One of the goals of the New York Giants this offseason was to upgrade their weapons offensively. There were a lot of issues on the offensive side of the ball in 2023, as quarterback play was underwhelming at times and the offensive line was not good.
But, when things clicked, the unit was still stuck in the mud as they lacked game-breaking playmakers. The only one they had was running back Saquon Barkley, who is now suiting up for the rival Philadelphia Eagles after signing with them in free agency.
Looking to fill that void, the Giants selected LSU star wide receiver Malik Nabers with the No. 6 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Nabers has been incredible at training camp, turning heads with his performance.
Whether it is New York’s defense or the Detroit Lions in joint practice, no one has been able to slow him down. That provides the fans with something to get excited about, as he has the potential to be the team’s best weapon since Odell Beckham Jr.
Alas, Nabers isn’t the only rookie to keep an eye on at the skill positions. Another player is tight end Theo Johnson. Johnson was highlighted by Ari Mierov of The 33rd Team in a piece about intriguing players to watch throughout training camp.
“We saw the Giants front office speak very highly of Theo Johnson during the offseason version of Hard Knocks, and it seems they plan to give him a chance to get on the field early in his young career.
The Giants could use him, especially after Darren Waller retired this offseason. At 6-foot-6, 259 pounds, Johnson has showcased reliable hands and the skill to navigate intermediate routes with fluidity,” Meirov wrote.
Rookie tight ends breaking through are rare; players selected at the position in the fourth round doing it is even rarer. But, that looks like it could occur with Johnson, who has drawn rave reviews during his first offseason as a pro.
The Giants had high hopes that Darren Waller could become a go-to weapon in the passing game. Injuries hurt him in 2023 and now that he is retired, there is a sizable void to fill in the lineup. The expectation is that Johnson will eventually take over as the go-to receiver in the position.
Ahead of him currently on the depth chart is Daniel Bellinger, entering Year 3 of his career. The Giants also signed veterans Jack Stoll and Chris Manhertz in free agency for experienced depth and blocking expertise.
Tyree Jackson, a converted college quarterback, provides some intriguing given his size and athleticism. New York could look to develop him as well, but Johnson has the look of their tight end of the future.
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