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Brandon Graham, who seemed with the grasp of the New York Giants according to reports throughout Monday afternoon, will return to the Philadelphia Eagles. Graham, who had apparently narrowed his choices to New York or Philly, will reportedly accept a four-year, $26 million offer from the Eagles with $14 million guaranteed.
The Giants had sought Graham in an effort to bolster a defensive end position where there are questions following the release of Mathias Kiwanuka and revelations about health concerns with Robert Ayers and Damontre Moore.
Graham confirmed his return to Philly via Twitter:
Happy to be back family! #Eagles
— Brandon Graham (@brandongraham55) March 9, 2015
The Giants had earlier missed out on another primary target, New England Patriots safety Devin McCourty.
The five-year veteran was a first-round pick in 2010, selected 13th overall. That is two picks before the Giants selected Jason Pierre-Paul, and Graham has never been a full-time player in Philadelphia. He started just 15 games in five seasons, only one in the past two years when he was forced to play outside linebacker after Philadelphia transitioned to a 3-4 defense. Graham has 17 sacks during his career.
The Giants have yet to strike a deal with anyone in free agency.
What now for the Giants?
If the Giants want to add a pass rusher there are still a few 4-3 defensive ends who could fill that role.
Jabaal Sheard, Cleveland Browns -- Sheard is a four-year veteran. He spent his first two seasons as a 4-3 defensive end, compiling 15.5 sacks. In his last two season, forced to play 3-4 outside linebacker, he had only 7.5.
Derrick Morgan, Tennessee Titans -- Morgan was selected one pick after Pierre-Paul in 2010. He has been a nice player for Tennessee, but not the impact player Pierre-Paul has been at his best. He had to transition to outside linebacker for the Titans in 2014, but might be better suited to return to the 4-3. Has 23 career sacks.
Trent Cole -- There have been no reports that the Giants have been among the suitors for the 32-year-old former Eagle. You wonder if that will change now.
Adrian Clayborn, Tampa Bay Buccaneers -- They were connected to Clayborn over the weekend, but the latest reports are that the Giants are likely to be out of the running here.