In a move that reunites past connections with present needs, the New York Giants are signing veteran wide receiver Ray-Ray McCloud to their practice squad, providing a much-needed infusion of depth at a position decimated by injury.
The Giants’ receiving corps has been alarmingly thin this season, exacerbated by the devastating loss of superstar Malik Nabers. The former LSU star, who dazzled with his speed and route-running in training camp, suffered a torn ACL in Week 4 against the Cowboys, landing him on injured reserve (IR) for the remainder of the year.
With Darius Slayton and Wan’Dale Robinson the clear 1-2 punch and unproven options like Jalin Hyatt and Beaux Collins filling gaps, head coach Brian Daboll has leaned heavily on tight ends for production. McCloud’s arrival potentially addresses that void, offering a reliable slot option with return prowess.
McCloud’s ties to the Giants’ brain trust run deep. Drafted in the sixth round by the Buffalo Bills in 2018, he overlapped with current general manager Joe Schoen and Daboll during their Bills tenure, where they built a dynamic offense.
The 29-year-old journeyman has since bounced between the Bills, Carolina Panthers, Pittsburgh Steelers, San Francisco 49ers, and Atlanta Falcons, amassing 158 receptions for 1,518 yards and two touchdowns over 98 games.
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In addition to his offensive value, McCloud is a versatile threat, capable of running the ball and serving as a return man. He has returned 140 punts for 1,326 yards and 126 kickoffs for 2,890 yards.
As New York (2-5) eyes a turnaround before facing the Eagles on Sunday, this low-risk addition signals savvy roster management. If McCloud impresses in practice, a promotion to the 53-man roster isn’t out of the question, giving Daboll a trusted weapon to scheme around.
