Could TE Jeremy Shockey return to the New York Giants?

Following a bitter breakup with the New York Giants, could veteran tight end Jeremy Shockey find his way back onto the team’s roster this season? Shockey remains without a job, receiving little interest on the free agent market this year, and according to the New York Daily News, contacted the franchise in March expressing his desire to return. New York waived injured tight end Jake Ballard last week and he was quickly picked up by the New England Patriots.New York had the intention of re-signing Ballard after waiving him and eventually placing him on injured reserve for the season.

The Giants acquired former tight end Martellus Bennett in free agency this year, signing him to a one-year deal worth $2.5 million dollars. Bennett’s best season with the Dallas Cowboys came in 2010 when he recorded 33 receptions for 260 yards. Bennett reported to Giants offseason workouts this summer weighing in at 291 pounds, significantly more than his 265 pound playing weight in years past.

Ballard’s teammate, Travis Beckum is currently rehabbing his knee after undergoing ACL surgery after the Super Bowl and could start the season on the PUP list, a move which would ensure that he will miss the first six games of the regular season.

The Giants currently have five other tight ends on their 90-man offseason roster. Christian Hopkins, Larry Donnell, Bear Pascoe, Ryan Purvis and Adrien Robinson.

Shockey’s best seasons have come during his time with the Giants and will turn 32 this August. Bennett holds the top tight end position during offseason workouts, but given the weight issues he brought to camp, one has to wonder if he can become the vertical threat the Giants are looking for from the tight end position.

Shockey’s game his diminished with age, but there are few remaining tight ends left in the free agent market. Shockey burned bridges with his departure during his first stop with the Giants. Is it possible that the coaching staff overlooks his past history while filling a possible need for the Giants? If Bennett struggles, it’s possible that the Giants staff could let bygones be bygones and make Shockey’s phone ring.