Giants sign ex-Aussie rules player to handle punting

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- Seeking a possible replacement if they can't re-sign punter Jeff Feagles, the New York Giants have signed former Australian rules football player Jy Bond.

The deal was announced Thursday afternoon, though contract details were not disclosed.

The 30-year-old Bond signed with the Miami Dolphins last season but was released in June. He then trained with fellow Aussie punters Sav Rocca of the Philadelphia Eagles and former NFL player Darren Bennett.

Bond was raised in the suburbs of Melbourne, and both his father and grandfather played elite level Australian Rules Football. Bond played at the semiprofessional level and won several club and competition honors.

Feagles, who is a free agent, has been the Giants punter for seven seasons.