When the New York Giants embarked on their post-draft spending spree at the wide receiver position, the Braxton Berrios signing didn't draw much attention. Naturally, the return of Odell Beckham Jr. was the focus, with Berrios drifting into the background.
The veteran slot receiver has come to be considered more of a return specialist than anything else in recent years. His production on offense has tapered off, replaced by a steady gig on special teams.
His impact on special teams will likely be what gets him in the door for the Giants, but Berrios has a chance to break into a wide-open receiver rotation in training camp.
Giants' Braxton Berrios can be more than a return specialist
At the peak of his NFL career, Berrios was both a reliable kick returner and a shifty slot receiver. In 2021, he logged over 1,200 total yards between the two roles, earning 60 targets on the New York Jets.
The 30-year-old has carved out a seven-year career by contributing in both areas, but he has become much more of a return specialist since leaving the Jets. He didn't catch a pass for the Miami Dolphins in 2024 and only drew eight targets for the Houston Texans in 2025.
To be clear, that special teams prowess is likely the reason the Giants signed him this offseason. New York's kick returner spot is relatively open after the exit of Ihmir Smith-Marsette. Berrios will compete with Calvin Austin III, Deonte Banks, and Devin Singletary for kick and punt return roles.
But if he's able to win a spot on the roster, he could contribute on offense, in addition to what he brings on special teams. The G-Men are currently expected to start Austin in the slot, but the 162-pound receiver's reliability as a full-time player has to be in question.
Big Blue could benefit from keeping a second slot receiver on the roster. That battle would come down to Berrios and JuJu Smith-Schuster, another late-offseason addition who has split time between the slot and the boundary at recent stops.
Smith-Schuster has the advantage, especially after spending two seasons with Matt Nagy in Kansas City, but don't count Berrios out just yet. The veteran receiver could still overtake Smith-Schuster with a strong training camp performance, earning a surprise spot on the 53-man roster.
Kick return skills aren't going to be enough for Berrios this offseason. He needs to show that he can contribute as a rotational receiver.
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