New York Giants: Other trades possibilities after Eli Apple

The New York Giants are one of the worst teams in the NFL despite all their promises during the offseason that the moves made would create a winner.

Clearly it was wishful thinking. Now former 1st round pick Eli Apple has been traded for 4th and 7th round picks to the New Orleans Saints. Many feel that this is just the beginning. GM Dave Gettleman still has a week to start unloading every acquisition or notable failed draft pick by his predecessor in order to gain draft capital and salary cap space.

There are plenty of names to consider for this. Players who were a core part of the team a couple years ago but have since found their status drastically changed due to the team’s persistent losing. It’s now about determining who isn’t part of the future of the organization and finding out if they’re worth anything to teams looking for right now solutions

Janoris Jenkins (CB, $7.75 million)

Jenkins was a solid addition to the defense when he first arrived two years ago, helping it to gain top 10 status and make a run to the playoffs. Since then he’s been average at best. While he does have five interceptions over the past two years, he’s also been beaten for eight touchdowns. Throw in the fact he’s about to turn 30-years old and it makes sense for the Giants to move on, even if it’s for the likely lately rounder they’d get in return.

Olivier Vernon (OLB, $11.5 million)

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Having just returned from injury, the 28-year old pass rusher has a value that’s somewhat in flux. He’s a bit on the older side with some health concerns. However, he also has 10 pressures and a sack in the two games he’s been back. This proves he is still every bit as good as he was last year at getting to the quarterback. Pass rushers are at a premium in this league and there’s every reason to think the Giants can get a solid pick for him.

Damon Harrison (DT, $5.4 million)

“Snacks” has done his job since arriving in New York. He was acquired for one purpose: to stop the run. This he continues to do with 18 tackles for no gain or a loss this season. Though he’s not a young man anymore he’s got a couple of good seasons left in him and there are plenty of teams around the league that need a guy who could shore up their run defense. The price tag will likely fall in the mid round pick range.

Eli Manning (QB, $17 million)

Last but certainly not least is the patriarch of the old Giants era. Give the organization credit. They’ve given Eli Manning every chance to rediscover his old form the past two years. It just isn’t working. He’s a pitcher without his fastball. Maybe it’s a confidence issue. Maybe it’s something else. All anyone can tell is he just doesn’t have it for this team anymore. Perhaps another team might be willing to give him a shot in a fresh environment.

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