The New York Giants are setting the stage for a transformative offseason, with the hiring of future Hall of Famer John Harbaugh as head coach already making waves. Now, the spotlight turns to general manager Joe Schoen, who faces the challenge of building a roster that matches the high expectations.
The Giants are closer to contention than many realize. A few strategic moves in free agency and the draft could thrust them into the NFC East conversation sooner than anticipated.
Last season highlighted the need for franchise quarterback Jaxson Dart to have reliable weapons if he's to reach his potential as a game-changer under Harbaugh's leadership. However, not every high-profile acquisition guarantees success.
The receiver position is a focal point, with several notable names potentially hitting the open market. Tyreek Hill, Alec Pierce, Mike Evans, Deebo Samuel, Hollywood Brown, and Jauan Jennings are among the intriguing options.
Yet, Jauan Jennings presents a potential $68 million dilemma. Despite his talent, Bleacher Report’s Gary Davenport advises caution, labeling Jennings as a potential offseason bust:
"Jennings is a good player. He set a career high this past season with nine touchdown catches.
But in five seasons, Jennings has topped 75 catches only once and has never reached 1,000 receiving yards. Plus, he's missed multiple games in each of the past three seasons."
These stats raise questions about whether Jennings is worth a $22 million annual salary.
Previously, the Giants showed interest in Jennings, reportedly inquiring about him at last year's trade deadline. However, his current market value, projected by Spotrac to be a three-year, $68 million deal, seems steep given his production over five years in the league.
Jennings' career numbers resemble those of a solid WR3 rather than a WR1, which his valuation suggests:
His five-year NFL totals don't justify the $22 million per season price tag. For comparison, the Giants' own free agent, Wan'Dale Robinson, is valued at $71 million over four years, with a $17 million average annual value. Robinson's averages are stronger across the board.
While Jennings is a 6-foot-3 target known for his reliable hands and ability to make clutch plays, it's hard to justify such a hefty investment in a relatively unproven receiver, especially with other positions needing attention.
The Giants need reinforcements at receiver, but not at that price. If the market demands such a figure, Schoen’s decision should be straightforward: look elsewhere.