The New York Giants are showing more fight this season than last, and their big Week 5 win against the Seattle Seahawks proves it.
Now, standing with a 2-3 record, they’re not completely out of the running yet.
But with the trade deadline looming, the question is: should they hold onto their key players or start listening to offers?
Wide receiver Darius Slayton is one name that’s popping up in trade talks.
While the Giants would probably like to keep him, Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine thinks he’s a potential target for the Baltimore Ravens, among others.
Slayton is fast, and that speed could be a great fit for the Ravens’ passing game, especially with Lamar Jackson running the show.
Baltimore already leans heavily on guys like Zay Flowers and Justice Hill, but adding Slayton could make their offense even more dangerous with deep play-action passes.
However, since Slayton becomes a free agent in 2024, the Giants might only get a Day 3 draft pick if they decide to trade him.
The timing is interesting, too—Slayton had a standout game in Week 5, filling in for Malik Nabers, who was out with a concussion.
Slayton racked up eight receptions for 122 yards and a touchdown, which clearly helped the Giants pull off that upset win.
With such a solid performance, trading him away seems harsh, especially since the Giants still need to figure out how much they can rely on rookie Jalin Hyatt.
But, if the right offer comes in, Giants GM Joe Schoen might have to consider it.
However, the Ravens aren’t the only team interested.
NFL analyst Matt Holder also suggests the Los Angeles Rams and Houston Texans could be eyeing Slayton.
The Rams, for instance, are dealing with a bunch of injuries to their receiving corps.
Since they’re sitting at 1-4, they could really use a boost, and Slayton’s experience might help them stay competitive.
With some of their top receivers banged up, bringing Slayton into the fold could help the Rams stay in the NFC playoff race.
As for the Texans, they might not be looking to trade for Slayton right now, but he could be a great option when he hits free agency in 2025.
With big names like Stefon Diggs and Robert Woods possibly leaving next season, Slayton’s speed and playmaking ability would be a cost-effective addition to Houston’s roster.
And Slayton is definitely proving his worth this season.
Giants head coach Brian Daboll praised him after the big win against Seattle, calling him dependable and smart.
“He’s very dependable, and he’s smart. He’s a great teammate. He’s always done whatever we’ve asked of him,” Daboll said.
Not exactly the words of a coach ready to trade away a player, right?
Still, the NFL is a business, and with Slayton set to hit free agency, the Giants have to think about the future.
If the right team comes knocking, and the deal makes sense, it’s possible that Slayton could be suiting up for a new team soon.
Notably, Baltimore seems like the front-runner if they decide to make a move.
They need someone who can stretch the field, and Slayton’s speed would be a huge asset for them.
The Rams, battling injuries, are also in the mix. They are looking for someone to help keep their offense afloat.
And the Texans, while maybe looking ahead to free agency, see Slayton as a solid option down the line.
For now, it’s all about waiting to see if the Giants are willing to part ways with one of their most reliable wideouts.
With interest heating up, Slayton’s future is definitely one to watch as the trade deadline gets closer.
Will the Giants hold on, or will he be catching passes in a new jersey soon?
Stay tuned.