Determined to replace Dexter Lawrence, the New York Giants went all in—and then some—during the 2026 NFL offseason. After overhauling the defensive line with seven additions, including the likes of D.J. Reader, the Giants are now facing a surplus of defensive ends and tackles. According to a report, it may not take long before Elijah Chatman becomes the odd man out.
“It doesn’t figure that there will be a place for a 5-foot-10, 280-pound defensive tackle who doesn’t hold up well against the run because of his size. Chatman has been a nice story for the Giants, but his time might be up,” as stated by Ed Valentine of Big Blue View.
This report may include a hyperbole, as ESPN lists Chatman at 6-foot. Regardless of the inches’ difference, his impact on the Giants‘ defensive line has been minimal, and it’s not ridiculous to believe he could be cut before John Harbaugh and company put together the 53-men roster for the 2026 NFL campaign.
Chatman’s stats with NY Giants
The Giants’ projected starting defense for 2026 is one that sends chills down the spine of every offensive coordinator. The beleaguered unit may finally find some stability in the Big Apple. However, Chatman may not be part of the picture.
Elijah Chatman in pursuit of Deshaun Watson
Through 22 games with the New York Giants (17 in the 2024 NFL season and five in the 2025 campaign), Chatman has recorded 24 total tackles (12 assisted and 12 solo), 3.5 tackles for loss, one sack, and a fumble recovery.
However, his most encouraging numbers came during his first year in East Rutherford. In 2025, his already limited role was further reduced, and as a result, his numbers were far from jumping off the page.
More about Chatman
Chatman spent five years at the collegiate level, playing for the SMU Mustangs. He appeared in 60 games during his NCAA career, recording 98 solo tackles (148 combined), 34 tackles for loss, and 13.5 sacks.
Chatman went undrafted in the 2024 NFL Draft. New York signed him as a UDFA, but it hasn’t panned out. Chatman is signed through the 2026 campaign, but with a cap hit of $1.075 million, it’s not as though that would stop New York from parting ways with him.
