Getty Former Steelers CB Joe Haden contests a pass against the Giants.
With the offseason finally winding down, the New York Giants roster still has several weak spots — including in the secondary and at tight end — that should be addressed, according to one writer.
Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox called on the Giants to consider adding veteran tight end Jared Cook and cornerback Joe Haden as “budget-friendly options” for a team with only $8.4 million in cap space.
In the secondary, the offseason losses of safeties Logan Ryan and Jabrill Peppers and cornerback James Bradberry mean the Giants will be forced to lean on young players. Likewise, at tight end, a rookie — fourth-round pick Daniel Bellinger is — projected to be their TE1.
“Strengthening a few key positions could aid New York’s quest to find out what it has at other spots,” Knox wrote on July 12.
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Haden Could Bring Added Leadership to Secondary
At the moment, the secondary is headlined by Adoree’ Jackson and Xavier McKinney. Both players have proved to be reliable defenders, but there is a drop-off in production, with nearly everyone else either unproven or inexperienced.
When looking at Haden, 33, there are multiple reasons he could be a good fit.
“New York is expected to rely heavily on young corners like second-year man Aaron Robinson and rookie third-round pick Cordale Flott. Having a seasoned vet like Haden in a leadership role would aid their development,” Knox wrote.
Since entering the NFL as the No. 7 overall pick in 2010, he has been a premier talent, with three Pro Bowl selections to show for. He has recorded 615 total tackles, 29 interceptions, seven forced fumbles and 14 tackles for loss in 158 career games.
While he is entering year 13, Haden could still find a way to contribute to this team. Knox noted that Haden could help from a veteran standpoint, even if he is just in a leadership role. Just having Haden in the room with young players could help them learn the game faster.
Knox: Cook a ‘Reliable Outlet Option’ for Daniel Jones
The tight end group, though not as inexperienced, faces its own issues.
Bellinger was never a huge threat in the passing game at San Diego State, catching 68 passes for 771 yards and five total touchdowns. After Bellinger, the Giants have Ricky Seals-Jones and Jordan Akins, two players with experience but are not much of a receiving threat. The two have combined for 204 receptions, 2,304 receiving yards, and 13 touchdowns in 112 career games.
Knox wrote that Cook could be the safety blanket that quarterback Daniel Jones may need to succeed.
“Having a capable and reliable outlet option can work wonders for a young signal-caller. Right now, though, New York has only a pair of serviceable veterans in Ricky Seals-Jones and Jordan Akins plus rookie fourth-round pick Daniel Bellinger at the top of the depth chart,” wrote Knox.
Even as he enters year 14 of his career, Cook seems to still have some good football left in the tank. The 35-year-old tight end played well in his lone season with the Los Angeles Chargers in 2021, finishing with 48 receptions, 564 receiving yards and 4 touchdowns across 16 games.
Cook could also make his presence felt in what is considered by many to be Jones’ “make or break” year.