How Larry Donnell can Improve his Play in 2015

Sep 25, 2014; Landover, MD, USA; New York Giants tight end Larry Donnell (84) catches the ball to score a touchdown as Washington Redskins strong safety Bashaud Breeland (26) defends in the second quarter at FedEx Field. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Blocking

Its great when a tight end is a good receiver. Having a tight end with speed and size can cause mismatches all over the field. Who doesn’t love a tight end catching a ball up the seam? Well, a receiving tight end is great but if he can’t block then is he really a tight end or just a slower wide receiver?

Donnell has showed his pass catching ability but he leaves a lot to be desired when it comes to his blocking. Last season the Giants were forced to bring in veteran Daniel Fells in most blocking situations due to his far superior ability to keep defenders away from Eli Manning and Giants’ running backs.

Now Fells is a very good blocker but the problem with having to bring him in to spell Donnell is the fact that it tips off defenses as to what the Giants may be trying to do. Fells did well as a receiver last season catching 16 passes for 188 yards and 4 touchdowns but most of his catches were the product of him being left open. This is no dis-credit to Fells, its just how it worked out.

If Donnell can amp up his blocking ability the Giants’ offense will be less predictable for opposing defenses. Donnell definitely possesses the size to be a good blocker at 6’5” and 270 lbs but he must become more efficient if he wants to ascend to the next level.

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