This offseason, one of the most significant inquiries for the New York Giants was Darren Waller. Prior to being acquired, Waller played for the Las Vegas Raiders for five seasons where he was recognized as one of the best tight ends in the NFL. One of his biggest concerns as a player was always his health. Unfortunately, in the seven seasons Waller has played he’s only finished two of those seasons. That said, the Giants appeared to have bypassed all that, and absolutely love what he brings to this offense.
When healthy, Waller has proven to terrorize defenses with his unique size and athleticism. He often causes matchup issues because he has the capabilities to run routes like an elite wide receiver, however he has the size and strength similar to a linebacker or offensive lineman. Not to mention, his red zone presence and irreplaceable. Therefore, he was inquired by the Giants to feel several holes and will help them down the field offensively. Last season, the Giants ranked fifth overall in red zone offense, per sources, and the addition of Waller will only improve that going forward.
Yesterday evening, Giants assistant head coach Brandon Brown spoke highly of what Waller brings to the Giants and is excited to utilize him in the offense.
“We did our due diligence and research, we knew some fringe red zone he can be a key mismatch piece,” Brown explains. “He’s someone who we call the ‘problem creator’. Look at what he can do by opening the field up for the rest of our guys, he can open up the field laterally and vertically for this offense.
“It’s one of those things where he becomes a force multiplier because he doesn’t only get better, but he also makes other players better around him,” Brown continues.