New York Giants sign veteran CB Leon Hall

The New York Giants signed veteran cornerback Leon Hall to a one-year contract on Thursday.

The deal will reportedly pay the 31-year-old close to $2 million.

"Leon is one of the versatile veteran corners that we had targeted during the free agency period," general manager Jerry Reese said. "He was very impressive at the workout Wednesday, he brings tons of experience, and also brings veteran leadership to our defense."

The 5-foot-11, 195-pound Hall spent his first nine NFL seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals, but his status was in limbo after undergoing offseason back surgery. He reportedly chose the Giants over returning to the Bengals.

"I'm a little nervous, naturally, but definitely anxious and excited," Hall said. "I've been working out, but it's different when you're not with a team and training camp. Everybody started last week, so I've been watching on TV. Sitting around watching is not fun, so I'm excited to actually put some cleats on again.

"It's a little bittersweet, but it's exciting. Everything is going to be a little different, but sometimes different is good. I'm excited for the opportunity."

Hall, a first-round pick in 2007, had 26 interceptions in 121 career games for the Bengals. He had a career-best six interceptions in 2009.

With the Giants, Hall is expected to primarily compete for snaps at the nickel position. They team has veteran Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and free agent addition Janoris Jenkins set to start on the outside, with rookie first-round pick Eli Apple, Trevin Wade, Leon McFadden, and three rookie free agents on the roster.

"We see him playing a lot of inside football for us, serving as a nickel," coach Ben McAdoo said. "But never say never when a guy has a chance to move around."

The Giants waived cornerback Tramain Jacobs to open up a roster spot for Hall.