In methodical fashion, the Giants continue to be one of the more active teams during this free agency signing period. They have already signed four players and are close to terms with defensive tackle Martin Chase, who fits into their philosophy of seeking depth along their lines.

Chase, 29, is a five-year NFL veteran who has played for the Ravens, Saints and spent last season with the Redskins, where he started two games before playing sparingly because of a calf injury. The 6-2, 310-pound Chase has seven starts in 54 career games and just one sack.

“We’re getting real close,” said Neil Schwartz, Chase’s agent, about a potential deal with the Giants. “There’s been serious interest.”

Chase will not command the six-year, $20 million contract given to another defensive tackle, Fred Robbins. It’s likely Chase will get a two-year deal.

With Cornelius Griffin lost to the Redskins and Keith Hamilton retired, the Giants need bodies at defensive tackle. The Giants gave Robbins a signing bonus of $4 million, making it likely he’ll get every chance to win a starting job.

Chase would come as a backup who could challenge for time with either Robbins or last year’s first-round draft pick, William Joseph, who was a non-factor as a rookie.

The Giants could also make the defensive line a priority in the upcoming draft.