NFL Notes: Giants, Lions, Patriots

Giants

• James Kratch doesn’t expect the Giants to get a long-term extension done with G Justin Pugh this season. Instead, Kratch could see the Giants waiting until next year to address his situation and possibly franchising him if needed.
• According to Kratch, a big year from C Weston Richburg could result in him being one of the highest-paid centers in the NFL and could come close to Alex Mack‘s five-year, $45M deal.
• Kratch says that this is a big year for RB Shane Vereen, who should get an opportunity to solidify himself as one of the team’s best pass-catching backs. If Vereen puts together a solid 2017 season, Kratch suggests James White‘s three-year deal worth up to $12M as a comparable deal for Vereen next year.

Lions

Lions second-round CB Teez Tabor told reporters this week that the criticism of his slow 40-yard dash times will serve has motivation for him moving forward.

“It adds fuel to the fire,” Tabor said, via DetroitLions.com. “It’s like when you tell someone they can’t do something then you’re basically making them try even harder to do what you’re telling them they can’t do.”

Tabor dropped into the middle part of round two where the Lions were able to get him with the No. 53 overall pick.

“My strength is football,” Tabor added. “I play football. I don’t run track. I’m trying out for the NFL. Not the Olympics. So, I’m in a pretty good spot.”

Patriots

• Mike Reiss confirms that there was mutual interest between the Patriots and veteran CB Jason McCourty, but their depth at cornerback impacted their willingness to bring him in.
• McCourty ultimately agreed to a two-year, $6 million contract with the Browns last week. (NFLTR)