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Ryan Anderson wasn't expected to return to the Washington Football Team after hitting free agency last week. Now we know where he will sign, and he's staying in the NFC East. The New York Giants have reportedly signed Anderson to a 1-year deal worth $1,127,500 with $137.5k guaranteed. This contract qualifies for the veteran minimum salary benefit so his cap hit for the Giants will only be $987.5k.
The Giants signed OLB Ryan Anderson to a one-year contract. Looks like another veteran salary benefit, so cap hit should be just $987,500. Just $137,500 guaranteed. A 2017 second-round pick, Anderson had six sacks in four seasons in Washington.
— Dan Duggan (@DDuggan21) March 23, 2021
Ryan Anderson was Washington's 2nd round pick in the 2017 NFL Draft. Most people thought he was drafted too high, and he didn't do enough in his 4 years here to prove them wrong. Anderson joined a wave of Alabama defenders drafted high in Washington over the last 4 years.
Anderson's had his best year in 2019, starting games and playing in all 16 that season. He had 44 tackles, 4 sacks, 5 forced fumble, and a pass defended. Last year Ron Rivera and Jack Del Rio took over and converted the defense to a 4-3 base. This was not good news for Anderson, and he barely made an impact.
Now Anderson signs a cheap deal with a division rival to try to establish his value in a 3-4 defense again. He gets the chance to play Washington twice this year, and could have an opportunity to for a revenge game...if he makes the team.