As the 2015-’16 NFL season approaches, the New York Giants hope to make some positive strides forward from their recent subpar seasons. And with the offensive weapons that they have available, it looks like they are about to turn a corner and are taking steps in the right direction. If all goes well, especially with this more than capable offense, the Giants could once again be one of the better teams in the league.
2015 New York Giants Offensive Weapons
Eli Manning – The 34-year old quarterback threw 4,410 yards and 30 touchdowns while only having 14 interceptions last season. He has thrived in offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo’s system and with skilled targets such as Odell Beckham Jr., Victor Cruz, Reuben Randle, Larry Donnell, and Shane Vereen (expecting to handle the pass catching duties), Manning can definitely duplicate similar stats similar to what he produced last season. Now if the offensive line can protect and give their quarterback enough time in the pocket, the Giants may very well be a considerable threat in the NFC East. In 2016 Manning is on track on becoming an unrestricted free agent, but the Giants will most likely negotiate a new contract with two-time Super Bowl champ.
Odell Beckham Jr. – OBJ has emerged as one of the premier wide receivers in the league. Even after missing the first four games of last season with an injured hamstring, he still went on to have an incredible season, grabbing 91 catches for 1,305 yards and 12 touchdowns. The rookie phenom broke the record for receiving yards and most receptions in a player’s first 12 games in the NFL. The 2016 Madden cover athlete has incredible upside, but as of late, has been dealing with a nagging hamstring complication. If he can stay healthy, expect another monstrous season from this remarkable athlete. Spectators are looking forward to many more sensational plays, one-handed catches, broken records, and more “whip” dance celebrations from this talented young receiver.
Victor Cruz – This past NFL season was a tough one for Cruz. He had 23 receptions for 337 yards before tearing the patellar tendon on his right knee against the Philadelphia Eagles last October. Some believe that he will never be the same as before the injury. But this is still Victor Cruz. If he can regain some semblance of good health, there will be salsa dances in the end zone once more.
Reuben Randle – The other receiver out of LSU had a solid season last year. He made 71 receptions for 938 receiving yards and three touchdowns. This was his best season yet as a New York Giant. Even though his touchdown totals were lower than last season (went down from six to three), he is still soaking up targets and should still be a productive contributor in this Giants offense.
Larry Donnell – The tight end surfaced on people’s radar after he logged in seven receptions, 54 receiving yards, and three touchdowns against the Washington Redskins. He has proven to be a viable option in the Giants’ passing game. In addition, Donnell possesses a great set of hands and impressive playmaking ability. Last season, he had 63 receptions for 623 yards and six touchdowns. Recently he has been dealing with tendonitis in his Achilles tendon, but it does not appear to be a big concern.
Shane Vereen – The newly acquired free agent continues to impress Giants personnel. He had been often utilized as the pass catcher in the backfield in his previous stretch with the New England Patriots and it looks like that is not going to change with the Giants. Eli Manning has another reliable target and with all the buzz and high praise swirling around him, Vereen is poised for a breakout season.
Rashad Jennings – The 30-year old running back has had his fair share of missed time due to injuries, especially last year with ankle problems. Even though he played in just 11 games, he still contributed 639 yards and four touchdowns. He appears to have recovered well and will be ready to handle the early down duties and short-yardage situations.
Andre Williams – His responsibilities in this Giants offense is still unclear. With Jennings expected to still be the starter and Vereen as the pass catching back, Williams has a limited role as of this moment. But if anything unfortunate were to befall Jennings or Vareen, it is safe to assume that the Boston College product will be the next man up.
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