News Page

Main Content

Giants Sign WR Braxton Berrios

Sports Illustrated's profile
Original Story by Sports Illustrated
June 1, 2026
Giants Sign WR Braxton Berrios

Context:

The New York Giants signed veteran wide receiver Braxton Berrios to a one-year deal after he participated in an early workout, aiming to replace Gunner Olszewski who tore his Achilles. Berrios, a former All-Pro return specialist, is expected to bolster the Giants’ return game and add depth at wide receiver. The move leverages his proven punt and kickoff return production, while noting limited action in recent seasons. The signing signals the team’s intent to improve special-teams impact and depth for the upcoming season. A forward-looking view suggests he could contribute immediately as a return option and situational receiver.

Dive Deeper:

  • Braxton Berrios joined the New York Giants on a one-year contract after taking part in an early-morning workout that also involved Odell Beckham Jr., Anthony Miller, and JuJu Smith-Schuster.

  • The acquisition is framed as a direct response to Gunner Olszewski’s torn Achilles, which left the Giants without their top kickoff and return man from the prior season.

  • Berrios has a track record as a return specialist, including a career kickoff return average around 24.9 yards and a punt return average near 11.3 yards, along with more than 2,000 kickoff return yards since his 2019 rookie season.

  • Over the past two seasons, his NFL game count was limited (10 games), with 2021 highlighted as his peak returning year, which featured a league-leading 102-yard kickoff return and strong punt return numbers.

  • In total, Berrios has appeared in 91 regular-season games and recorded 140 receptions for 1,360 yards, indicating he can contribute as a depth option at receiver beyond return duties.

  • He is described as a former first-team All-Pro returner with a substantial history of returns and yardage, suggesting the Giants view him as a meaningful upgrade for special-teams and field-position roles.

  • The move aligns with a broader plan to reinforce the receiver group while prioritizing return game improvement ahead of the upcoming season.

Latest Sports

Related Stories