Adding at least one elite pass-catcher to quarterback Daniel Jones’ arsenal is the top organizational priority for the NY Giants this offseason both in free agency and the NFL Draft.
Depending on which teams are able to use the franchise tag on their top receivers, this has the chance to be the deepest, most talented, and expensive free agent wide receiver class in recent history.
Chris Godwin, Allen Robinson, Marvin Jones headline a star-studded group of potential free agent targets who would infuse game-breaking talent into the NFL’s 31st ranked scoring offense.
However, Dallas Cowboys Hall of Famer Michael Irvin believes one name should stand above the rest on the Giants’ target board; the Detroit Lions’ Kenny Golloday.
"“They should absolutely you try to get that kid,” Irvin said. “I think he would make a huge difference and give the Giants something that they need from wide receiver position. Allen Robinson is another guy that may be coming, but a guy like Golladay would be big in New York.”"
Golladay, 27, was the Lions’ sixth-leading receiver in 2020, catching 20 passes for 338 yards and two touchdowns in five games before straining a hip flexor that ended his season back on Nov. 1.
It is entirely possible that the Lions could use the franchise tag on Golladay, a move that is even more likely if it becomes apparent that a deal can’t get done with Jones. There is already a “strong” market for Jones as free agency approaches, a league source tells GMenHQ.
However, using the tag on Golladay would cost the Lions $15.5 million against the cap, and Detroit currently sits just under $1 million over the cap.
Golladay has the size, 6-foot-4 and 214 pounds to be a dangerous red zone weapon and reliable target for contested passes as well as the speed, as illustrated by his 16.8 yards per reception average to get behind a defense.
Whether Golladay hits free agency remains to be seen, but if he does, the Giants would be wise to heed Irvin’s advice and try to sign him to a long-term deal.
Matt Lombardo is the site expert for GMenHQ, and writes Between The Hash Marks each Wednesday for FanSided. Follow Matt on Twitter: @MattLombardoNFL.