Why Darius Slayton rejoined Giants before mandatory minicamp

There's more information about why New York Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton reported for voluntary organized team activities this week after he had been away from the club amid his reported desire for a contract extension.

According to ESPN's Field Yates (h/t Jordan Raanan), Slayton can now earn an additional $650,000 in incentives for the upcoming season after the Giants adjusted his current deal. He can reach free agency following the 2024 campaign.

"I'm satisfied," Slayton said about his situation. "We got done what we needed to get done and just looking forward to playing ball. We just adjusted my contract this year a little bit. Just tried to make it a little bit more lucrative. Business is business and I'm here."

For a piece published Wednesday, Darryl Slater of NJ Advance Media for NJ.com noted Slayton "was never realistically going to" receive a noteworthy extension from the Giants this spring or summer for multiple reasons. New York selected LSU wide receiver Malik Nabers with the No. 6 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft and has both 2022 second-round draft choice Wan'Dale Robinson and 2023 third-round pick Jalin Hyatt on the roster. Veteran Allen Robinson is also fighting for targets with the Giants this summer.

Per ESPN stats, Slayton finished last season third on the Giants with 50 receptions, first with 79 targets, first with 770 receiving yards and tied for first with four receiving touchdowns.

"I think anybody [wants guaranteed money]," Slayton continued. "But at the end of the day, playing the game I love, the game I dreamed about playing as a kid. Happy to be back with my teammates and ready to go."

Much remains unknown about the Giants' future beyond even springtime workouts. Slayton could become a trade piece this fall, and the club could move on from 2023 Week 1 starting quarterback Daniel Jones in March 2025.

"We all love Darius," Giants assistant general manager Brandon Brown said on Thursday. "Sometimes there are disagreements between families and you find a way to find common ground and you move forward. We're happy that he's here and we're happy to keep moving forward with him. He's back like he never left."

As of Thursday afternoon, DraftKings Sportsbook listed the Giants' over/under win total for the upcoming season at 6.5. If Slayton can't help Big Blue exceed such low expectations, he could have a new football home before Thanksgiving Day arrives.