The New York Giants have added two former Kansas City Chiefs practice squad players, wide receiver/returner Montrell Washington and cornerback Nic Jones, to their roster. Both players signed reserve/future contracts on February 14. The news, initially shared by JL Sports, was later confirmed by reporters Dan Duggan of The Athletic and Nick Jacobs of KSHB 41. Washington and Jones were part of the Chiefs’ recent Super Bowl-winning team, contributing primarily on special teams and practice squad call-ups.
Washington, a former fifth-round pick by the Denver Broncos in 2022, joined the Chiefs in 2023. While he has some ability as a receiver, his main strength lies in his return skills. The Giants previously used impending free agent Ihmir Smith-Marsette in a similar role during the 2024 season. Meanwhile, Jones was a seventh-round selection by Kansas City in 2023. He spent his rookie season on the active roster before moving to the practice squad in his second year. Known for his versatility, Jones played various coverage roles and contributed on special teams.
The Giants have often opted for competition at the returner position under head coach Brian Daboll. In 2024, they initially had Gunner Olszewski and Isaiah McKenzie in camp, but injuries led to Smith-Marsette taking over. He delivered solid performances, averaging 34.6 yards per kick return with a touchdown and 7.9 yards per punt return. However, with Smith-Marsette entering free agency, the Giants could look to Washington as an affordable backup option. With Kansas City, Washington returned two kickoffs for a 17.0-yard average and eight punts for a 7.6-yard average.
His previous stint with Denver saw him average 18.9 yards per kickoff return and 8.5 yards per punt return.
At cornerback, the Giants are looking to bolster their depth for the 2025 season. Jones may not be a top-tier solution, but he could provide valuable depth. The current cornerback group includes Deonte Banks, Dru Phillips, Cor’Dale Flott, Tre Hawkins III, Art Green, and Dee Williams, with Divaad Wilson as an exclusive-rights free agent. More additions at the position are expected through free agency and the draft.
NFL Network’s Lance Zierlein previously described Jones as a long but average-speed cornerback with a good feel for the ball. While he shows confidence in press coverage, he has some weaknesses in tackling and off-man coverage. However, his ability to disrupt punts and kicks could make him a valuable asset for the Giants’ special teams unit. Jones will have an opportunity to prove himself during OTAs and minicamp.
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