The New York Giants have had a rough stretch over the past decade, with winning seasons feeling like a distant memory. At the heart of their struggles has been a mix of questionable roster management and puzzling decision-making.
General Manager Joe Schoen remains at the helm, despite a 22-45-1 record over the last four seasons. Now, with more than 25 players set to hit free agency, Schoen faces a critical offseason. While some players may not be worth retaining, there are a few key figures he simply can't afford to lose.
Giants fans are well-acquainted with the big names like Jermaine Eluemunor, Wan’Dale Robinson, and Cor’Dale Flott. However, sometimes securing a crucial depth piece is just as vital as keeping the stars. Fifth-year safety Dane Belton is one such piece that Schoen should prioritize.
According to The Athletic's Dan Duggan, Belton is a player that winning organizations make sure to re-sign. Drafted in the fourth round in 2022, Belton has become an exceptional special teams player and a reliable fill-in at safety.
Heading into free agency, the Giants have around $5 million in cap space before any roster moves. This number is expected to rise with the usual offseason adjustments, but creativity will be key in filling out the roster.
Belton's market value varies, with Spotrac projecting him at $6.2 million annually, while Over the Cap estimates around $2.6 million. The likely figure is closer to the lower end, given his role as a special teams standout rather than a starting safety. This could work in the Giants' favor.
Letting Belton walk would be a mistake. As Duggan pointed out, he embodies the kind of player that successful teams retain.
After watching talents like Julian Love, Xavier McKinney, Daniel Jones, and Saquon Barkley leave and thrive elsewhere, it’s time for the Giants to rethink their strategy. Ensuring that key contributors remain could be the difference in getting the team back on track.
Not every offseason move needs to be a blockbuster. Sometimes, it's those under-the-radar signings that make all the difference in building a winning team.