Javon Walker, recently cut by the Broncos, has been rumored to have interest by no less than 10 teams. The Giants are one of them. But I feel taking a flier on Walker or any other free agent wideout is a longshot for many reasons this offseason.
Plaxico Burress has established himself in three years with the Giants as a top flight, number one receiver. His opposite number, Amani Toomer, has been the perfect second fiddle to Plax. Coming off a serious knee injury, Toomer came back to play fairly well in 2007, despite a few rocky periods. But Toomer finished very strong by being simply clutch in the playoffs. This may sound sappy, but Toomer deserves to come back for the final year of his contract at full price. Many had speculated, mainly during the regular season, that he’d only be back with a pay cut. Consider it a reward for being one of the best wideouts in the storied history of this franchise. And it’s reasonable to suggest that Toomer, although a year older, comes back a bit stronger after a full year building the knee back up.Â
 So the first two slots are set. Make that the first three slots. Steve Smith has a lock on the third down receiver title. Hurt for most of the season, he played huge during the playoff run. He and Manning appeared to be in sync big time, a terrific sign. Then there is Sinorice Moss. The Giants aren’t about to give up on Moss…yet. He has to show something this year. I’ll be the first to say I don’t think they have utilized him the best way (more deep routes, less wide receiver sceens please). We’ve seen small glimpses of ability, but 2008 must be the year for him to break through or the Giants will look elsewhere. Breathing down Moss’ neck are David Tyree, Dominic Hixon (who we hear Reese is very high on), and Michael Jennings who will battle for the fifth, and possibly sixth, roster spots.Â
And when you consider the Giants will have a fine tandem of Jeremy Shockey and Kevin Boss at the tight end spot, the entire receiving core looks strong. Don’t overlook the tight end position when evaluating the passing game. Look for the Giants to give a lot of double tight end looks next season.
So where exactly would another WR fit in? I look for the Giants to go for a WR in free agency or the draft as a high priority in 2009. Plax will be a year older, Toomer could be at the end of his NFL career, and an evaluation of Moss will have been made. The Giants can get through another season with this group and focus on other areas of the team. I only see the draft as the area where another WR could possibly be picked up, and only if it’s a situation where that player is rated too high to pass up.
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