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Keeping best friends Williams & Tomlinson will be a tough task

- CHRIS BISIGNANO

Giants defensive linemen Leonard Williams and Dalvin Tomlinson work side by side on Sunday afternoons in the fall, but their close relationship does not end when the final whistle blows.

“We’re super-close friends,” said Tomlinson, describing Williams. “I love that guy, love playing beside him. Leo (Williams) has taught me so much about playing the position. But putting football aside, he’s a great human being, and that’s what’s important to me.”

The two defensive stalwarts are free agents this offseason and with the huge financial impact COVID has had on the league, it will be a GIANT task for the front office to retain both players.

Keeping the close friends together is the goal but splitting them up or even possibly losing both players is a dreaded fear for the Giants as free agency nears.

The Giants love both players and want to see them in blue uniforms for a long time. But is it realistic?

Let’s take a look. After talking with the NFLPA, the league announced that the salary cap floor for the 2021 season is $180 million, possibly peaking in the $182 million to $185 million range. It helps a bit, but not much.

There’s only so much a team can commit to one position group and it’s expected that Giants general manager Dave Gettleman will make Williams an offer he can’t refuse.

Let’s face it, after the season Williams had, he must be retained. He was a monster all season long, leading the Giants in sacks with 11.5.