The New York Giants have put themselves in an interesting spot going into the NFL trade deadline. The G-Men sit atop the NFC East with a 4-2-1 record, looking to build on their momentum and solidify their playoff position. Although they've had a good start in New York, the Giants have struggled with injuries, and that could determine how far this team goes. New York’s general manager Joe Schoen will have to make some tough choices; Should the Giants be aggressive before the deadline, or do they stay put with what they have? Three names are making a buzz among NFC East contenders, though. Those being Dalvin Tomlinson, Kenneth Gainwell, and Tony Pollard.
Dalvin Tomlinson, Defensive Tackle: Los Angeles Chargers
The Giants are looking to add to their front seven after star pass rusher Brian Burns sustained a torn ACL and a torn lateral meniscus in his right knee during the fourth quarter of the Giants' 12-7 win over the Tennessee Titans. Bringing back Dalvin Tomlinson, who was drafted to New York in 2017, could help this defense a ton. Tomlinson brings experience and a veteran mind to an extremely young defense that could look to him for advice. The reunion would make complete sense for both sides. The veteran defensive tackle brings valuable familiarity with Big Blue. At the same time, his experience and physical presence in the trenches could reinforce the defensive interior and provide much-needed consistency along the line. Another reason to watch this trade is that Giants head coach John Harbaugh and Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh are brothers, which instantly makes the Chargers a great trade partner. The veteran defensive lineman’s arrival could inject much-needed strength and stability into Big Blue’s defensive front.
Kenneth Gainwell, Running Back: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Giants' backfield has struggled so far this season, and they could use some help. Last Sunday, Tyrone Tracy Jr. was placed on injured reserve with a hamstring injury, opening a perfect spot for ‘Kenny G’. Gainwell would give the Giants an extremely versatile player. A versatile playmaker, he brings explosive potential to the ground game, the passing attack, and even special teams as a return specialist. One big green flag in going after him is that he is under contract through 2027. That means the G-men could add a back who can be there for more than just this season. With Cam Skattebo and Devin Singletary still in the backfield, the dual-threat playmaker wouldn't become the primary back, but he could catch passes and share the workload.
Tony Pollard, Running Back: Tennessee Titans
If the Giants want to go big at running back, Titans running back Tony Pollard makes the most sense. The former Memphis standout has shown himself to be an extremely consistent running back and is a lone bright spot on a struggling Titans team. He can also make plays through the air and on the ground. The explosive veteran remains on track for another 1,000-yard rushing campaign, averaging more than four yards per carry and continuing to showcase his effectiveness on the ground. At 29, this dual-threat running back brings veteran experience to a young backfield and can contribute immediately. Suppose the Giants make the deal for Pollard, though the money and compensation would need to make sense. The former fourth-round draft pick has just entered the last year of his deal, so Tennessee might not want to move him without getting something decent in return. The former Dallas standout could add another dimension to Big Blue’s offense, bringing explosive playmaking ability and veteran experience to bolster the backfield. If the Giants think they are ready to be serious contenders, adding a veteran like this could be a great addition, but only if the price is right.
