Key Takeaways:
– The New York Giants currently hold the least cap space in the league, with just over $1.126, but could generate up to $47 million without roster cuts or trades.
– General Manager Joe Schoen could achieve this through restructuring veteran contracts, with left tackle Andrew Thomas being a potential candidate.
– Other candidates for restructure include Brian Burns, Bobby Okereke, and Dexter Lawrence, while a restructuring of Daniel Jones’ contract seems unlikely.
– Darren Waller’s potential retirement could also influence the team’s financial decisions, with his departure possibly saving the Giants $11.625 million.
As the Organized Team Activities picks up steam, the New York Giants sit at the bottom of the league with a mere $1.126 in cap space. However, there may be light at the end of the tunnel as NYG General Manager Joe Schoen could potentially free up as much as $47 million through the restructuring of veteran contracts.
The Potential Benefits Of Contract Restructuring
The Athletic’s Dan Duggan highlighted suitable candidates for contract restructuring, namely Andrew Thomas, Brian Burns, Bobby Okereke, and Dexter Lawrence, which could result in substantial cap savings. However, Daniel Jones’ contract, although an attractive source, would likely not be restructured due to the prospect of incurring more future dead money.
This restructuring process does not come without its risks. Besides deferring financial obligations to the future, it could tie the franchise to a player long-term and potentially waste a chance to terminate a deal. The move could be especially detrimental when it comes to Jones, where having an additional $23 million in 2024 might not outweigh the binding future constraints.
The Impact of Darren Waller’s Potential Retirement
Waller’s decision regarding retirement could be a significant factor affecting the Giant’s financial decisions. Should Waller retire post-June 1 or be released, it would bring about an impressive $11.625 million savings. While the NYG waits for Waller’s decision, Bleacher Report’s Kris Knox has listed Jones and Thomas as other potential options for contract restructuring to create salary space.
On the other hand, Schoen might need to hold off on other contract negotiations and restructures depending on Waller’s final decision. If Waller decides to stay, Schoen could have to restructure other contracts to balance the financial deficit.
Andrew Thomas – The Most Attractive Option
As for Jones’ contract, Knox pointed out that its restructuring may have limited appeal due to Jones’ inconsistent performance. However, left tackle Andrew Thomas appears a highly favorable wholesale option for contract restructuring. Thomas has a consistent performance track record and is already contracted through 2029, making a restructure a more plausible option.
Ultimately, Schoen has key decisions to make in the coming months in order to create salary space for the Giants. With notable variables such as Waller’s potential retirement and the prospect of restructuring certain key contracts, it’s evident that the Giants have avenues to explore that could see them generating significant cap space.