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The New York Giants are expected to place their franchise tag on defensive tackle Leonard Williams, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The news comes with a little under three hours left until the free agency negotiation period is scheduled to begin. Teams have until 11:59 a.m. to use their franchise or transition tags.
Williams joined the Giants this year after 4+ seasons with the New York Jets. The Giants acquired Williams on October 28, 2019 in exchange for a 202 third round pick and a 2021 fifth round pick. He finished the season with 46 total tackles and half a sack. Pro Football Focus ranked him 29th in their pass rush productivity stat, but just 69th in run stop percentage and 42nd in overall defensive grade.
Williams is a capable defensive lineman, but the franchise tag is a bit of an odd choice for a team in the process of rebuilding.