On Friday, the New York Giants signed veteran wide receiver Cole Beasley.
The signing reunites Beasley with Brian Daboll and Joe Schoen, whom he played for with the Buffalo Bills. That Beasley is familiar with the front office is a bonus, and it’s a bonus that he’s an 11-year veteran who can impart some knowledge on the younger players.
Beasley adds continued depth to a wide receiving corps that was depleted last year; a corps that will likely be down a couple of players who will still be recovering from injury when the season begins.
With Beasley on board now, here are five things to know about the newly inked Giant.
Played three seasons under Brian Daboll
After starting his career in Dallas, Beasley then spent three seasons in Buffalo under Daboll and Schoen. He also split some of the 2022 season between the Bills and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. So, Beasley is familiar with how Daboll likes to do things, what Schoen expects from his players and he knows what to expect from them as well. All a bonus as it lessens the learning curve that comes with joining a new team.
Beasley is a solid route runner
Beasley’s route running is impeccable. Tony Romo relied on Beasley for many third-down conversions during their time together because he knew Beasley would be where he was supposed to be. This is something he can help instill in younger players and help them reach their true potential.
He's versatile
When he was in high school, Beasley actually played running back and quarterback. It wasn’t until he went to SMU that he became a wide receiver. It’s his bread-and-butter position now, but he has the ability to play elsewhere on the field if needed. He can also serve as a return man.
Consistent and reliable
Over his 11-year career, not only has Beasley appeared in nearly every game he could have, which means he wasn’t out with injury, he’s gone without illness. He’s always been there, present, and ready to go. Especially here in New York, that goes a long way. On top of that, out of his 556 receptions, he’s fumbled the ball a total of six times in 11 years.
Age is a factor
Beasley already retired once. On October 5, 2022, he announced his retirement from the Bucs. He was on the practice squad, had been elevated to the active roster once and then demoted. So he retired. Until the Bills brought him out of retirement in December 2022.
At the age of 34, Beasley is nearing the end of his professional football career. Signing him adds depth to the receiving corps, and his veteran knowledge will be incredibly helpful. But it probably won’t be long before he retires for real.
