In what could be quarterback Daniel Jones’ final run with the New York Giants, all eyes will be on this offense. The 2021 season did not go to plan for the unit – that’s an understatement. While not only dealing with one of the league’s worst offensive lines, the offense as a whole normally appeared stuck. They found it impossible to move the ball at times. This upcoming season should be vastly different due to the magnitude of changes made on this side of the ball.
With a new head coach in Brian Daboll and a new offensive coordinator in Mike Kafka, the Giants were able to grab two of the game’s most sought-after offensive minds. With an offense full of so many explosive playmakers, they are in search of a way to unlock the unit. With Daboll and Kafka leading the charge, they may be able to do just that.
The Giants have made an effort in adding explosive playmakers. Players such as Saquon Barkley, Kadarius Toney, and rookie Wan’Dale Robinson are all in line to have major roles in the offense this upcoming season. It will fall onto the shoulders of Daniel Jones to make sure that they are properly utilized. With that said, here’s four guys who must step up to help him out.
4. Saquon Barkley
Running back Barkley may be the biggest factor in the success of Jones. At times, the duo of Jones and Barkley has looked great on the football field. However, injuries have often kept the pair from playing at their highest level. It is a rare occasion that the two have even been healthy at the same time.
With Barkley also potentially heading into his final season with the Giants, he will also be looking to return to form. Just a couple of seasons ago he was arguably the most dominant back in the NFL. Over his first two seasons, he recorded 3,469 yards from scrimmage and 23 total touchdowns. He was effective through both the air and ground. He recorded 143 receptions in his first two years, with 91 coming in his rookie season.
Barkley has dealt with a string of injuries over the past two seasons, ranging from a torn ACL to multiple ankle injuries. While he appeared in 13 games in 2021, he wasn’t at the level that many have come to expect. He finished the year with just 593 rushing yards, 263 receiving yards, and four total touchdowns.
Now entering 2022, all signs point to Barkley being back to 100 percent. With reports that he will be a featured part of this offense, much of their success will be reliant on how he can perform. If the pair of Jones and Barkley can stay on the field together, this offense could reach levels that they haven’t come close to in the past.