The New York Giants made several roster adjustments on October 1, including two signings and three releases. As reported by team insider Dan Salomone, the Giants finalized practice squad deals with wide receiver and return specialist Kearis Jackson and veteran nickelback Greg Stroman. Jackson’s signing had already been reported on September 30, while Stroman brings experience from his five NFL seasons with teams like the Washington Commanders and Chicago Bears.
In a more surprising move, the Giants released undrafted rookie safety Alex Johnson. Johnson, a former UCLA cornerback, transitioned to safety and impressed during the summer, even pushing for a roster spot against 2023 draft pick Gervarrius Owens. After an injury sidelined Owens, Johnson appeared to have an opportunity, but both players were eventually placed on the practice squad when the Giants claimed Anthony Johnson Jr. off waivers from the Green Bay Packers.
The Giants also released tight end Lawrence Cager with an injury settlement, following his stint on injured reserve since September 24. Cager, who had been with the Giants since 2022, tallied 174 receiving yards and two touchdowns across 19 appearances, including playoffs. His release was likely due to disagreements regarding his IR designation. Additionally, the Giants cut tight end Joel Wilson, who had recently joined the practice squad as Cager’s replacement.
These moves continue to shape the Giants’ roster as they navigate through injuries and make necessary adjustments for the remainder of the season.
Greg Stroman Provides Giants With Experienced CB Depth Amid Injuries
The New York Giants were without rookie cornerback Dru Phillips and veteran Adoree’ Jackson in their Week 4 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys. While neither player has been ruled out for Week 5, the signing of Greg Stroman could signal that the team has concerns about its depth in the secondary. Stroman, who brings five years of NFL experience, entered the league as a seventh-round pick in 2018 and has since appeared in 29 games. Over that time, he has recorded 3 interceptions, 3 tackles for loss, 1 sack, 1 forced fumble, and 65 total tackles.
Stroman is best known for his play as a nickel cornerback, having logged 310 of his 610 career defensive snaps in that position, according to Pro Football Focus (PFF). He has also shown versatility with 253 snaps at cornerback and another 44 at safety. His ability to perform well in both run defense and pass coverage, as reflected in his solid PFF grades, makes him a valuable addition to the Giants’ secondary. During his last two seasons with the Chicago Bears, Stroman held opposing quarterbacks to passer ratings of 70.4 and 76.6, showcasing his effectiveness in coverage despite not securing a full-time role.
Stroman’s versatility and reliability in coverage could provide critical support for the Giants if Phillips or Jackson remains sidelined, giving the team more flexibility heading into Week 5.
Giants WR Signing Kearis Jackson Was Jack of All Trades With Georgia
Kearis Jackson, signed by the New York Giants on September 30, is an intriguing 24-year-old prospect for head coach Brian Daboll. Jackson, a versatile player from his time at Georgia, contributed in multiple ways—serving as a wide receiver, runner, kick returner, and punt returner. In 55 college games, Jackson amassed over 2,200 total yards, including 1,107 receiving yards, 805 kick return yards, and 338 punt return yards, with an additional 48 rushing yards.
His versatility makes him a valuable potential asset for the Giants, especially if he can stay healthy and maintain production. With the Tennessee Titans last season, Jackson returned six punts for an average of 8.0 yards per return. He also showed potential during this summer’s preseason, returning three kickoffs for 111 yards, including a 63-yard long return. If given the opportunity, Jackson could fill multiple roles for Big Blue, potentially offering a boost on special teams and providing additional offensive depth.
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