5 realistic free agent signings to make NY Giants contenders

4. Markus Golden – Edge

Last season, Markus Golden was the only NY Giants player to record double-digit sacks. After signing a one-year $3.75 million “show-me” deal with the Giants, Golden bounced back from two injury-riddled years with the Arizona Cardinals to be a force in the pass-rushing game for New York.

After performing so well for the team last season, the Giants would be wise to re-sign the free agent to a lucrative deal this offseason. Golden is familiar with the franchise and has proven that he can perform under the bright lights of the New York media.

While there are more elite pass-rushing options available on the market such as Jadeveon Clowney, Yannick Ngakoue, and Shaquil Barrett, they are likely to have the franchise tag placed upon them by their current teams, or they will command a massive amount of money to come to New York.

While it is clear that the Giants are in dire need of improvement in the pass rush, allocating the majority of the free salary cap space the team currently has to address one position would not be prudent. By re-signing Golden, Big Blue would secure a proven pass-rushing talent, while allowing themselves to upgrade at other positions as well.

Golden will certainly command a decent amount, as pass rushers are extremely valuable, but he will not require over $20 million annually to sign like Clowney, Ngakoue and Barrett are anticipated to command. As a result, he should remain a higher priority for the Giants this offseason.

Proposed contract: 5-years $55 million ($11M/year)