The New York Giants have released offensive tackle James Hudson III and re-signed wide receiver Gunner Olszewski as the NFL offseason progresses. Hudson appeared in 11 games with two starts during his sole season on the Giants’ roster, while Olszewski was set to become an unrestricted free agent on March 11.
Olszewski’s Contributions and Role with the Giants
Last season, Olszewski played in all 16 games, mainly contributing on special teams. He returned 24 punts for 216 yards, averaging 9.0 yards per return, and 26 kickoffs for 682 yards, averaging 26.2 yards. Though his offensive snaps were limited, the 29-year-old hauled in 10 receptions for 145 yards and scored a touchdown. Notably, he also completed a 33-yard touchdown pass to quarterback Jameis Winston on a trick play versus the Detroit Lions.
In Week 18’s win over the Dallas Cowboys, Olszewski recorded eight catches for 102 yards, significantly boosting his career totals, which previously included just 17 receptions for 223 yards before the final game of the season.
Olszewski’s Journey and Special Teams Excellence
After spending the entire 2024 season on injured reserve, Olszewski returned to the Giants during training camp last year. In 2023, he played 10 games and earned NFC Special Teams Player of the Week honors following a 94-yard punt return touchdown in Week 17, the longest Giants punt return in 95 years and second longest in the franchise’s history. That season, he returned 23 punts for 273 yards at an average of 11.9 yards per return, including the touchdown.
Olszewski entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the New England Patriots, spending three seasons there. He earned first-team All-Pro honors in 2020 by leading the league with a 17.3-yard punt return average, setting a Patriots franchise record. He later spent parts of two seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers, appearing in 18 games before joining the Giants midway through last season.
Impact and Outlook for the Giants’ Special Teams
The Giants’ decision to re-sign Gunner Olszewski secures a proven special teams playmaker who can impact field position and provide occasional offensive contributions. His experience and dynamic return ability enhance the Giants’ depth moving into the upcoming season. Meanwhile, releasing James Hudson signals a shift in their offensive line strategy as they adjust their roster ahead of free agency and the draft.
“Olszewski caught eight passes for 102 yards in the Week 18 win over the Cowboys.”
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“He was named NFC Special Teams Player of the Week after his 94-yard punt return touchdown in Week 17. It was the second longest punt return in Giants history and the longest in 95 years.”
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