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Start for freeThe New York Giants' Free Agency Needs
The first wave of NFL free agency has passed, but there are still quality players available. With the New York Giants having significant needs at crucial positions, let's examine five players General Manager Joe Schoen should target as we enter the second phase of free agency.
1. Keenan Allen - Wide Receiver
The Giants' offense struggled mightily in 2024, averaging just 16.1 points per game. Adding a proven slot receiver like Keenan Allen could provide an immediate boost.
While Allen may be past his prime at 32 years old, he remains one of the NFL's premier route runners. His ability to win in the slot and provide a reliable target would be invaluable, especially if the Giants draft a rookie quarterback.
In 2024 with the Chicago Bears, Allen recorded 70 catches for 744 yards and 7 touchdowns. Though not his best statistical season, he would instantly become the Giants' second-best receiver behind Malik Nabers.
Allen's 6'2" frame and large catch radius make him an ideal safety valve for a young quarterback. His veteran presence and ability to separate on option routes could be crucial for the Giants' offense.
Other Wide Receiver Options
While Allen is the top choice, other free agent receivers the Giants could consider include:
- Stefon Diggs
- Amari Cooper
- Brandon Cooks
- Tyler Boyd
- DJ Chark
- Devin Duvernay
2. Andre James - Center
Strengthening the interior offensive line should be a priority for the Giants. Andre James, who has been the Las Vegas Raiders' starting center for the past few seasons, could be an excellent addition.
James played his best football under current Giants offensive line coach Carmen Bricillo in 2023. That season, James posted impressive Pro Football Focus grades:
- Overall grade: 74.6
- Pass blocking grade: 71.2
- Run blocking grade: 75.0
He allowed just 4 sacks and 17 pressures in 16 games.
While John Michael Schmitz is entering his third NFL season, he has yet to live up to expectations. Bringing in James would provide valuable competition and depth. James' versatility (he played tackle in college) is an added bonus.
Other Interior Offensive Line Options
- David Andrews
- Teven Jenkins
- Brandon Scherff
- Dalton Risner
- Shaq Mason
- Garrett Bradbury
3. Von Miller - Edge Rusher
Adding depth to the pass rush is always beneficial, and Von Miller could be an intriguing option for the Giants. At 36 years old, Miller may not be the dominant force he once was, but he can still contribute while serving as a mentor to younger players like Kayvon Thibodeaux.
In 2024, Miller recorded 6 sacks and 8 quarterback hits in 13 games for the Buffalo Bills. While he may not reach double-digit sacks anymore, his experience and leadership could be invaluable to a young Giants team.
Miller's championship pedigree (Super Bowl victories with the Broncos and Rams) would bring a winning mentality to a roster lacking in that department. His influence could be particularly beneficial for Thibodeaux as the Giants weigh a potential contract extension.
Other Edge Rusher Options
The market for quality edge rushers has thinned considerably, but some remaining options include:
- Za'Darius Smith
- Matthew Judon
- Emmanuel Ogbah
- Preston Smith
- Carl Lawson
- Lorenzo Carter
4. Tyler Conklin - Tight End
Adding depth and competition at the tight end position could benefit the Giants' offense. Tyler Conklin, a 6'3", 250-pound tight end, has been a reliable target throughout his career.
Conklin's stats over the past two seasons:
- 2024: 4 touchdowns, 449 yards
- 2023: 61 receptions, 621 yards
At 29 years old, Conklin still has plenty of good football ahead of him. He's missed just one game in the last four seasons, demonstrating his durability.
Bringing in Conklin would create a solid tight end trio alongside Theo Johnson and Daniel Bellinger. His receiving skills and reliability could make him a valuable safety valve for whoever is under center for the Giants in 2025.
Other Tight End Options
- Gerald Everett
- Mo Alie-Cox
- Jordan Akins
- Hayden Hurst
- C.J. Uzomah
- Marcedes Lewis
- Eric Saubert
5. Julian Blackmon - Safety
Despite signing Javon Holland in free agency, the Giants could benefit from adding another safety to their secondary. Julian Blackmon would be an excellent addition to bolster the position group.
Blackmon, 26, is a versatile defensive back capable of playing single-high safety in Cover 1 or Cover 3 schemes, as well as in two-high looks. He can even match up against tight ends in the slot when needed.
Key attributes:
- Versatility to play multiple safety positions
- Good coverage skills
- Ability to play single-high or split-safety roles
- Durability (played 45 games over the past three seasons)
Pairing Blackmon with Holland and Xavier McKinney would give new defensive coordinator Shane Bowen multiple chess pieces to work with in the secondary.
Other Safety Options
- Justin Simmons
- Rayshawn Jenkins
- Vonn Bell
- Chuck Clark
- Jordan Fuller
- Marcus Maye
- Quandre Diggs
Conclusion
The New York Giants still have work to do to improve their roster for the 2025 season. By targeting these five free agents - Keenan Allen, Andre James, Von Miller, Tyler Conklin, and Julian Blackmon - they could address key needs and add valuable depth across multiple position groups.
General Manager Joe Schoen must be strategic with the team's remaining cap space, but these signings could significantly boost the Giants' chances of competing in the NFC East. As the second wave of free agency unfolds, keep an eye on these players and how they might fit into the Giants' plans for 2025 and beyond.
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