Arthur Jones’ brother Chandler plays for New England and brother Jon is UFC light heavyweight champion.
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The Giants have a lot of work to do in order to get back into divisional contention, much less the playoff picture, so once the league’s official 2014-15 business calendar commences Tuesday, Big Blue will delve in like the other 31 teams.
The Giants wasted no time in having players visit their facility, but none have informally agreed to terms. They’ll have some wiggle room under the new salary cap, as they’re an estimated $17 million under the $133 million threshold.
Metro looks at a handful of players the Giants could be looking at to fill needs.
1. Andrew Quarless
The Giants need a tight end and Quarless played under Ben McAdoo, the new Giants offensive coordinator, which means Big Blue may have the inside track on signing the budding player.
He caught 56 passes for 586 yards and three touchdowns his last three healthy seasons.
2. Arthur Jones
Justin Tuck may or may not return, but even if he does, the Giants need to replenish their once-deep defensive line.
Look for Big Blue to inquire about Raven Arthur Jones. The 6-foot-3, 315-pound Jones was a 3-4 defensive end in Baltimore, but could also kick inside to defensive tackle in a 4-3 look. While he’s the lesser-known of the three Jones brothers, Arthur has a versatile skill set.
3. Brian de la Puente
David Baas missed most of last season which makes his $4.75 million base salary for 2014 high. Even if he stays, he’ll need competition. New York has expressed interest in Saints center Brian de la Puente.
4. Golden Tate
Hakeem Nicks is a free agent and unlikely to return on a long-term deal. He’s said he would sign a one-year deal, but history shows some team will certainly reach and overpay.
5. Jameel McClain
Jon Beason may be the most sought-after free agent who played for the Giants last season. But like Tuck, the linebacker was told by management to test the market and gauge his own value.
If he’s out, former Raven Jameel McClain is someone to keep an eye on after making a second visit last week.
The Giants have backup plans that reportedly include Golden Tate of the Super Bowl-winning Seahawks or Emmanuel Sanders of the Steelers.
Follow Giants beat writer Tony Williams on Twitter @TBone8.
