Decisions Loom for Giants and Jets: Will Daniel Bellinger and John Simpson Stay for 2026?

As the NFL offseason heats up, two of New York's franchises—the New York Giants and New York Jets—are weighing crucial decisions about retaining key contributors. Tight end Daniel Bellinger and offensive lineman John Simpson both enter contract years, and their respective teams must decide whether to invest in their futures or seek alternatives.

Giants: Is Daniel Bellinger Part of the Long-Term Plan?

Drafted in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of San Diego State, Daniel Bellinger joined the Giants as a developmental prospect. Early expectations were measured, with analysts noting his raw talent and potential but also his need for further refinement. Since then, Bellinger has worked to carve out a role in a crowded tight end room.

• Bellinger has contributed as both a blocker and receiver, offering versatility but not yet elite production.
• His rookie contract runs through the 2025 season, after which he would become a free agent if not extended.
• The Giants must evaluate whether Bellinger's growth trajectory justifies a new contract or if they should seek new options at tight end.

While his statistics have not vaulted him into the league's upper echelon at his position, Bellinger's dependability and team-first approach have been lauded by coaches and teammates. The key question for the Giants front office is whether his upside merits a multi-year investment given the team's evolving offensive needs.

Jets: John Simpson's Durability and Value

On the other side of MetLife Stadium, the Jets face a decision with starting offensive lineman John Simpson. Since arriving in New York, Simpson has been a model of reliability, not missing a single game in two seasons. His consistency has made him a fixture on the line, a unit often plagued by injuries and turnover across the league.

• Simpson's durability stands out: two full seasons without missing a game.
• The Jets must consider both his on-field value and the salary cap implications of a possible extension.
• Simpson's veteran presence could be critical for protecting the quarterback and stabilizing the offense.

As the Jets evaluate their long-term roster plans, they must weigh Simpson's health and experience against the potential costs of a new contract and the possibility of exploring younger or cheaper alternatives through the draft or free agency.

Comparing the Stakes: Impact on Team Building

For both the Giants and Jets, these decisions are about more than individual players—they reflect broader team-building philosophies. Investing in homegrown or proven talent provides continuity but can limit flexibility under the salary cap. Moving on from established players creates opportunities to get younger or more dynamic but introduces uncertainty and risk.

• Bellinger offers familiarity and versatility but has yet to become a true difference-maker.
• Simpson brings durability and veteran leadership to a position group where availability is often as valuable as talent.

Both teams must balance internal development with external options. The upcoming free agency period and the 2026 draft will provide further context for these pivotal choices.

Looking Ahead: What Will the Giants and Jets Do?

As of now, neither the Giants nor the Jets have made definitive public statements about their intentions. The coming months will be critical as contract negotiations, roster evaluations, and salary cap considerations play out. For fans, the situations of Daniel Bellinger and John Simpson will serve as bellwethers for each organization's strategy heading into the 2026 NFL season.

Ultimately, these decisions underscore the challenges NFL teams face in balancing continuity and change. As the offseason unfolds, all eyes in New York will be on the moves the Giants and Jets make regarding two of their most reliable contributors.