Giants: Pact reached with Chiefs lineman Parker

03/24/00

By Paul Needell
STAFF WRITER

The Giants added the veteran experience, depth and versatility they've been seeking for their offensive line yesterday when they agreed in principle on a salary-cap friendly, seven-year contract with Chiefs free-agent guard-tackle Glenn Parker, a person familiar with the negotiations has confirmed. The deal includes a $1 million signing bonus.

A potential casualty of the imminent signing will probably be Scott Gragg, the Giants' starting right tackle since 1996. With a prohibitive salary of $2.5 million in 2000, Gragg figures to become a salary-cap victim. Parker provides insurance should 1999 No. 1 pick Luke Petitgout falter at right tackle.

The Giants could save $2.5 million under the cap by releasing Gragg after June 1, or about $1.2 million if he is cut before then. Gragg has two years left on his contract and the final prorated portion of his signing bonus, worth just under $1.3 million, would be accelerated into the 2000 cap if he is cut prior to June 1.

Parker, who will be 34 on April 22, spent his first seven seasons with the Bills before signing with the Chiefs in 1997. The 6-5, 303-pounder from Arizona has started at every front-line position except center during his career and was named Kansas City's team MVP in 1998, when he started at left tackle, right tackle and left guard.