This is surprising from the perspective of Golden Tate. He previously in essence expressed the desire of going to a legit Super Bowl contender, in the latter stages of his NFL playing career. The Giants look a long way from being a legit Super Bowl Contender at this point in time.
I understand why a contract like this is one the Lions didn't want to give Tate. It's a contract I would have been comfortable the Lions giving him because of the tangible and intangible value of Tate, combined.