The New York Giants made a series of roster moves on Saturday ahead of their Week 9 game against the San Francisco 49ers at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
As anticipated, cornerback Rico Payton was activated from injured reserve (IR) and added to the 53-man roster.
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The 25-year-old Payton, who was claimed off waivers by the Giants in August before landing on IR, went undrafted in 2024, signing with the New Orleans Saints as a rookie free agent out of Pittsburg State.
The 6-foot, 182-pound Payton has appeared in 16 games, recording 11 tackles (six solo) and one pass defensed. He has not surrendered a reception on two targets.
As a rookie, Payton took 21 snaps on defense and 245 special teams snaps, where he earned a PFF grade of 59.0. He also earned a defensive grade of 66.2, including a tackling grade of 72.5.
To make room for Payton on the active roster, the Giants placed cornerback Art Green (hamstring), who was already ruled out for the Week 9 game, on IR.
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Finally, the Giants elevated recently signed wide receiver Ray-Ray McCloud III and linebacker Zaire Barnes from the practice squad.
McCloud, who replaces Lil’Jordan Humphrey, has two evaluations remaining. For Barnes, this is his third elevation, and he has none remaining.
This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: New York Giants activate three ahead of Week 9 game vs. 49ers