5 first-year New York Giants who may not return in 2023
The 2022 New York Giants fooled everyone, but now the real work begins for the front office. Outside of Daniel Jones and Saquon Barkley, there are still many other players and contracts that this team must handle.
Depending on how the Giants approach the offseason, their roster could look drastically different come the start of next fall.
This includes several first-year Giants who may not be back for the 2023 campaign. In this piece, we take a look at five first-year players who could be on their way out:
#5. Matt Breida, Running back
In his one season with the Giants, running back Matt Breida stepped in as the team’s running back 2. But with Barkley running at a high level, and able to stay healthy, he struggled to earn playing time.
Along with this, second-year running back Gary Brightwell also carved out a spot in the offense.
Breida finished the regular season, recording just 54 carries for 220 rushing yards and one touchdown. Through the air, he added 20 receptions for 118 receiving yards.
Breida struggled to make an impact in the Giants ground game this past season.
And the running back position will already be a point of emphasis for this team in the offseason.
#4. Jon Feliciano, Guard
The Giants offensive line was a point of emphasis last offseason. In addition to drafting right tackle Evan Neal, they added two veterans to the interior. This came with the signings of guard Mark Glowinski and center/guard Jon Feliciano.
Feliciano was given a one-year contract worth $3.25 million, but he is now set to enter free agency once again, and could possibly have played his final game with the Giants. In his first season with NY, Feliciano experienced both highs and lows. At times, he was arguably the weakest point on the offensive line. But in other games, he was a driving force who single-handedly created big plays. Over the course of the season, Feliciano was reliable. But at 30 years old, the Giants could look to find a younger option, potentially through the draft.
#3. Justin Ellis, Defensive Tackle
The Giants brought in veteran defensive tackle Justin Ellis last season on a one-year deal worth $1.1 million. While he took the field in all 17 regular season games, and both postseason games, he may have played his final down with the team.
At 32 years old, and just finishing what was his ninth NFL season, Ellis played well.
He finished the regular season recording 22 total tackles, two tackles for loss, one quarterback hit, and one sack while earning four total starts. In the two playoffs games, he played 15 total snaps and recorded one tackle. The Giants defensive front is arguably the past group of this team.
#2. Jihad Ward, Pass-rusher
In his lone season with the New York Giants, Ward was a key playmaker along the defensive front. When Azeez Ojulari missed time with injury, Ward stepped into his role. He finished the regular season playing in all 17 games while earning 11 total starts. He recorded 43 total tackles, seven tackles for loss, 13 quarterback hits, three sacks, two forced fumbles, and four defended passes.
Ward played the best football of his career in 2022. He also seemed to have built a strong connection within the Giants organization. This could very well lead to the two sides reaching a new deal, and this defense would welcome his return. Fans love to have him back, but the Giants may not be able to afford him.
#1. Richie James, Wide receiver
When the Giants added Richie James prior to last season, they were looking for wide receiver depth and a proven return man. With injuries striking the return room, James rose up the depth chart. He finished the season recording career-highs in every receiving category.
In total, he recorded 57 receptions for 569 receiving yards and four receiving touchdowns on 70 total targets. While James was a go-to option for Jones through the air, he likely has played his last down with the team. At times, he struggled on offense.
When Wan’Dale Robinson returns from his torn ACL, that will once again be his spot on the offense. Drops were an issue for James, and his two fumbles against the Seahawks on special teams were terrible to see.
