Explosive returner stays with New York after a successful 2024 season
The New York Giants have announced they are bringing back wide receiver and kick returner Ihmir Smith-Marsette on a one-year deal. Smith-Marsette made a name for himself in 2024 with his dynamic special teams play, highlighted by a 100-yard kickoff return touchdown in the Giants’ Week 17 win over the Indianapolis Colts.
Smith-Marsette, was a bright spot in an otherwise abysmal 2024 season. His 4.42 speed and ability to create explosive plays make him a valuable asse.
Originally a fifth-round pick out of Iowa by the Minnesota Vikings in the 2021 NFL Draft, Smith-Marsette has bounced around the league, spending time with five different teams before finding a home in New York. In 42 career games, he has recorded 14 receptions for 182 yards and two touchdowns, while also adding nine carries for 73 yards and another score.
With the Giants’ wide receiver depth chart still taking shape, Smith-Marsette now rejoins a group that currently includes Malik Nabers, Wan’Dale Robinson, Darius Slayton, and Jalin Hyatt. By re-signing Smith-Marsette, the Giants retain a key playmaker on special teams at the returner position, something they have struggled to find for years. Expect New York to probably be done in free agency in the receiver market after resigning Slayton and Smith-Marsette.
