The majority of the chatter surrounding the NY Giants is regarding what general manager Joe Schoen will do in the NFL Draft. However, longtime wideout Darius Slayton made headlines when it was reported he's absent from the voluntary offseason program because he wants an extension.
Entering the final season of his two-year deal, the 27-year-old receiver is tied for being the longest-tenured Giant on the active roster. However, his time in royal blue might be coming to a close. There have been rumors that Slayton could be a draft-day trade candidate for NY, and recent comments from Schoen hinted the front office has no intentions to extend him.
Slayton has been far from perfect for NY since landing in East Rutherford in 2019, struggling with dropped passes among other things. Given his current contract extension drama, some Big Blue fans believe offloading him elsewhere is the most uncomplicated solution, but we think he should only be dealt for the value he deserves.
GM Joe Schoen said he “loves Darius.” He understands where he’s coming from. But the Giants “haven’t had any conversations” about extending Slayton at this time. https://t.co/nEbHzlzSNA
— Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan) April 18, 2024
The NY Giants should only trade Darius Slayton at the right price
A third or fourth-round draft pick for Slayton feels like a reasonable asking price. The 6-1 speedster has totaled 220 receptions, 3,324 yards, and 19 touchdowns in the NFL, serving as a dangerous downfield threat. His durability is also an asset, as he has missed just seven games in his first five seasons.
Despite coming off a season with 50 catches and a career-high 770 yards, Slayton does not have much leverage in this situation. The Giants would save $3.8 million by trading him, money they could use to sign rookie contracts. However, Slayton becomes even more expendable if Schoen decides to choose a WR1 with the No. 6 overall pick, such as Marvin Harrison Jr., Rome Odunze, or Malik Nabers. He will likely realize that playing hard-to-get isn't the best option for him in the long run.
Many Giants supporters want Wan'Dale Robinson and Jalin Hyatt to lead the receiving group next season. While they both showed potential in 2023, they have not proven they can be the top targets in an offense. Even if his role is slightly reduced, Slayton can still provide value for NY as a seasoned veteran who can catch deep balls from time to time.
Come draft day, organizations will be calling about deals for Slayton. However, they should only entertain them as long as the deal aligns with NY's desired compensation. Regardless of his mishaps, Slayton has been a reliable option in the Giants' often-injured WRs room and should be held onto if other teams are trying to lowball Schoen amid his contract fiasco.