This offseason, the New York Giants reloaded their receiving corps. They signed Parris Campbell away from Indianapolis. Jalin Hyatt is a rookie that brings speed to an offense lacking of it. Big Blue already have guys like Darius Slayton and Isaiah Hodgins set to start on the outside. So, should the Giants pursue Mike Evans?
A deadline for an extension is set for September 9th. He signed a five-year, $82.5 million extension in 2018, and this year is the final season of the contract.
He Wants To Stay In Tampa Bay?
Represented by a company called Day 1 Sports and Entertainment, Evans and his team released a statement talking about Evans wanting “the next phase of his career to be with an organization who wants him and wants him to help win a Super Bowl.” It continues to talk about September 9th being the deadline for a new contract.
According to Evans’ agent Deryk Gilmore, the Buccaneers don’t want to pay two receivers more than $20 million a year. Teammate Chris Godwin is already on a three-year deal worth $60 million. This leaves Evans out to dry.
Evans wants to remain a Buccaneer for life. But, he wants a fair deal that reflects his ability.
Big Blue Is The Best Place For Him
As the statement said, the Pro Bowl wideout wants the next part of his career to be with a team that wants him to help win a Super Bowl and appreciate him. What better team fits that criteria other than the New York Football Giants.
Even with all the guys at wide receiver, there’s no one on the team that is even close to Evans’ resume. Standing at 6’5”, he would be the tallest receiver New York has had in years. He has made the Pro Bowl four times and has a Super Bowl ring. The Giants’ receiving room combined? None of those accolades.
Most importantly, Evans would be a big and dependable target for Daniel Jones to throw to. The Giants already added Darren Waller this offseason. But, imagine having to deal with both of these guys? Defense would need all the luck they can get.
Head coach Brian Daboll and general manager Joe Schoen have built a great culture since their arrival last year. It’s a team that doesn’t have any drama around them. They’re focused on winning and team-building. Let’s be honest: Isaiah Simmons was ecstatic when New York traded for him. Have you seen what’s going on in Arizona?
What Will It Take To Bring Evans In?
As good as Evans is, let’s face the facts. He’s 30 years old, so he is not worth a first or second-round pick. But, could two mid-round picks get the job done?
At most, if I am Joe Schoen, I am giving up a 2024 fourth-round pick and a 2025 third-round pick. Even two fourth-round picks could do the trick.
Numbers-wise, it could be an issue too. Mike Evans has a cap hit of $23.68 million this year. With only $5.1 million in cap space, the Giants would have to work some things around to get it done. An extension + contract restructuring would possibly be needed.
Evans’ contract is expiring after all, so the Giants could wait until next offseason to sign him in free agency. But, if the Giants want to make a Super Bowl run this year (and feel confident about doing so), trading for Mike Evans is not a bad idea at all.
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