During the deadline, the Giants became sellers and shipped Edge Rusher Leonard Williams to the Seahawks!
In a surprising move just moments before the NFL trade deadline, the New York Giants have agreed to send star edge rusher Leonard Williams to the Seattle Seahawks in exchange for a 2024 second-round draft pick and a fifth-round pick in 2025. This trade was a bit of a surprise as one team is looking to get better on the defense, while the other is exploring the future. In this article, we'll examine the implications of this trade and what it means for both the Giants and the Seahawks.
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Leonard Williams, often referred to as "Big Cat," has been a dominant force on the Giants' defense since joining the team in 2019 on a trade right before the deadline as well. The 6'5", 302-pound defensive lineman has consistently disrupted opposing offenses with his combination of strength, athleticism, and versatility. In his time with the Giants, Williams recorded numerous sacks, tackles for loss, and quarterback pressures, earning a Pro Bowl nod in 2016 and establishing himself as a good pass rusher.
The Seattle Seahawks have been known for their offense led by 2022 Pro-Bowler Geno Smith, but their defense has often struggled to keep pace. The trade for Leonard Williams is a clear indication that Seattle is committed to shoring up its defensive line and getting after opposing quarterbacks. Williams will bring much-needed pass-rushing prowess and run-stopping ability to a Seahawks defense that has been inconsistent in recent seasons.
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For the Giants, trading Leonard Williams is not a decision taken lightly. Williams was a key piece of their defense, and the team had hoped to continue building around him. However, the offer presented by the Seahawks was too enticing to pass up, given the potential long-term benefits of additional draft picks. The Giants will now have an extra second-round pick in 2024. The Giants also agreed to pay most of Williams remaining contract. The USC product was owed close to $10 million. According to reports, the Seahawks will only pay $ 647,000 of his current deal. The rest of the deal will be paid by the Giants. The Giants will mostly do it through the balance in the form of a signing bonus.
For Leonard Williams, this trade represents a fresh start with a new team. The Seahawks provide him with an opportunity to continue his career in a city known for its passionate fan base and a chance to compete for playoff success. The Seahawks' coaching staff and defensive scheme will undoubtedly welcome Williams' skill set, and he should seamlessly integrate into their plans.
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