In need of additional inside linebackers, the New York Giants are expected to sign Benardrick McKinney to their practice squad once he passes a physical.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport was the first to report the pending transaction.
The #Giants are expected to sign former #Texans and #Dolphins LB Benardrick McKinney to their practice squad upon passing a physical, source said, with the plan to quickly promote him when he gets acclimated. He’s had interest from several teams but was looking for the right fit.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 18, 2021
With defensive captain Blake Martinez (knee) out for the season and Tae Crowder not playing particularly well at the position, the Giants certainly need some reinforcements.
Although McKinney will initially land on the practice squad, it’s unlikely he’ll remain there for any length a time.
The 28-year-old McKinney was originally a second-round pick of the Houston Texans in 2015. After six years with the team, he was traded to the Miami Dolphins in a swap that included a 2021 seventh-round pick in exchange for defensive end Shaq Lawson and a 2021 sixth-round pick.
Miami eventually released McKinney on August 31 as a part of final cuts.
In 80 career games (77 starts), the 6-foot-4, 257-pound McKinney has recorded 530 tackles (314 solo, 35 for a loss), 30 QB hits, 11.5 sacks, one interception, 14 passes defensed, four forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.
McKinney was named Second Team All-Pro in 2016 and to the Pro Bowl in 2018.
