Giants Adjust Offense Post-Nabers Injury
Can the Giants really utilize three tight ends on every snap? Or maybe even four?
After losing Malik Nabers to a torn ACL, the Giants decided to shake things up on offense. In their recent matchup against the Saints, backup tight end Daniel Bellinger logged more snaps—38—than either receiver Jalin Hyatt (34) or Beaux Collins (28).
In fact, about half of the 73 offensive plays featured both Bellinger and tight end Theo Johnson on the field together.
“Honestly, whether you label them tight ends or receivers doesn’t matter much to me,” commented coach Brian Daboll. “What’s important is that these young players handle their responsibilities. They’re putting in the work. Sure, the personnel might dictate our approach, but they all need to be game-ready.”
When you think about it, considering that Hyatt and Collins didn’t really step up to prevent an interception from Jackson, sticking with a heavier depth could be the way to go.
Receiver Darius Slayton’s hamstring injury might further complicate things as the Giants prepare for the Eagles on Thursday. Maybe the coaching staff will give Gunner Olszewski a shot or elevate Lil’Jordan Humphrey from the practice squad. Who knows?
“We’re very confident in our receiving group,” said offensive coordinator Mike Kafka. “We had chances, but we just didn’t capitalize.”
Interestingly, the Giants could potentially bring in new players from other teams for quick reinforcements this season.
One name floating around is Isaiah Hodgins, who’s currently on the Steelers’ practice squad and might be tempted to join the Giants’ 53-man roster.
“Our coaching staff excels at preparing guys, whether they’re on the roster or not,” Kafka added. “They stay engaged with the game plan, participating in meetings and walkthroughs, always ahead of the curve.”
Meanwhile, both the Giants and Eagles are expected to submit their injury reports. Although neither team practiced ahead of Thursday’s session, it’s crucial to keep tabs on injury statuses.
For the Giants, Slayton, RT Jermaine El Emnor, LB Swayze Bozeman, and LB Demetrius Flannigan Fowles could miss time. Others like Dart, S Dane Belton, S Jevón Holland, S Tyler Nubin, CB Dru Phillips, and RB Tyrone Tracy Jr. have seen limited participation.
In a more positive note, CB Deonte Banks seems to be getting comfortable with handling kickoffs, having returned four for 129 yards recently. However, he did have a mishap on one of Olszewski’s returns.
“I wouldn’t say it’s a lack of effort,” said special teams coordinator Michael Gobraial. “Developing a returner also involves honing the skills of those blocking for him. It’s about learning where to be and how to respond quickly. But I’m confident that Tae will address these issues right away.”
