A year ago, the Giants signed Will Johnson, a free agent they thought could help them as both a fullback and a tight end. Johnson injured his neck in training camp, though, and never played in 2016.
On Thursday, the Giants tried again.
They agreed to terms with tight end/fullback Rhett Ellison, formerly of the Vikings, at the start of free agency, a source confirmed. It is a move they hope will improve their running and passing games. According to ESPN, the deal is for four years and $18 million, with $8 million guaranteed.
Ellison, 28, is the son of Riki Ellison, who helped the 49ers win two Super Bowls in the 1980s.