New York Giants: Reasons To Love The Brandon Marshall Signing

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Oct 17, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; New York Jets wide receiver Brandon Marshall (15) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Jets 28-3. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

5. The Upside

It may seem odd for the word, “Upside,” to be attached to a player in their 30s, but Brandon Marshall has it. It may not be the conventional definition of the word, but it applies to a player in Marshall’s situation.

Marshall was legitimately dominant during the 2015 season, but regressed severely in 2016—and that’s where the upside comes into play.

Marshall finished the 2015 NFL regular season with 109 receptions, 1,502 receiving yards, 14 touchdowns, and 76 first downs. He ranked in the Top 5 in receptions and receiving yards, and was tied for No. 1 in the NFL in receiving touchdowns.

In 2016, however, Marshall amassed 59 receptions for 788 yards, three touchdowns, and 43 first downs in 15 games played.

Marshall dropped the ball at a more alarming rate than normal, but it was difficult to place the lion’s share of the blame on him for his regression. Ryan Fitzpatrick went from a high-level starter to a player who couldn’t keep the starting job, and none of his backups—plural—were any better.

With a reliable option under center in Eli Manning, it stands to reason that Marshall can produce a 1,000-yard season as a member of the New York Giants.

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