The New York Giants informed safety Antoine Bethea on Wednesday that they aren’t exercising his option for 2020.
Bethea will immediately become a free agent and releasing him will save the Giants $2.75 million against the salary cap, according to Jordan Raanan of ESPN. The Giants’ cap space is currently just under $17 million, according to Scott Thompson of SNY.
The Giants signed Bethea to a two-year deal last offseason. Last season, he led the Giants with 110 tackles (81 solo) and had one interception, six defended passes, and two fumble recoveries.
In his career, Bethea has 1,333 tackles, 9.5 sacks, 25 interceptions, nine forced fumbles, seven fumble recoveries, and a defensive touchdown. He is a three-time Pro Bowler and won a Super Bowl with the Indianapolis Colts.
The Giants will need another safety to help out Jabrill Peppers. Julian Love and Ha Ha Clinton-Dix are two options while many other possibilities could surface via free agency, the draft, or a trade.
