year. Four years young in this league, his potential is trending upward, yet somehow priced at a reasonable rate.
Pairing him with Harris both in routes and on special teams would nullify the draw of, say, Jermaine Kearse. Spurning one of Matthews’ announced suitors in the New England Patriots is always an added bonus as well.
On the other hand, if Cruz harmoniously takes the pay cut and regains his zip and hips in the slot, that’s when the Giants consider recruiting their next Amani Toomer-esque possession outlet.
Assuming Hakeem Nicks isn’t deemed feasible for the job on his own, White exemplifies this role perfectly in the decelerating stages of his career. Through decreasing statistics, White still garners attention as a chains mover alongside a blanketed OBJ, and McAdoo’s staff will strive to turn that disgruntlement upside down.
White also carries the advantage over a Marques Colston having experience paving the way for a budding elite No. 1 wideout in Julio Jones for the Altanta Falcons.
Aside from egos, there may be enough money to attempt landing both receivers. Alas, there are more pressing holes to patch, primarily along the right side of the offensive line.
Next: OFFENSIVE LINE