Exactly, and I'm wondering why people don't realize this.

They HAD a top-tier TE, and TRADED him.

If they felt that a top TE was essential to winning, they would have kept him.

And considering they won the SB last year without one, I'd say they were correct in their decision making.

They traded him 'cause they liked what they saw in Kevin Boss his rookie season. He hasn't lived up to their expectations thus far this season, and they probably feel he needs another season or two.

That had more to do with Shockey being a malcontent and a distraction to the team. Shockey isn't even close to being on the same level as TG so calling him a top-tier TE is a reach.

So, you think the Giants are going to give up draft picks for TG just because Boss isn't having a great year?

People in this city completely overvalue the TE position...

It's not that the TE position is being overvalued it's that the Giants are in the most competitive division in football. They have the luxory of a very explosive offense and TG could add another dimension that could possibly put them over the top.

I didn't say anything about the Giants trading for TG. I merely suggested why they got rid of Shockey- and that is they like what they see in Boss.

I agree the Giants could USE him but they don't NEED him at all. The Bills are better off trading for him or the Vikings, Eagles etc.

If they end up with Tony, the eagles and redskins wont. Not saying that they are in the market for them, but....

It depends on the offense. Just because the Giants don't use the TE a lot does not mean that it's not an important position. The Patriots drafted both Ben Watson and Daniel Graham in the 1st round (and David Thomas in the 3rd) and they're not exactly stupid. Bill Parcells has talked extensively about the importance of a good tight end.

The real issue is Tony's age, contract, and loss of speed.

They use Watson and whatever TE to block and not catch. Watson would be a solid all around TE if they actually threw to him.

When is the deadline? I know it's today, but what time?

Over the top of what?

They are the DEFENDING SB CHAMPIONS.

A championship they won WITHOUT an elite TE.

The Giants are smart not to give up the ransom they got from the Saints on Gonzalez. You don't trade 2 draft picks on a 32 year old TE that you don't need - and that you may only be renting for the next year and a half.

3:00 central.

3pm CST

That's what I'm trying to say. I would otherwise agree that the TE position isn't as signifigant. But for a division like the NFC east I could see where it could make a difference. An aging TG is still tough to defend in the red zone.