<
>

Johnathan Hankins, Victor Cruz headline list of remaining Giants free agents

It has been a little more than two weeks since free agency began. It feels like more than two months, and it's far from over.

The New York Giants have signed 10 players so far, including several of their own. Defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul received a long-term deal. Linebackers Keenan Robinson and Mark Herzlich, offensive lineman John Jerry and quarterback Josh Johnson were all brought back for at least one more season.

Some players on last year’s roster also signed elsewhere. Cornerback Coty Sensabaugh landed in Pittsburgh, offensive lineman Marshall Newhouse joined the Raiders and kicker Robbie Gould also went to the Bay Area but with the 49ers.

They are not returning and more defections are inevitable in the next few weeks or months. There are still plenty of Giants sitting on the free-agent market.

Let’s take a look at where things stand:

DT Johnathan Hankins -- He’s the highest-ranked free agent still available, according to ESPN’s John Clayton. Hankins is in search of a lucrative long-term deal that pays him handsomely. At some point during the process, Hankins' camp was asking for well over $10 million per season, according to multiple sources. That may have changed now that the market has spoken, but the belief is Hankins’ team is still hoping to land a long-term deal. Optimism has increased over the past week among Giants players that Hankins will return.

WR Victor Cruz -- He visited the Carolina Panthers prior to the start of free agency and everything has been quiet since. The former Pro Bowler may have to wait until after the draft. He's a veteran receiver who doesn't play special teams.

RB Rashad Jennings -- The Giants cut Jennings last month and he’s looking for work. There is nothing brewing at this point as he’s busy with "Dancing With the Stars" (but also training). The running back market has been the slowest to develop, but Jennings still has value as a veteran backup for a team. He may also have to wait until after the draft to see which teams still need depth at the position.

FB Will Johnson -- He has drawn interest and recently visited with the Jets and Falcons. A return to the Giants remains a possibility after he missed all of last season with a nerve problem in his shoulder. He's healthy now and brings a unique and versatile skill set to the table.

TE Larry Donnell -- The market for Donnell isn’t great after a rough 2016 season. He recently switched agents and is waiting for a call. Expect a minimum-salary deal when he does sign.

CB Trevin Wade -- The signing of Valentino Blake likely signals the end for Wade with the Giants. He’s still expected to find a home somewhere as a veteran who can provide cornerback depth.

DB Leon Hall -- He started at safety for the Giants in their playoff loss to the Green Bay Packers. The 32-year-old still intends to play and can help a team with his versatility and experience. He didn't sign last year until August.

LB Kelvin Sheppard -- All has been quiet regarding last year’s starting middle linebacker, a sign that a return to the Giants is unlikely. It appears to be second-year linebacker B.J. Goodson’s time. As a quality locker room presence and leader, Sheppard will find a job, although likely at minimum salary again.

RB Bobby Rainey -- His Giants tenure didn’t end well. The acquisition of Shaun Draughn closes the door on Rainey’s return. He will play elsewhere this season, although it may take some time to find a home. The draft is loaded at running back.

QB Ryan Nassib -- He’s still rehabbing an elbow injury that required surgery in December. He may need to get fully healthy first before landing a job.

OL Will Beatty -- He's destined to land elsewhere after being buried on the depth chart. But he’s played some good football and is a solid veteran addition for a team needing a tackle. He’ll wait patiently for the right opportunity this time around.