Giants continue search for wide receivers

Giants safety Antrel Rolle. (Sept. 2, 2010) Credit: AP
Tuesdays at Giants camp lately have been reserved for auditions or "cattle calls," as they are known on Broadway. Tuesday is no different as the Giants search for wide receivers to fill in at a position where Hakeem Nicks just joined fellow starter Steve Smith on the injury list.
Tom Coughlin might even consider converting a player at another position. Safety Antrel Rolle, for instance, said he's willing to serve if called upon, and Coughlin didn't rule it out.
"We're aware of Antrel's athletic skills, and we'll take everything into consideration," Coughlin said.
Asked if he could play both ways, Rolle didn't hesitate. "Absolutely," he said. "I'll be the first to tell Coach, if there's something he needs, just give me a call. I'm used to offense. I've been an offensive player my entire life."
The last time Rolle played both ways in a game was last season with the Arizona Cardinals, who used him in their wildcat offense because he also has the ability to pass the ball 60 yards. In fact, Rolle played quarterback against the Giants last season. He had one rush for 9 yards against Minnesota last year and one reception for 9 yards against St. Louis in 2008.
"They watch film," Rolle said of the Giants' coaching staff. "I played offense against them last year, so they understand what I bring to the table on the offensive side of the ball."
The Giants have a few other options. Wide receiver Duke Calhoun caught one pass for 4 yards Sunday night at Philadelphia and kick returner Darius Reynaud has worked with the receivers but never has caught an NFL pass.
Backup tight end Travis Beckum, who has 11 catches, could shift to receiver. "When he comes in the game, he draws the nickel [cornerback], so he is playing like that right now really," Coughlin said.
After backup Ramses Barden broke his ankle a week ago, the Giants worked out several wideouts, including Derek Hagan and Kevin Curtis. They signed Hagan, who caught a touchdown pass against the Eagles. Curtis has extensive NFL experience with 252 catches for 3,291 yards and 20 TDs.
Finally, there's Samuel Giguere from the Giants' practice squad. "Everyone here will be considered," Coughlin said.
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