New York Giants: Five Reasons Eli Manning Should Have A Career-Year

2. Go Up And Get It

It can’t be stated how important it is for a quarterback to have a target who can go up and win jump balls. It’s why the New England Patriots always seem to have a nastier edge when Rob Gronkowski is on the field for Tom Brady to gamble with.

In 2017, Eli Manning will have not one, but three separate targets whom he can realistically trust in said situations—both in and before the end zone.

Odell Beckham Jr. may be 5’11”, but his one-handed catches are more than just spectacles; they’re examples of how capable he is of winning the 50-50 balls. He creates separation as well as any receiver in the NFL, but when he’s stuck in coverage, he can still make a play.

In a pair of savvy offseason moves, general manager Jerry Reese found Manning two other targets who can do the same—both of whom have the natural size to do so.

Brandon Marshall is a 6’4″ and 230-pound Goliath of a wide receiver who has made a living out of physically overwhelming opponents. Evan Engram is a 6’3″ tight end who may lack some bulk, but has the natural athleticism to overwhelm linebackers and safeties alike.

Manning should only gamble when it’s necessary, but he now has three targets who can bail him out or go up and get the ball—an embarrassment of red zone riches.