Report: Giants expect to sign WR Stokley

The New York Giants Thursday are expected to finalize the signing of wide receiver Brandon Stokley, who played a big role in dashing their Super Bowl hopes a decade ago.

With Steve Smith now with the Philadelphia Eagles, and Domenik Hixon and Victor Cruz unimpressive in their season debuts, the Giants will sign the 35-year-old veteran to play in the slot.

The five-foot-11, 197-pound player, entering his 13th season, agreed to terms with the Washington Redskins in late July but backed out of the deal.

Cruz and Hixon struggled in the Giants' season opener -- Cruz was targeted twice but didn't catch a pass (and had a drop); Hixon made two catches for 21 yards.

Hixon expressed confidence Wednesday that he could handle the slot role. Now Stokley, who caught 31 passes for 354 yards in 11 games for Seattle last season, will be added to the mix.

Stokley tried out for the Giants Wednesday, along with ex-Pro Bowler T.J. Houshmandzadeh and former Jets receiver David Clowney.

Stokley's best season was in 2004 with the Colts, when he caught 68 passes for 1,077 yards. His best moment came with Baltimore in Super Bowl XXXV, when he hauled in a 38-yard touchdown against the Giants in the Ravens' 34-7 victory.

The Giants also could feel they need an extra wideout because Hakeem Nicks is dealing with a bone bruise and a hyperextended knee. Nicks said he thinks he'll be able to play Monday, but he could be hampered.

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