The New York Giants and defensive lineman Leonard Williams have yet to come to an agreement on a long-term deal, but they avoided a potential “distraction” on Wednesday with the veteran agreeing to sign his franchise tag tender.
By signing the franchise tender, Williams will be guaranteed a base salary of $16.1 million in 2020, pending an agreement on a new contract.
The Giants and Williams now have until July 15 to negotiate a new deal or have the window of opportunity closed until the conclusion of the upcoming season.
The Giants acquired Williams from the New York Jets in exchange for multiple draft picks midway through the 2019 season. General manager Dave Gettleman was heavily criticized for the trade, but assured that Williams would be more than a half-season rental.
