Giants finalize practice squad as waiver claims conclude
The New York Giants completed their 53-man roster and began assembling a 16-player practice squad, adding several waived players while no waiver claims were awarded to the team.
The New York Giants have finished cutting their roster to the league-mandated 53 players and are now focusing on building a 16-member practice squad. The team placed 22 players on waivers, including defensive linemen Anquin Barnes Jr., Ben Barten and Zaach Pickens, as well as receivers Dalen Cambre, Xavier Gipson and Jalin Hyatt, among others.
According to reports, the Giants expect several waived players to clear waivers and join the practice squad. Those likely to be signed include running back Damon Bankston, fullback Grant Finley, defensive tackle Zacch Pickens, defensive end Josh Tupou, interior offensive lineman Jake Kubas, safety Raheem Layne, and safety Beau Brade. Wide receiver Braxton Berrios, who was cut during the final roster moves, is also slated for the practice squad and could be elevated for Week 1.
Quarterback Jake Haener, who completed 9 of 10 passes for 116 yards and a touchdown in two preseason games, is being added to the practice squad as an emergency option and developmental prospect. Wide receiver Jalin Hyatt, a third-round pick in 2023, is also expected to remain on the practice squad despite a disappointing rookie season.
The Giants did not receive any waiver claims and reportedly did not submit any claims of their own. The only player from the cut list claimed by another team was inside linebacker Darius Muasau, who was picked up by New England.