New York Giants linebacker Olivier Vernon may have finished the 2018 season on a high note, earning a spot in the Pro Bowl and receiving high marks from Pro Football Focus, but his tenure in East Rutherford may have reached its end, nonetheless.
Mike Garafolo of NFL Network reports the Giants have discussed the possibility of trading Vernon, while other outlets report that they’ve already fielded some calls.
Vernon, who was a prized free agent acquisition just a few years ago, has dealt with a consistent barrage of injuries after having appeared in every single game of his career prior to joining the Giants. He’s also failed to live up to his massive contract, which will account for $19.5 million against the cap in 2019.
If the Giants were to trade or release Vernon prior to June 1, they would absorb a dead cap hit of $8 million in 2019, saving a total of $11.5 million. However, if they were to trade or release Vernon post-June 1, the dead cap hit would account for just $4 million with a total savings of $15.5 million.
Unless Vernon is suddenly willing to take a substantial cap hit, it’s safe to say he’ll soon be on his way out of New York.
