Sheldon Richardson rumors: Giants an unlikely trade partner for Jets

The New York Jets will “almost certainly” try to trade defensive lineman Sheldon Richardson rather than be on the hook for his $8.069 million fifth-year option in 2017, per a report from ESPN.

As we continue to meander our way through offseason possibilities, you have to know where this is going.

Should the New York Giants be interested?

ESPN’s Rich Cimini expects the Jets to ask for a first-round pick in exchange for the 26-year-old Richardson. He does not expect them to get it, writing that “they will have to settle for less, perhaps a third-rounder.”

In my view, there is only one scenario in which a trade for Richardson is even a remote possibility for the Giants. That would be if they lose both defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul and defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins in free agency.

That nightmare scenario would leave the Giants with the salary cap space and the need for an infusion of talent that might make them desperate enough to deal a Day 2 pick for Richardson.

Richardson does carry baggage

Undeniably, Richardson is a talented player. He does, however, come with questions. He was suspended for four games in 2015 for violating the league’s substance abuse policy, and was also arrested in July of that year, charged with traffic violations and resisting arrest. He served a one-game suspension in 2016 for violating the league’s personal conduct policy.

There are also questions about just how much on-field effort Richardson gave the Jets in 2016, with Cimini writing “He's a talented player, but he spent last season acting as if he wants out.”

Richardson did have a career-low 1.5 sacks after compiling a total of 13 in 27 games during the 2014 and 2015 seasons.

Cimini, however, does state that Richardson is a natural 3-tech, which would fit the Giants nicely if they lose Hankins. You also wonder if putting him next to former Jets teammate Damon Harrison and the idea that 2017 would be a contract year for Richardson could motivate him.

Will this deal happen?

I am almost certain that it won’t, be to honest. Still, no harm in discussing the possibility.

Your thoughts, Giants fans?

[E-mail Ed at bigblueview@gmail.com | Follow Big Blue View on Twitter | 'Like' Big Blue View on Facebook]