The New York Giants reportedly want to begin contract talks with defensive lineman Leonard Williams before Thanksgiving.
Last week, prior to the NFL trade deadline, the New York Giants sent a 2020 third-round pick and a 2021 fifth-round pick to the New York Jets. In exchange, Big Blue received veteran defensive lineman Leonard Williams. The 25-year-old is expected to improve a defensive line that’s been rather quiet in 2019.
The issue with Williams, however, is that his current rookie contract expires at the end of this season. If the Giants don’t bring him back, he essentially becomes a rental, something that doesn’t make sense when you’re an underachieving football team.
That’s why the Giants’ front office, led by general manager Dave Gettleman, plans to re-sign him. Per Adam Schefter of ESPN, those contract talks could begin before Thanksgiving.
This past week, Gettleman mentioned his plans to re-sign Williams in a message to season-ticket holders, per Michael Eisen of the Giants’ official website.
“We gave up a three and a five,” he said. “Our goal is to sign him long-term. He’s only 25 years old. And obviously talented. He’s a piece you can build around.”
Williams will be of the more experienced guys on this defensive line. Dexter Lawrence, B.J. Hill and Dalvin Tomlinson are in their first, second and third years, respectively.
Through seven games with the Jets this season, Williams racked up 20 combined tackles with five quarterback hits. Hill leads the defensive line with 23 tackles, while the rookie Lawrence leads the spot with 2.5 sacks.
