The New York Giants signed former San Francisco 49ers special teamer Richie James on Friday, adding affordable depth
The New York Giants have signed former San Francisco 49ers wide receiver and return specialist Richie James on Friday morning, sources confirm to FanSided.
Mike Garafolo of the NFL Network was first to report James’ signing.
The #Giants agreed to terms with former #49ers WR/returner Richie James Jr. on a one-year deal, source says. Former seventh-round pick missed last season with a knee injury after grabbing a career-high 23 catches in 2020.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) March 25, 2022
How Richie James’ signing fits New York Giants’ offseason plan
James‘ deal is a one-year contract that comes in at approximately $1 million, and not only adds a veteran presence to the wide receiver room but could significantly upgrade the Giants’ return game, as well.
Friday’s signing continues general manager Joe Schoen’s trend this offseason of shopping the free agent bargain bin to fill out the roster, in an effort to preserve spending flexibility in 2023 and beyond.
Missing last season due to a knee injury suffered last August, James previously caught 38 passes for 689 yards and three touchdowns, through the first 40 games of his career.
While it’s entirely possible that James gets on the field, cracking the Giants‘ receiver depth chart somewhere behind Kenny Golladay, Kadarius Toney, and Sterling Shepard, more likely the former 49er will emerge as a favorite to fill the void at punt returner and on kickoffs.