New York Giants: 5 Free Agents Who Could Still Help the Giants

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The Giants will be contenders in the NFC—that's not in question—but the increasing number of injuries this preseason is certainly worrisome, and is putting them in a position where they may need to add some additional talent.

Surprisingly, there are still a lot of excellent players still on the market. Perhaps even more surprising, five that could significantly improve the Giants in 2011.

5. Antwaan Randle El

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There’s no question that Antwaan Randle El has lost significant speed over the past few seasons since his heyday with the Steelers.

However, the Giants haven’t had a reliable kick returner in years.

Randle El would be an extremely cost-efficient addition and if nothing else, he could light a fire under guys like Domenik Hixon. He would improve the Giants return game even if he doesn't win the position.

4. Dre Bly

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Dre Bly hasn’t played since 2009, but he remains one of the better veteran corners on the market. The Giant’s need for a corner is no secret, and considering there are very few viable options, they may need to nab the veteran in the near future.

Though he's 34, Bly spent significant time working out with NFL teams this offseason. Coming off the bench, he could keep the Giant’s young secondary fresh, and would provide much-needed depth to a unit ravaged by injuries.

3. Terrell Owens

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There’s no question that Terrell Owens will return to the NFL this season. Acting can always wait.

He’s currently the best free agent wide receiver available and could really help the Giants further develop their young talented receiviers. Guys like Hakeem Nicks and Mario Manningham could learn from the six-time pro-bowler. Owens would also open up a lot of space for the young receivers and would make things even easier on Eli Manning.

Victor Cruz is a fan favorite to take over in the slot following the departure of Steve Smith. However, the addition of Owens would undeniably add a needed dose of quality to one of the league’s youngest receiving corps.  

2. Lofa Tatupu

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The Giants front office emphasized their confidence in their linebacking corps by not making a move this offseason.

However, the current group is still young and lacks the big-name leader and playmaker that Antonio Pierce once was.

Tatupu could be that guy.

Tatupu would be an immediately leader on defense and would help the young Jonathan Goff develop into the Pro-Bowl linebacker that the Giant’s front office thinks he can be. 

1. Kelvin Hayden

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The former second round pick is coming off of a neck injury, but the Giants are in desperate need of a cornerback.

They could still audition Hayden, following the injury to Terrell Thomas. Even though there have been reports that Hayden doesn't want to sign to a veteran minimum. He remains the best corner on the market.

Like Bly, Hayden would add depth to the Giant’s depleted secondary. What separates him from the other available corners is his age. Only 28, he could stick around for a while.

 

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