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New York Giants Rumors: Contract Being Worked With Jason Pierre-Paul?

By Kenneth Teape

Nov 8, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA; New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul (90) waves to a fan during the second half against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. New York Giants defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 32-18. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 8, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA; New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul (90) waves to a fan during the second half against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. New York Giants defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 32-18. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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New York Giants Rumors: After rumors swirled that the Giants were ready to let Jason Pierre-Paul leave as a free agent, could they actually be working to bring him back?

The New York Giants had another disappointing season in 2015, finishing under .500 and missing the postseason for the fourth consecutive season. The struggles resulted in Tom Coughlin stepping down as head coach, with Ben McAdoo taking over. The biggest problem for the Giants’ struggles last season was injuries and not having the depth and talent to make up for them.

Armed with close to $60 million in cap space this offseason based off of salary cap projections, the Giants have a chance to make a big splash in free agency and add some serious talent to their roster. They also have some free agents of their own that they could think about retaining, with defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul headlining that list.

At this time last year, there was no doubt that Pierre-Paul would be in the market for a monster contract. He was a premier pass rusher with strong performances in stopping the run as well. Pierre-Paul looked to be in the upper echelon of defensive ends, and was looking to get paid like one. The Giants placed the franchise tag on him to ensure he didn’t hit the open market and keep him in Big Blue for at least one more season.

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But, then Pierre-Paul had a fireworks incident on the Fourth of July, severely damaging his right hand. It caused him to miss the first half of the 2015 season, as he did not have much functionality in the hand. When he did return, he wore a huge club on the hand, which limited his effectiveness. He was unable to finish plays as he struggled to make tackles with the club or shed the blocks of offensive linemen.

Seeing the limitations that Pierre-Paul had, it is clear that he will not be receiving the huge contract he sought last season. But, there were rumors that the Giants fully expected him to hit the market and leave as a free agent earlier in the month.

But, those rumors seem to have been a bit premature. The latest news is that the Giants are actually hopeful of bringing back Pierre-Paul. Not only are they hopeful, they are actually working on a deal to get him under contract before he can hit the market according to Dan Graziano of ESPN.

This is a change in tune from what was thought earlier in February, but it makes sense for the Giants to try and retain Pierre-Paul. Despite the hand holding him back, it was clear that Pierre-Paul worked hard and was ready to get back on the field, as he was in shape to play football.

Despite the adjustment to playing with his opposite hand in the ground and restrictions the club put on him, Pierre-Paul still graded out well according to Pro Football Focus, finishing 30th out of 91 qualifying players.

Pierre-Paul has been extremely productive for the Giants when he is healthy, but that has been the problem. He has battled a number of injuries throughout his career despite playing all 16 games four times. Those injuries have caused some inconsistencies on the field for Pierre-Paul, as he has two seasons of at least 12.5 sacks but four with 6.5 or less.

The Giants have a glaring need for pass rushing help, so it would make little sense to let arguably their best one go despite his current constraints. His football abilities and instincts are still sharp, but his ability to execute is hindered.

Next: New York Giants' Biggest Needs For 2016

Pierre-Paul underwent another surgery after the season hoping that it would help him get closer to his old self. It would be a worthwhile gamble for the Giants to retain his services, as they have a need and plenty of money to spend.

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