Leon Hall will join the New York Giants.
Hall has signed a deal with the Giants that brings the veteran cornerback to the Big Apple, the team announced Thursday. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported it's a one-year deal that pays out up to $2 million, per a source informed of the contract.
NFL Media's Rand Getlin and Mike Garafolo first reported the development.
The 31-year-old Hall visited the Giants on Wednesday, but initially left without a contract. The Cincinnati Bengals -- who lost first-round corner William Jackson to injury -- were also interested in the veteran.
Hall is coming off a solid 2015 campaign, compiling nine passes defensed and two interceptions. Entering his 10th season, however, the corner has dealt with a litany of injuries throughout his career. He's blown his Achilles tendon twice and underwent offseason back surgery -- one reason for his late signing. He's reportedly healthy now.
Hall adds veteran depth to the Big Blue's corner group, which includes the highly paid Janoris Jenkins, veteran Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and first-round pick Eli Apple. Hall is a slot specialist whose snaps could push Apple down the depth chart if the rookie isn't ready for full-time duty. With the addition of Hall, Apple has the luxury of learning instead of being tossed in the fire without a safety net.
Signing Hall is the latest move to completely overhaul one of the NFL's worst defenses. The Giants added defensive linemen Oliver Vernon and Damon Harrison early in free agency to revamp the front four. Hall, Jenkins and Apple solidify the back end. Now, if only Big Blue had upgrades at linebacker.
