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New York Giants: Tight Ends To Consider In Free Agency

By Maxwell Ogden

Dec 18, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; New England Patriots tight end Martellus Bennett (88) runs after a reception in the second half against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 18, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; New England Patriots tight end Martellus Bennett (88) runs after a reception in the second half against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 16, 2016; Nashville, TN, USA; Tennessee Titans tight end Anthony Fasano (80) catches a touchdown pass defended by Cleveland Browns defensive back Jamar Taylor (21) in the second half at Nissan Stadium. Tennessee won 28-26. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 16, 2016; Nashville, TN, USA; Tennessee Titans tight end Anthony Fasano (80) catches a touchdown pass defended by Cleveland Browns defensive back Jamar Taylor (21) in the second half at Nissan Stadium. Tennessee won 28-26. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports /

Anthony Fasano

Age: 32 (4/20/1984)
Experience: 11 Seasons
2016 Season Statistics: 16 GP, 8 REC, 83 YDS, 2 TD, 6 FD

If the top priority is to find a tight end who can block for the run, then there’s no better option available than Anthony Fasano. He’s 32 years of age, but he remains the most consistent run blocker at his position—free agent or otherwise.

If Fasano, a New Jersey native, is willing to play in his home state for an affordable price, then the New York Giants should get something done.

Fasano’s production as a receiver plummeted in 2016, but that was the product of a change in his role. He had 26 receptions for 289 yards, two touchdowns, and 16 first downs in 2015, but became more of a designated blocker in 2016 opposite Delanie Walker.

In that role, Fasano flourished and firmly established himself as a veteran who has value to all 32 NFL teams—especially the Giants.

Pro Football Focus rated Fasano the No. 1 run blocker amongst tight ends with a grade of 88.1—5.0 higher than the second-leading player. Fasano is also a respectable pass blocker, which creates versatility and unpredictability on offense.

If the Giants plan to develop a younger player as the playmaker at tight end, then Fasano would be the perfect complement as a blocker.

Must Read: Tight ends to consider in the 2017 NFL Draft

The question is: should the New York Giants go the free agency route to find a tight end or embrace the draft?

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