Giants Have Reportedly Been “Scared Off” By Anthony Spencer’s Health Concerns

Update:

A source tells Jordan Raanan of NJ.com that free agent DE Anthony Spencer‘s health has “scared off” the Giants.

• Raanan adds that Spencer is “not an option for the team at this time.”

The idea has been floated in recent days that the Spencer could return to Dallas next year, if he’s willing to similarly structured contract to the one recently signed by DT Henry Melton.

Spencer, 30, had a breakout season in 2012 while playing outside linebacker in Rob Ryan’s defense. He totaled 95 tackles, 11 sacks, two forced fumbles and a recovery that year. Pro Football Focus had him rated as the No. 1 outside linebacker in a 3-4 defense in 2012.

Unfortunately for Spencer, he suffered a season-ending ACL injury, so there are going to be some obvious questions regarding his productivity moving forward.

We have Spencer listed as the No. 5 best available player in our Top 50 Free Agents list.

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Calvin Watkins of ESPN Dallas reports that the Cowboys haven’t moved on from free agent DE/OLB Anthony Spencer due to concerns regarding his knees.

Watkins adds that the Cowboys believe he could be available to be back in time for training camp in July.

• According to Ian Rapoport, Spencer will visit with the Giants on Sunday.
• Clarence Hill reported earlier this morning that Spencer was set to visit with the Rams on Sunday.

The Giants recently signed CB Walter Thurmond and S Quintin Demps, so they have been active in shopping for value in recent days.

It’s been a few days since we’ve heard anything regarding Spencer. He reportedly visited with the Redskins a few days, but that was before they signed DT Jason Hatcher to a multi-year contract.

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Jason La Canfora reports that Cowboys free agent DE Anthony Spencer will visit with the Redskins on Thursday.

• La Canfora adds that Redskins also have interest in DT Jason Hatcher.
• Calvin Watkins of ESPN Dallas recently reported that the Cowboys would like to re-sign Spencer, but he reportedly has “at least seven teams” interested in him.

Hatcher has a strong market and has already met with the Seahawks and Raiders, so could be tough to sign.

Hatcher, 31, is expecting a sizable payday this offseason after a breakout season in 2013. Hatcher totaled 41 tackles, 11 sacks and two forced fumbles last year. He was rated as the No. 8 defensive tackle in the league this past season, according to Pro Football Focus.