Despite a disappointing season for the New York Giants and being replaced at tight end in consecutive years, Daniel Bellinger’s confidence remains intact. The third-year tight end has become a more critical piece for Big Blue during the season’s homestretch, stepping up amidst a wave of injuries after a quiet first half with limited opportunities.
Drafted in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of San Diego State, Bellinger showed promise during his rookie season. He recorded 30 receptions for 268 yards and three touchdowns in 12 starts, playing a pivotal role in helping the Giants secure a playoff berth. Many believed Bellinger would continue to be a significant part of the offense for years to come.
2022 RD4 pick Daniel Bellinger started 12 games as a productive rookie. Arrow up.
— Ryan Dunleavy (@rydunleavy) December 14, 2024
Since then? #Giants have replaced him twice.
He’s needed again now, https://t.co/GjpGpm6lsc
“I feel like I have the ability to do whatever any tight end can do. My confidence hasn’t fluctuated.’
However, following the 2022 season, the Giants traded a third-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft—acquired from the Kansas City Chiefs in the Kadarius Toney trade—to the Las Vegas Raiders for Pro Bowl tight end Darren Waller. While the move initially made sense, Waller’s stint in New York lasted just one year, prompting the Giants to draft Penn State tight end Theo Johnson ahead of this season.
Johnson emerged as the team’s primary tight end, but a season-ending foot injury has opened the door for Bellinger to seize a larger role in the final stretch. Last week against the Saints, Bellinger logged 61 snaps, catching five of his eight receptions this season for 45 of his 76 total yards. His usage is expected to rise as the Giants turn to him in these crucial weeks.
Daniel Bellinger can be a big asset for the New York Giants down the stretch
When the Giants put their trust in Bellinger, he does exciting things. And even though the team has looked for alternative options over the last two years at his position, the veteran has stayed confident about his ability to contribute and impact the offense.
The last time Bellinger found the end zone was during Week 6 of the 2022 season, when the Giants defeated the Baltimore Ravens 24-20 at MetLife Stadium. In that game, Bellinger had a late fourth-quarter touchdown—his third in a five-game span—that pulled the Giants within one score. Saquon Barkley’s one-yard rushing touchdown sealed the comeback victory.
This Sunday, the Ravens return to MetLife Stadium, marking the 37th game since Bellinger’s last touchdown. The veteran tight end will look to replicate his performance from two years ago and help the Giants secure their first home win of the season. With Tommy DeVito under center, Bellinger could be a key target in the passing game against Baltimore. Don’t be surprised if he makes his presence felt this week.