7 New York Giants who could become first-time Pro Bowlers in 2018
By Henry Buggy
No. 5 – Evan Engram
New York’s rookie tight end didn’t make the Pro Bowl in his first season, but he did set a franchise record.
Evan Engram broke Bob Tucker’s touchdown record for a New York Giants rookie tight end, recording six touchdown receptions. The first-round pick out of Ole Miss struggled with dropped passes but also proved himself a reliable red zone target for Manning.
Eli Manning & Evan Engram were quick to form a red-zone bond in 2017.
— PFF NY Giants (@PFF_Giants) June 6, 2018
Eli completed 6-of-8 passes, including 5 TDs, when targeting @EvanEngram in the red zone last season. 🎯🔥 https://t.co/KoP4ReIGwj
If Engram is able to improve his blocking skills and reduce his dropped passes in year two, he could easily be a Pro Bowl candidate. Of course, the Giants will have to have a competitive offense for that to happen.
The return of Beckham can be seen as both a positive and a negative for Engram’s chances to earn Pro Bowl honors in 2018. OBJ’s presence should open the field for all of New York’s receivers. It also likely means fewer targets.
It will be up to Engram to make the most of his opportunities.
Sterling Shepard also has a valid argument to make this list over others. The Giants third-year receiver has proven himself a valuable weapon. But with so many options, Beckham and Engram should have the best odds among New York’s receivers to earn Pro Bowl honors.
Engram’s ability to reel in touchdown receptions in the red zone will likely be the difference maker. Pro Bowl voters love players who find the end zone.