The start to free agency is officially wrapped up, but the NY Giants are likely to still make a move or two soon in order to bolster the roster. Cap space is currently limited, but with contract restructures on the way, Joe Schoen will have more money to bring in some quality players.
While the majority of top targets are off the board, don't sleep on the guys who are still waiting to find new homes. Schoen's already addressed some key positions, so we're hopeful that he adds some players in other areas of need before free agency is done. These five players are not only still available, but could be solid playmakers for the Giants on both sides of the ball.
5. CB Isaac Yiadom
Real Giants fans will remember when Isaac Yiadom played for Big Blue. Now, after a spectacular bounce-back season with the Saints, Yiadom is ready to hit the open market and likely has some suitors waiting to offer him a contract. Given the prior connection to New York, it makes sense that the two sides could come to an agreement during free agency.
Last season for the Saints, Yiadom racked up 31 tackles while allowing just 22 receptions on 44 targets for 289 yards and three touchdowns, earning a PFF coverage grade of 80.4. The 28-year-old DB had what appears to be a breakout season and is likely looking to capitalize off it.
Yiadom would fit pretty well with the Giants given their need for another outside corner to play alongside Deonte Banks. It's tough to judge how much Yiadom could make given the fact that he only has one truly successful season, but with the coming restructures, Schoen will definitely have money for him.
4. LB Isaiah Simmons
The Giants likely have their linebacker core set with Micah McFadden and Bobby Okereke, but having a player as versatile as Isaiah Simmons on the defense would bring a ton of value. Not only can he line up in the box, but he has experience lining up on the edge and at safety as well. This, combined with his likely cheap cost makes for something Schoen should capitalize on.
While receiving minimal snaps last season, Simmons still managed to put together an incredibly solid season. Through 17 games, Simmons racked up 46 combined tackles, one interception, and one forced fumble. Alongside this, he also earned a PFF coverage grade of 82.7, which ranked eighth among all linebackers in the NFL.
With how questionable McFadden was throughout certain moments of the 2023 season, having some insurance in the form of Simmons would be crucial. If the Giants can sign him to a team-friendly deal, everyone would benefit greatly.
3. WR Josh Reynolds
With it being announced that Isaiah Hodgins would not be tendered, the Giants could be in the market for a new outside receiver. If Schoen really wants to get a 'bang for his buck' type of guy, Josh Reynolds may be his best choice. Not only does Spotrac.com give him an estimated market value of around $7 million annually, but his playing style would be a welcomed addition to the Giants' offense.
Reynolds is a 6-3, 194-pound outside threat who is pretty darn consistent for his role. In 17 games with the Lions last season, Reynolds caught 40 passes for 608 yards and five touchdowns. Alongside this, Reynolds had a PFF player grade similar to that of Calvin Ridley, Brandin Cooks, and Tee Higgins. Yeah, not bad.
A PFF grade may not be the biggest determining factor when it comes to how good a player is, but it certainly helps paint a picture. Reynolds isn't the star receiver the Giants need, but he'll help bring some much-needed consistency to their offense. We're going to keep a close eye on him moving forward.
2. RB AJ Dillon
According to various reports, the Giants are interested in AJ Dillon after signing Devin Singletary. This makes sense, as the team could look to feature a 1-2 punch in the backfield to replace Saquon Barkley, now with the Eagles. Dillon certainly has his struggles, but perhaps a new environment could help his career.
Last season, Dillon racked up 178 carries for 613 yards and two touchdowns, averaging 3.4 yards per carry. With the Giants, it's doubtful he receives so many carries, but Dillon could serve as a short-yardage, goal-line back. In this role, Dillon could really flourish, as it's become rather clear that he isn't fit to receive a heavy workload.
Regardless of whether Dillon receives a smaller role or not, he still has the chance to be more effective in a new system while playing for a new coach. His abilities to be a power-runner, as well as a pass-catcher out of the backfield, make Dillon a pretty great fit if he can finally put it all together. He runs with force, there's no doubt about that.
1. CB Patrick Peterson
Patrick Peterson may be getting up there in age, but the eight-time Pro Bowler is still an incredibly solid corner in the NFL. This is exactly what the Giants need alongside Banks right now. Not only would this give the soon-to-be sophomore a great teammate on the outside, but Peterson could potentially teach Banks a thing or two to help his development.
The 33-year-old CB has obviously spent his fair share of time in this league matching up against some of the best receivers of all time. While he may not be the All-Pro player he once was, Peterson is still around for a reason and if Schoen really wants to bolster this secondary, he should consider bringing him in.
In 17 games with the Steelers last season, Peterson, who played at both CB and safety, allowed 31 receptions on 60 targets for 388 yards and four touchdowns, while posting two interceptions. His level of experience, versatility, and talent isn't common. It's tough to judge how much money Peterson could be demanding. However, if it's not too rich for Schoen's blood, it would be in his best interest to give the veteran a call.