Giants release QB Josh Freeman six weeks after signing him

Josh Freeman's one-year deal with the Giants was worth $795,000, but only $55,000 was guaranteed. (Al Bello/Getty Images)

The New York Giants announced on Friday afternoon that the team has released backup quarterback Josh Freeman.

The 26-year-old signed with New York on April 21. His roster spot will be filled by offensive lineman Rogers Gaines, who the Giants claimed off waivers from the Chicago Bears the same day according to Michael Eisen of Giants.com. New York now heads into this summer with the same three quarterbacks they had all of last season: Eli Manning, Ryan Nassib and Curtis Painter.

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Freeman's release comes approximately a month after he said he still believes he's a starting-caliber quarterback in the NFL. The Bucs released him last October after a poor start and a tenuous relationship with Tampa Bay head coach Greg Schiano. He then started one game for the Vikings, but bad performances in Minnesota compelled the front office to part ways with him.

Freeman's one-year deal with the Giants was worth $795,000, but only $55,000 was guaranteed.