Jay Glazer reports Russell Okung is headed for free agency

As great as their 2016 offseason was, the New York Giants were criticized for not upgrading their offensive line. That wasn’t for lack of trying, however, and the Giants talked to a number of free agent offensive tackles. The biggest name of the bunch, former Seattle Seahawk Russell Okung, ultimately decided to go to the Denver Broncos.

Well, that didn’t last long as the Denver Broncos informed Okung that they will not be picking up his option for the 2017 season.

While that option was only $1 million, it would have activated the final four years of a 5-year contract, worth $48 million, with $20.5 million in guarantees.

Despite an injury history, the 28-year-old Okung is suddenly the best offensive tackle on a market that has also has solid options like like Ricky Wagner [Free Agent Profile], Riley Reiff [Free Agent Profile], and Kelvin Beachum [Free Agent Profile].

As we noted last year, Okung’s build, athleticism, and power are all things the Giants want and need in an offensive lineman. And given Jerry Reese’s comments regarding Ereck Flowers at the end of the season, they might be more willing to offer an open competition to Okung for the coveted left tackle job.

Considering the Giants’ need to upgrade their offensive line, the mutual interest between the franchise and Okung — the Giants were his first visit in the 2016 free agency period — will likely be renewed this year.