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New York Giants Rumors: Johnathan Hankins 50/50 To Return

By Kenneth Teape

Oct 9, 2016; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) looks to pass while getting pressure from New York Giants defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins (95) in the third quarter at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 9, 2016; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) looks to pass while getting pressure from New York Giants defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins (95) in the third quarter at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports /
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New York Giants Rumors: Defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins is still a free agent and ESPN’s Jordan Raanan believes it’s a 50/50 shot that he returns to the Giants.

New York Giants rumors continue to pop up despite the Giants having very little to spend in free agency. The latest rumor pertains to free agent, Johnathan Hankins.

At the onset of free agency, it seemed unlikely the Giants would be able to re-sign their defensive tackle. Placing the franchise tag on Jason Pierre-Paul took up about half of the Giants available funds. With other holes to fill, keeping Hankins on a long-term deal seemed unlikely.

Now, over two weeks into free agency, Hankins still remains on the free agent market. He has been unable to find a long-term deal, which is surprising. He won’t be 25 until later this month, so he has youth on his side. Many thought Hankins would have no problem landing a deal, but that has not come to fruition.

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With Pierre-Paul and the Giants agreeing to a long-term deal, New York has opened up some money to spend; approximately $11 million according to ESPN New York’s Jordan Raanan. The Giants have a few other holes left to fill, such as running back and linebacker, but could they bring back Hankins still?

Raanan believes there is a chance. The longer Hankins remains on the open market, the better the Giants chances become of retaining him. During his mailbag on ESPN, Raanan discussed Hankins. He believes that Hankins has a 50/50 shot right now to return to the Giants.

As Raanan notes, the market for Hankins has been ice cold and is unlikely to heat up out of nowhere. A lot of the money available in free agency has been spent, so Hankins landing the $10+ million deal he seeks is unlikely.

At this point in time, it would probably be best for Hankins to return to the Giants. 19 defensive tackles have already signed deals this season so Hankins is unlikely to find many suitors; the Miami Dolphins were the only other team he was linked to in any capacity.

With no market, Hankins coming back to the Giants on a one-year deal makes sense. He is coming off a down season, recording his worst Pro Football Focus grade of his career. Coming back on a one-year deal can help Hankins improve his value in what looks like a potentially dominant defensive front.

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It would make a lot of sense for Hankins to return to the Giants. The Giants could also use him, as they do not have an immediate replacement on the roster. A reunion between the two parties could be the best outcome for both sides.

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