Deborah Walker
Jun 12, 2024 - 02:30

"Giants' Odd Decision Regarding Darren Waller Replacement"

New York Giants may not use Daniel Bellinger to replace retired tight end Darren Waller, opting for Theo Johnson and Lawrence Cager.

The New York Giants are facing a dilemma when it comes to replacing tight end Darren Waller. Despite the expectation that Daniel Bellinger would step up to fill the void left by Waller's retirement, Bellinger has been noticeably absent from team drills this offseason.

According to reports from The Athletic, Bellinger has been held out of team drills to give more reps to Theo Johnson and Lawrence Cager. This decision has raised eyebrows, as Bellinger is a more established option compared to the other two tight ends.

Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 255 pounds, Bellinger has the physical attributes to excel in both blocking and receiving roles. Last season, he started 13 games and showed promise as a pass-catcher, averaging 10.2 yards per reception.

While there is potential for Bellinger to be a key contributor in the passing game, the Giants may be considering a niche role for him that involves more blocking responsibilities. This strategy could open up opportunities for other tight ends on the roster to take on the receiving role previously held by Waller.

The Giants have added blocking specialists Chris Manhertz and Jack Stoll in free agency, further complicating Bellinger's path to a significant role in the offense. However, Bellinger has shown flashes of excellence as a blocker, particularly in a standout performance against the Las Vegas Raiders last season.

With Waller's retirement leaving a void in the Giants' passing attack, the team is looking to Cager and Johnson to step up. Cager, a converted wide receiver, has the skills to become a reliable target over the middle, while Johnson has already impressed with his pass-catching ability during offseason workouts.

As the Giants navigate the transition without Waller, it remains to be seen whether Bellinger will emerge as a key contributor in the offense. His unique skill set and experience could be valuable assets as the team looks to fill the void left by the Pro Bowl tight end's departure.