It was expected that the New York Giants would add a big-time receiver during NFL free agency as a way to help recently extended quarterback Daniel Jones.
That never came to fruition. Instead, New York signed lesser-known pass catchers in that of Parris Campbell and Jamison Crowder.
With Giants training camp getting going, general manager Joe Schoen has picked up another veteran for Jones. According to multiple media reports, New York has signed 34-year-old wide receiver Cole Beasley to a one-year contract.
Beasley played under Giants head coach Brian Daboll with the Buffalo Bills from 2019-2021, averaging 77 receptions for 813 yards and four touchdowns per season. At the very least, he’ll provide another option in the slot to go with both Campbell and Crowder.
- Cole Beasley career stats: 556 receptions, 5,744 yards, 54 TD, 71% catch rate
As you can see, Beasley has been a consistent force since the Dallas Cowboys signed the former Southern Methodist star as an undrafted free agent back in 2012. His best season came back in 2020 with Buffalo when the 5-foot-8 receiver caught 82 passes for 967 yards while hauling in 77% of his targets from Josh Allen.
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New York Giants depth chart after Cole Beasley signing
New York still doesn’t have a true No. 1 receiver for Jones. Isaiah Hodgins was very good after coming over from Buffalo on the waiver wire last season, catching 33 passes for 351 yards in eight games (five starts).
Meanwhile, Darius Slayton hauled in 46 passes for 724 yards while catching 65% of his targets. New York is relying on both to put up big seasons in 2023. As for the free-agent additions, Parris Campbell is an intriguing option. The former Indianapolis Colts second-round pick put up a career-high in receptions (63) and receiving yards (623) last season.
- Isaiah Hodgins
- Darius Slayton
- Parris Campbell
- Sterling Shepard
- Wan’Dale Robinson
- Cole Beasley
- Jamison Crowder
- Collin Johnson
- Jeff Smith
- David Sills
As you can see, there is going to be a pretty big battle for roster spots in New Jersey during training camp and the preseason. Three or four players from the list above will not break camp with the New York Giants.