Last year’s offense for the New York Giants was prehistoric and boring. And on top of that, it didn’t work. But this year’s scheme called by offensive coordinator, Mike Kafka, should be the opposite. The offense will be spread out, with lots of motion before the snap. It will be much more fluid and creative. Rookie wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson is a dream fit for an offense like this one as he is extremely versatile. He is electric on the field and plays with a chip on his shoulder. At 5’8″, he has been doubted his entire life. But everyone who has doubted him has been proven wrong thus far. He is now starting as a rookie in the National Football League after dominating in college. Robinson could have a breakout rookie season at the highest level.
College Career
Robinson began his college career at Nebraska and his versatility was on display immediately. He started some games at Wide Receiver, and others at the running back position. He put up solid numbers, but in 2021 he transferred close to home, to the University of Kentucky. His grandmother was experiencing serious post-COVID symptoms and “Dale” felt he should be around family. The decision was a good one for Robinson. He went supernova in his final year of college against SEC competition with over 100 catches for 1,334 yards. On top of his receiving numbers, he was involved in the run game and returned punts. This final season boosted him up NFL draft boards and he was selected by the Giants in the second round.
Giants Receivers Have Struggled Staying Healthy
Wan’Dale has had a great camp and has earned a starting job at the Slot Receiver position. He is expected to be heavily involved in the offense from day one, even when everyone is healthy. Unfortunately, injuries have been more than common for his fellow receivers lately. Sterling Shepard has battled injuries for his entire career. He most recently is coming off of a torn Achilles tendon that he suffered last season. Kadarius Toney has nursed a knee injury for the majority of camp after getting off-season surgery. Toney missed nine games last season due to four separate injuries. And Kenny Golladay was hurt on three different occasions last year, but only missed three games. However, he did play injured for most of the year and was not himself. The former Pro-Bowler was unable to create any separation and didn’t score a single touchdown all season.
Expectations For Wan’Dale Robinson in Rookie Season
The sky is the limit for a player like Wan’Dale. He has found himself in an offense that is creative and complementary to his strengths. The Giants have a much improved offensive line, a variety of weapons at skill positions, and a quarterback entering his fourth season. This offense has a chance to really be fun to watch this year. Even with everyone healthy, Robinson looks like he will be a big part of the offensive scheme. There is no doubt that Mike Kafka will get the ball in his hands in a multitude of ways. And if things go the way the team hopes it will, Wan’Dale Robinson could certainly have a breakout rookie year.
Unfortunately for Giants fans, it is unlikely that the weapons around quarterback Daniel Jones will stay healthy. And if injuries are the case, Robinson’s volume will only increase. It is not out of the realm of possibility that if other playmakers miss significant time, Robinson could be in the running for offensive Rookie of the Year.
