Giants' Leonard Williams named a potential trade candidate

Since being traded to the New York Giants in 2019, Leonard Williams has become the face of the team's defensive front. Now with just one year remaining on his contract, he has been named as a potential trade candidate per Spotrac's Michael Ginnitti. 

"After two extremely productive seasons in 2020-21, Williams’ production dipped off slightly — mostly stemming from five weeks missed. There are a few reasons Williams finds himself on this list, and his inability to make a difference on the field isn’t one of them. The Giants have a LOT of mouths to feed offensively. Dexter Lawrence is in his extension window. Williams is on an expiring contract with a loaded cap figure." wrote Ginnitti. 

"It just may be the wrong time to extend Williams on this roster, making him a very attractive trade candidate this March. He holds a one-year, $18M (non-guaranteed) contract if moved, freeing up over $12M of cap for the Giants." 

By moving on from Williams, before June 1, the Giants would free up just over $12M in cap space according to Spotrac. This figure would stay the same through either his release or potential trade. By doing this, the team would also take on a dead cap charge of approximately $20M. 

The Giants could also look to move on from Williams post-June 1. By doing this, they could free up $18M in space but would take on cap hits in both 2023 and 2024. 

With the Giants looking to bring back both quarterback Daniel Jones and running back Saquon Barkley, they could be looking to free up as much cap space as possible. Moving on from Williams could be a move that this team has to make. 

Williams finished the 2022 season appearing in 12 games. He recorded 45 total tackles, five tackles for loss, 12 quarterback hits, and 2.5 sacks.

Williams has already stated that he would consider restructuring his contract to return next season. But if the two sides are unable to reach a new deal, it appears that he could find himself on the trade block.