The NFL recently released its list of the top 101 free agents of 2024. It’s a fluid list, receiving an update any time a player is signed or tagged. As of this writing, four current members of the New York Giants are on the list.
Saquon Barkley is the Giants’ highest-ranked free agent, which should not surprise anyone. He ranked sixth on the top 101 free agents list, highlighting once again that the Giants need to find a way to keep him.
Barkley performed better last year than his numbers indicated, playing smarter than he did earlier in his career. He has a complete game that could put an offense over the top.
Given everything that has happened over the last year, it won’t shock anyone if Barkley lands elsewhere. But if he does, the Giants will have a huge hole to fill at running back.
Xavier McKinney ranks 14th on the top 101 free agents of 2024 list, and he’s another one the Giants need to find a way to keep.
The amount of quality safeties available shows the NFL’s unfortunate disregard for the position, but McKinney is the most well-rounded option available now that Antoine Winfield received the franchise tag. McKinney can do it all.
As with Barkley, McKinney is likely to hit the open market and be in high demand. He’s stated he wants to be back with the Giants but only if the price is right.
Meanwhile, cornerback Adoree’ Jackson ranks 60th.
A walking example of how cornerback play isn’t consistent year to year, Jackson’s best seasons have been excellent. Just don’t leave him on an island all season like Wink Martindale did last year.
Finally, Tyrod Taylor landed at No. 88.
Tyrod was spinning it when he got the chance with the Giants, taking more shots and hitting more big-time throws than at any point since his arrival as a starter in Buffalo nearly a decade ago. He’s a perfect backup.
These two are unlikely to be back in blue next season for a variety of reasons. Jackson is inconsistent. When he’s on, he’s fantastic, but when he’s off… well, it’s not pretty. The Giants need young players who can contribute consistently and Jackson cannot guarantee that.
Taylor has turned into a career backup. The Giants are already seeking alternate options to sit behind Daniel Jones, so even though he held it together when Jones was out this season, it’s unlikely he will return in 2024.
There is one honorable mention that needs to be discussed. Former Giants defensive end Leonard Williams is a free agent this year and he ranked 10th on the free agent list.
