New York Giants' Rico Payton clears waivers, reverts to IR

New York Giants cornerback Rico Payton cleared waivers and reverted to injured reserve (IR) following his release with an injury designation.

>The move, which occurred on Tuesday, coincided with the team claiming defensive lineman C.J. Ravenell off waivers from the Tennessee Titans to bolster their defensive front.

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#Giants Rico Payton reverted to injured reserve from waived-injured

— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) July 8, 2026Payton, a 26-year-old undrafted free agent out of Pittsburg State, originally joined the Giants in August 2025 after being claimed off waivers from the New Orleans Saints. The 6-foot, 182-pound cornerback made the Saints' 53-man roster as a rookie in 2024, primarily contributing on special teams with 13 tackles. He appeared in nine games for New York in 2025.

>A standout at the Division II level, Payton earned All-MIAA honors and was a Cliff Harris Award finalist in 2023. Known for his special teams prowess and potential defensive depth, he had recently been spotted with a brace on his right leg, indicating a possible recent procedure.

>Unless the injury is severe enough to keep Payton out for the season, he and the Giants are likely to come to an eventual injury settlement and release.

>This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: New York Giants' Rico Payton clears waivers, reverts to IR