3 New York Giants free agents are most likely to sign new contracts with the organization this offseason
With the thrilling Super Bowl between the Eagles and Chiefs, the 2022 season is officially over, and Joe Schoen, the NY Giants, need to start preparing for free agency. With many important decisions awaiting Schoen, NY will have more than $44 million in cap space.
Who will ultimately return, then? There are a number of men who NY fans will want back, whether they are young players with potential, seasoned leaders, or even significant members of current Giants club.
#3. Jihad Ward, Linebacker
Jihad Ward had a remarkable season. He was initially brought in to serve as a nice depth piece, but after Azeez Ojulari and Kayvon Thibodeaux sustained injuries, he was handed a much larger role and easily had the best season of his career.
Ward accumulated 36 total tackles, seven tackles for a loss, three sacks, 23 total pressures, and one forced fumble in 17 games. Ward had always been a serviceable player and a valuable depth player for any club, but this year he showed the Giants he is more than that, and they must re-sign him for 2023.
Ward not only had his finest season yet, but he also played a significant role in the team's locker room, winning the hearts of many supporters. This season, Ward has had too many amusing moments to count, and it's obvious the team wants him to stay.
#2. Nick Gates, Center
Nick Gates recovered to play again less than a year after fracturing his leg after suffering one of the most horrific injuries the League has ever seen. There are several reasons why this comeback was amazing. Gates is not only a fantastic player for this squad, but also a fantastic leader.
Gates made his NFL debut in Week 6 against the Seahawks and had an outstanding season. His adaptability is also noteworthy. Gates was clearly not perfect, but given the circumstances of his return, he performed well enough to be retained for the following season. Retaining him won't cost much, and as he heals from his injury, he'll only get better.
Gates recorded a pass-blocking grade of 69.3 and a run-blocking grade of 59.0 in 368 offensive snaps while yielding one sack and 10 pressures. Again, it's not ideal, but Gates' situation will only get better.
#1. Daniel Jones, Quarterback
While some fans are concerned about whether or not Daniel Jones will return in light of recent speculations regarding what he would expect this summer, we think it's quite improbable that Schoen won't work something out with him.
Jones ran the ball 120 times for 708 yards and seven touchdowns while completing 67.2 percent of his passes for 3,205 yards, 15 touchdowns, and five interceptions in 16 games this past season. This season, Jones was among the top quarterbacks with a dual threat ability. His extension is merited.
In addition to all of this, Jones led the NY Giants to their first postseason appearance since 2016 and consistently performed well in pivotal contests. Jones was excellent for the G-Men, and his box score statistics just don't do him justice.
Many New York fans are worried about the possibility that Jones could want $35–37 million every season. Yet given how the market is set up, Schoen might have a hard time convincing him to accept something for much less. In any case, expect Danny Dimes to resolve the contract situation and lead this team back to the playoffs the following winter.
