Giants 90-Man Roster: LB Deontae Skinner

Deontae Skinner had a roller-coaster 2016 season with the New York Giants — practice squad, released, re-signed to the practice squad, added to the active roster, released again, re-signed to the active roster again.

Can Skinner get off the roller-coaster and land a permanent job with the Giants in 2017. Let’s take a look at the 26-year-old linebacker as we continue our player-by-player profiles of the Giants’ 90-man roster.

2016 Season In Review

After being released during final cuts by the Philadelphia Eagles, Skinner joined the Giants’ practice squad. He got released, then brought back. He was activated in October, released in November, re-signed and added to the 53-man roster for the second time in December. Skinner ended up appearing in four games, exclusively on special teams.

2017 Season Outlook

Skinner will be fighting for a spot as a reserve linebacker. Veterans Mark Herzlich and perhaps J.T. Thomas, and youngsters Curtis Grant and Calvin Munson appear to be his competition.

Skinner, 6-foot-2, 250 pounds, does have some NFL experience, having played seven games for the New England Patriots after making the team as an undrafted free agent in 2015. He showed value on coverage teams last season, so you have to think there is a chance to can stick as an extra linebacker and special teams contributor.