Big Blue View
Good morning, New York Giants fans!
The standard by which John Harbaugh wants his New York Giants to be judged was set forth in the opening statement of his introductory news conference as head coach six months ago.
“To be on the biggest stage in the biggest sport, I know the challenges. I understand the expectations,” Harbaugh said. “I know the fans are hungry for a winner. We’re here with one mission: to become, to earn the right to be called the world champions in New York, and that’s what we plan to do.”
Theo Johnson. Johnson has high-end potential, but the flaws in his game have been frustrating during his first two seasons. Among tight ends last season, Johnson ranked 23rd in catches (45), 19th in yards (528) and 13th in touchdowns (5). His seven drops were tied for the league lead, and his 11.1 percent drop rate was the highest at his position. His 60.8 percent catch rate was the lowest among 34 tight ends with enough targets to qualify. With Likely poised to cut into his targets and playing time, Johnson will need to become more reliable to remain a featured piece of the offense.
3. New York Giants. John Harbaugh’s arrival has brought optimism to the Giants that they lacked in the past several seasons. The longtime head coach knows how to coax the best out of his crew and will be a stabilizing force for the club. The defense has legit playmakers up front. Brian Burns, Abdul Carter and Kayvon Thibodeaux can discombobulate quarterbacks. The loss of Dexter Lawrence hurts, but the addition of chess piece Arvell Reese provides Big Blue with a roving force in the middle. There are some questions on the back end, but if the front plays to its dominant potential in Dennard Wilson’s scheme, it will be a much-improved unit.
Jaxson Dart flashed high upside as a rookie and owns the potential for a Year 2 leap — if he can avoid big hits. When Dart was in a groove, he provided playmaking and escapability. Staying on the field will be key. Ditto for bulldozer Cam Skattebo. The offensive line, with first-rounder Francis Mauigoa filling in at guard, should be a strength if Andrew Thomas can stay healthy. The NFC East will be hotly contested, with the Eagles remaining a steady force and the Cowboys and Commanders each shoring up weaknesses this offseason. However, Harbaugh’s arrival brings belief that the Giants can swiftly turn things around.
