It’s no secret the New York Giants will be in the market for a top veteran cornerback when NFL free agency opens on March 18. General manager Dave Gettleman will be putting on a full court press to find that player to solidify the Giants’ long secondary.
It will be a player they both trust and need. In the case of Dallas Cowboys cornerback Byron Jones, he covers both categories having played in a Pro Bowl and under Jason Garrett, the Giants’ new offensive coordinator in Dallas.
Byron Jones should be the top corner available in free agency, and CBS Sports contributor Joel Corry, a former agent and salary cap expert, anticipates he’ll be one of the top earners outside of the QB position — so much so that the 27-year-old defensive back is not only likely to price his way out of Dallas but become the NFL’s new highest-paid DB.
“Anything under $16 million per year with fewer than $50 million in overall guarantees would be surprising,” Corry said. “I doubt he’s back in Dallas. I’ve thought his long-term fate with the Cowboys was sealed when (right tackle) La’el Collins signed a contract extension at the end of last preseason.”
The Giants currently have $61 million in available cap space and should have some more when they cut a few more veterans int he coming weeks.
Jones played his college ball at Connecticut and his age (27) is perfect if the Giants should come wielding a five-year deal.
