Full Breakdown
Giants Re-Sign Veteran Returner Braxton Berrios to Practice Squad Ahead of Week 1
8/31/2026, 11:51:33 PM
Core Event: Release and Immediate Re-Signing
- The New York Giants cut wide receiver and return specialist Braxton Berrios from the 53-man roster on Sunday, the final day of roster reductions.
- Because Berrios is a vested veteran, he cleared waivers and was re-signed to the practice squad on Monday.
- Team officials said the intention is to elevate him for the season-opening game against the Dallas Cowboys.
Background & Context
- Berrios signed a one-year, league-minimum contract on June 1 for $1.3 million.
- He earned All-Pro honors as a punt returner with the New York Jets in 2021 and posted career averages of 11.2 yards per punt return and 24.9 yards per kickoff return.
- The Giants entered the preseason with only five wide receivers on the active roster, prompting the use of practice-squad elevations to add depth.
Data & Statistics
- Age 30; seventh NFL season (Jets, Dolphins, Texans).
- Appeared in just 10 games over the past two years because of injury.
- Practice-squad players may be elevated up to three times per season.
Official Statements & Responses
- ESPN reporter Adam Schefter reported that the Giants’ plan was to keep Berrios available as their primary punt returner despite the roster cut.
- Giants reporter Doug Rush confirmed the re-signing and said the expectation is that Berrios will be active for Week 1.
- Team officials described the maneuver as a “handshake agreement” that allowed the Giants to retain a veteran without exposing him to waivers.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Braxton Berrios will be active Week 1 as the Giants punt returner,” — ESPN’s Jordan Raanan
Why It Matters
- Having Berrios active provides the Giants with a proven return specialist for a high-profile opening game, enhancing special-teams performance.
- The roster move preserves flexibility, allowing the Giants to address other positional needs without risking the loss of Berrios to another team.
What’s Next
- Berrios is slated to be active for the September 13 primetime matchup at MetLife Stadium versus the Dallas Cowboys, either as a game-day elevation from the practice squad or through a full roster promotion.
