Report: Giants will make a ‘strong effort’ to re-sign Leonard Williams

The New York Giants will make a “strong effort” to re-sign DT Leonard Williams, but he’s not likely to come cheap.

[jwplayer XSyjMNDc-ThvAeFxT]

The New York Giants will have more than a handful of free agents hit the open market come March 17, but perhaps none are more important than defensive linemen Leonard Williams and Dalvin Tomlinson.

The Giants seem keen on re-signing both, but given their substantial investment in Williams, he’s a must to keep. General manager Dave Gettleman knows that and will make a “strong effort” to re-sign Williams, reports Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.

I continue to hear the Giants will put forth a strong effort to keep Williams, who broke out with 11.5 sacks and 30 quarterback hits. Williams likes the way DC Patrick Graham got him loose with stunts and tilted fronts. Keep the party rolling with a big payday before the new league year. If that doesn’t happen, Williams will have plenty of suitors after realizing his enormous potential in 2020.

It’s likely going to take a substantial deal to keep Williams in East Rutherford, but the Giants do have the added advantage of playing in New Jersey — Williams’ home. They have also shown Williams nothing but respect, which he values more than money.

Williams finished last season with 11.5 sacks, 14 tackles for a loss and 30 QB hits — all career highs. He is widely considered one of the best pending free agents in football.

[vertical-gallery id=663237]