The New York Giants are seeking a solution at punt returner this summer and have already begun to round up a few candidates in organized team activities (OTAs).
Last season, wide receiver Richie James was the primary returner, handling 24 of the 29 chances for an average of 7.3 yards per attempt. Three other players fielded the other five — cornerback Adoree’ Jackson had three and defensive backs Darnay Holmes and Jason Pinnock had one each.
Jackson, of course, suffered a knee injury during one of his three punt returns and missed the team’s final seven regular season games as a result.
Early on in OTAs, Jackson has once again been among the group who are fielding punts and head coach Brian Daboll won’t rule out having his star corner assume the starting role in 2023.
“I think every year is different. Every game is different,” Daboll said when asked about Jackson returning punts this season. “We have a lot of guys out here returning punts right now. We don’t have to make that decision for a while, so we’ll cross that bridge when it comes to it.”
James is gone, signed by Kansas City in free agency, but the others are still on the roster and rookie wideout Jalin Hyatt could be a serious contender as well this summer.
The Giants also signed wide receiver Jamison Crowder as a free agent. Crowder was the Washington Commanders’ primary punt returner for four seasons and returned nine punts for 100 yards last year for the Buffalo Bills.
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