With the 2023 NFL Draft almost here, the NY Giants are going to have some tough decisions on the way. Obviously, the Giants need as many bodies as they can for training camp and the preseason, but we could still see some changes be made prior to then.
At the time of this writing, the Giants have around $3.4 million in cap space, meaning they will need to clear up more in order to have enough money to pay a full rookie class. This could potentially result in some players being moved or released following the draft. Whether it be due to their cap hit, lack of production, or to make room for a rookie, these players could have their time in New York cut short:
4. RB Gary Brightwell
While Gary Brightwell has certainly shown some flashes in recent seasons, it would not surprise us to see him be released if the NY Giants opt to select a running back at some point in the draft. Brightwell would likely be brought back to the practice squad, but a release is more likely than you'd think.
The odds of Joe Schoen drafting a running back in rounds 3-7 of this year's draft are quite high. Not only is Saquon Barkley on an expiring contract, but the Giants as a whole could use some better depth at the position.
Brightwell is solid, don't get us wrong, but it's questionable to say he's shown enough to be on the roster over a potential rookie, especially in such a deep RB class. Through two seasons, Brightwell has run the ball 32 times for 145 yards and one touchdown, averaging 4.5 yards per carry.
Obviously, Brightwell hasn't gotten many opportunities, but releasing him could save the Giants anywhere from $800-900,000 depending on when they opt to cut the 24-year-old RB. Another candidate for release instead of Brightwell is Matt Breida, but considering the connections and how solid he was last season, this is rather unlikely.