Jon Runyan Jr. named New York Giants’ worst 2024 free agent signing

The New York Giants entered last offseason determined to add talent at skill positions and beef up their offensive line, which has been a persistent problem for more than a decade.

As part of that plan, general manager Joe Schoen signed veteran guard Jon Runayn Jr. to a three-year, $30 million contract with $17 million guaranteed. It was the most the Giants spent on any free agent during the 2024 cycle.

In hindsight, Pro Football Focus believes Runyan was the team’s worst signing.

Runyan was the Giants’ most expensive free agent signing last offseason. He played just 13 games and earned a 56.1 overall grade, which aligns with the rest of his career numbers. That level of performance doesn’t necessarily warrant paying him $10 million per season, though.

Except for an ugly performance against the Cleveland Browns in Week 3, Runyan started the season off strong. His grades noticeably dipped after left tackle Andrew Thomas suffered a Lisfranc injury against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 6.

Although that doesn’t absolve Runyan of some inconsistent play, there does appear to be cause and effect after stability at left tackle was lost.

Meanwhile, PFF believes that signing fellow guard Greg Van Roten was the team’s best free agent addition.

The 34-year-old Van Roten was the Giants’ most durable player this season, giving them a decent performance with a 63.4 overall grade. New York’s offensive line struggled immensely again this year, but Van Roten’s performance wasn’t among their top issues.

Van Roten started the season poorly and ended the year with a few negative performances, but was particularly strong midway through the season.

Like Runyan, he also dealt with issues on the outside as the Giants shuffled through several right tackles.