Giants eyeing $11.6 million in cap savings via veteran tight end’s departure
The New York Giants have exercised patience with tight end Darren Waller as he navigates a personal issue that has him thinking about taking a retirement. Waller raised doubts about his NFL future a few months back. Despite having just dropped a new mixtape on social media, he hasn’t made a decision about his future in music.
Despite missing a large amount of the previous season due to injuries, Waller caught 72 passes for 552 yards and one touchdown with a 72.2% completion percentage. Waller’s health is still a major concern for the Giants at age 31, given his past injury history, and the possibility of earning $11.6 million via a post-June 1st cut or retirement.
Giants’ Tight End Strategy and Cap Space Management
Anticipating Waller’s possible departure, the Giants have already adjusted their team cap space to $1 million. This strategic financial planning positions them to save a substantial amount of money, which could be redirected to address needs in the secondary or other areas as the season progresses.
The Giants want to use rookie Theo Johnson and Daniel Bellinger at tight end in the event that Waller leaves. It is anticipated that Bellinger, who has spent the last two years mainly as a blocker, would play a bigger part in the receiving game.
Johnson, however, is young and still developing despite having a physique akin to Jimmy Graham’s and receiving prowess. The Giants are eager to give him lots of playing time so they can hasten his growth and successfully incorporate him into their offensive scheme.
The Giants will have almost $13 million in salary cap space available should Waller want to retire from football, giving them the financial flexibility to handle any unforeseen team requirements.
