Giants Draft Rumors: Shador Sanders to Browns, Trey Smith Free Agency

Giants Draft and Free Agency Rumors: Shador Sanders and Trey Smith

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, rumors are swirling about potential quarterback selections and free agency moves that could significantly impact the New York Giants. Let's break down the latest buzz surrounding Shador Sanders, the Cleveland Browns, and offensive lineman Trey Smith.

Shador Sanders and the Cleveland Browns

Recent reports suggest that Shador Sanders, son of NFL legend Deion Sanders, may be the top quarterback on the Cleveland Browns' draft board. This development has raised eyebrows and sparked discussions about the potential implications for the upcoming draft.

Sanders recently revealed on the Well Off Media YouTube channel, run by Deion Sanders Jr., that he has upcoming top 30 visits scheduled with NFL teams. Notably, his first visit is with the Cleveland Browns, followed by a meeting with the New York Giants.

The significance of these top 30 visits cannot be overstated. NFL teams are allowed to invite only 30 players to their facilities for private or group meetings, making each invitation a valuable opportunity for both the team and the prospect.

Adding fuel to the speculation, Sanders recently tweeted his appreciation for Cleveland Browns fans, sharing a video of supporters performing his signature "bust down" dance move. This interaction has led some to believe that Sanders may be warming up to the idea of joining the Browns organization.

Browns' Quarterback Situation

The Cleveland Browns find themselves in a precarious position regarding their quarterback situation. Their current starter, Deshaun Watson, is recovering from a torn Achilles tendon suffered during the regular season. To complicate matters further, Watson reportedly re-injured his Achilles about a month ago, potentially sidelining him for the entire 2025 season.

This dire situation has left the Browns with a glaring need at the quarterback position. As Nathan Zegura, a commentator for the Cleveland Browns, aptly stated, "There are no sure things in the NFL draft regardless of position, but there is one absolute sure thing in the NFL: if you don't have a quarterback, you don't have a chance."

Draft Implications

With the Browns holding the second overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the possibility of selecting Shador Sanders or another top quarterback prospect like Cam Ward becomes increasingly likely. The Tennessee Titans, who hold the first overall pick, are also in need of a quarterback, which could lead to an interesting scenario for the New York Giants.

There's a possibility that both Sanders and Ward could be off the board by the time the Giants are on the clock. This situation would force the Giants to reassess their draft strategy and potentially look at other positions of need.

Trey Smith and Free Agency

While draft rumors dominate headlines, significant free agency news has also emerged. Trey Smith, widely regarded as the top interior offensive lineman available in free agency, may be parting ways with the Kansas City Chiefs.

Chiefs Unable to Retain Smith

According to reports from Pro Football Rumors and The Washington Post, the Kansas City Chiefs may not be able to re-sign Smith due to salary cap constraints. Despite initial interest in retaining the talented guard, the situation has trended towards a potential departure.

This development presents an intriguing opportunity for teams in need of offensive line help, including the New York Giants.

Smith's Impact and Potential Fit with the Giants

Trey Smith has established himself as one of the premier guards in the NFL. During the 2024 regular season, he allowed zero sacks over 1,115 snaps, showcasing his exceptional pass protection skills.

For the New York Giants, who are in need of a starting right guard, Smith could be an ideal target in free agency. Adding a player of Smith's caliber would significantly bolster the Giants' offensive line, providing better protection for their quarterback and improving the run game.

Potential Contract and Market Value

Smith is expected to reset the guard market in NFL free agency. Last year, Robert Hunt signed with the Carolina Panthers for an average annual value of $20 million per year. It's likely that Smith and his representatives will be aiming for a similar or even higher figure.

Current top-paid guards in the NFL include:

1. Landon Dickerson - $21 million per year
2. Chris Lindstrom - $20.5 million per year
3. Quenton Nelson - $20 million per year
4. Robert Hunt - $20 million per year

Smith's next contract is expected to fall within this range, potentially surpassing these figures.

Giants' Offseason Strategy

The New York Giants find themselves at a crucial juncture this offseason. With needs at multiple positions, including quarterback and offensive line, the team's decision-makers must carefully weigh their options in both the draft and free agency.

Draft Considerations

If Shador Sanders and Cam Ward are indeed selected before the Giants' pick, the team may need to pivot their draft strategy. This could involve:

1. Selecting the best player available, regardless of position
2. Addressing another position of need, such as wide receiver or defensive line
3. Trading down to accumulate more draft capital

Free Agency Priorities

In free agency, the Giants must decide how to allocate their resources. While Trey Smith would be a significant upgrade to the offensive line, the team may also be considering other high-profile free agents, such as wide receiver Tee Higgins.

Given the importance of protecting their quarterback and establishing a strong running game, prioritizing the offensive line with a player like Smith could be the wisest investment.

Building a Formidable Offensive Line

If the Giants were to sign Trey Smith, their potential starting offensive line could look like this:

• Left Tackle: Andrew Thomas
• Left Guard: John Michael Schmitz
• Center: John Runyan
• Right Guard: Trey Smith
• Right Tackle: Evan Neal

This lineup, if it stays healthy and performs to its potential, could potentially rank among the top 10 offensive lines in the NFL. Such an improvement would be invaluable for a team potentially breaking in a rookie quarterback or looking to maximize the effectiveness of their current signal-caller.

Balancing Act: O-Line vs. Skill Positions

While the allure of adding a dynamic wide receiver like Tee Higgins is undeniable, the Giants must weigh the long-term benefits of solidifying their offensive line. A strong offensive front can:

1. Provide better protection for the quarterback, reducing the risk of injuries and sacks
2. Create more time for receivers to get open downfield
3. Improve the running game, leading to a more balanced offense
4. Allow for more complex offensive schemes and play-calling

Conclusion: A Pivotal Offseason for the Giants

As the 2025 NFL Draft and free agency period approach, the New York Giants find themselves at a crossroads. The decisions made in the coming months will have far-reaching implications for the team's future success.

Whether it's potentially missing out on top quarterback prospects like Shador Sanders and Cam Ward in the draft, or pursuing elite free agents like Trey Smith, the Giants' front office faces challenging decisions that will shape the franchise for years to come.

By prioritizing the offensive line and considering all available options in both the draft and free agency, the Giants can position themselves for success in the highly competitive NFC East and beyond. As always, Giants fans will be eagerly watching and debating every move as the team seeks to return to its winning ways in the 2025 season and beyond.

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