2016 NFL free agency: Who signs Jason Pierre-Paul?

In 2016 NFL free agency, who signs defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul?

New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul spawned a media frenzy after he blew off part of his right hand in a fireworks accident last summer on the Fourth of July. Now, the Giants 2010 first-round draft pick is generating buzz for his free market potential.

Vitals

Age: 27
Height: 6’5″
Weight: 278
Pro Bowls: Two
Super Bowl Championship: XLVI
Notable statistics: 312 career tackles and 43 career quarterback sacks

Contract comparison

In 2015, Pierre-Paul played under a $15 million franchise tag. Pierre-Paul has an aggressive agent and feels he deserves a big payday. Jerry Hughes of the Buffalo Bills has a five-year, $45 million contract with $22 million guaranteed. Greg Hardy, also a risk, though due to off-field issues, was signed to a one-year $11.3 million dollar contract. Much of that compensation was tied to performance incentives.

Will he stay?

Proving he could still contribute despite his injury, Pierre-Paul was a shadow of his former self this past season with the New York Giants, registering one sack in eight games and lacking some of his momentum-changing spark.

Pierre-Paul was recovering from a serious injury this past season, and it remains to be seen if he can return to his prior form. It is possible the Giants will pass on Pierre-Paul based on his health and doubts about his recovery. Pierre-Paul probably wants more than the Giants are willing to pay him, but they could still reach a deal.

If he leaves..

Despite his injury, Pierre-Paul could draw quite a bit of interest. It is probable he will continue to recover and adjust to the aftermath of the accident. He had yet another surgery in January to help improve the mobility in his remaining fingers.

Pierre-Paul’s 2015 performance was adequate, but there is a good chance he will bounce back even more. The reality is that a Jason Pierre-Paul with a partial right hand is still better than most teams’ edge rushers.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers could benefit from a talented pass rusher. Pierre-Paul is from Florida, so that could be an intriguing possibility for both parties. The Dolphins and Falcons are other southern options, though so many teams could stand to fortify their pass rush, that it is likely Pierre-Paul will have several options.