5 targets for Giants in 2022 NFL free agency

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Oct 14, 2021; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end O.J. Howard (80) gets past tackle by Philadelphia Eagles outside linebacker Alex Singleton (49) during the second quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports /

3. O.J. Howard, TE

The Giants need to find a way to figure out their tight end issue.

New York used their 2017 first-round pick on Evan Engram, and it never really panned out, between injuries and drop problems. Engram did present himself as a bright spot in New York’s dismal passing attack in his final year under contract, but it is probably best for the two sides to move on this offseason.

As of this writing, Kyle Rudolph is the top tight end option in the offense, which is not a good thing considering his age. The Giants need to find a quality backup that can eventually transition into a starting role. Given the team’s cap situation, they can choose to take a flier on O.J. Howard.

A part of the 2017 draft class, Howard was selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Howard had dealt with his fair share of injuries over the years, but he was not heavily implemented in Bruce Arian’s offense. His playing time did take a hit once the team brought Rob Gronkowski out of retirement.

In his five years with Tampa Bay, Howard recorded 119 receptions for 1,737 yards and 15 touchdowns.

If the Giants want to bank on a player’s upside for cheap, then Howard would be a solid option for them.

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