Sep 25, 2014; Landover, MD, USA; New York Giants tight end Larry Donnell (84) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Washington Redskins in the second quarter at FedEx Field. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
3. Larry Donnell
If there’s one position that the Giants know how to handle, it’s tight end. They have managed to grab some fantastic tight ends over the years including Kevin Boss, Jeremy Shockey, and Mark Bavaro. Each have managed to be key players with their respective teams.
Larry Donnell had a breakout year in 2014. Despite struggling to make some game clinching plays, Donnell is an all around great player. Donnell needs a bit touching up from the coaches, but will definitely be of value to the Giants’ offense.
Tight ends are extremely important in the West coast offense. They benefit a lot from all of the short passes that are involved, very similar to the way Vereen will be benefitting. Donnell showed that he has promise, but must learn to handle the ball better. He has no problem catching the ball, but has a problem holding onto it.
Donnell needs to learn to take advantage of big plays and not choke. I’m confident that in his second year in Ben McAdoo’s offense, he will work out all the kinks. He is also needs to get his blocking under better control. If he works on those issues, the Giants may have found themselves a franchise tight end.
Next: Odell Beckham