5 high-profile NY Giants who may not return next season

3. DT Leonard Williams

Throughout his nine NFL seasons, Leonard Williams has established himself as one of the most dominant forces on the defensive line. Following a trade to the Giants in 2019, Williams has become one of the most consistent players on this defense.

Williams has taken the field in 53 games for this team. He has recorded 183 total tackles, 26 tackles for loss, 67 quarterback hits, 21 sacks, and four forced fumbles. In recent seasons, the Giants have added several young playmakers to their defensive front. This includes Dexter Lawrence, Azeez Ojulari, and Kayvon Thibodeaux. With the addition of these young players, Williams has solidified himself as the veteran of the group.

But due to his huge cap hit for next season of more than $32 million, the Giants could look to move on. If they are looking to gain as much cap space as they can, Williams could be the odd man out.

This front office may have to pay several of their best players in the coming months. Choosing to release Williams could make that easier to do. If they do choose to move on from the veteran defensive lineman, it could create yet another hole for them to fill through either the draft of free agency.

Williams has already claimed that he would potentially take a pay cut to stay. If he can reach an agreement with the team, he may return next season. But it is also possible that he has played his final down with the Giants.