4 Giants who must elevate their game with Darren Waller likely gone
One of the most significant storylines for the NY Giants this summer has been veteran tight end Darren Waller, who hinted at retiring from the league earlier in the offseason after just one season with Big Blue. Losing the former Pro Bowl pass-catcher may affect the Giants' offense. Still, it will open the door for several offensive players to elevate their game and have a breakout campaign in 2024.
Waller's future with the G-Men remains uncertain, as he seems to be focusing on other aspects of his life this offseason. The 31-year-old TE has been actively pursuing his music career, a passion that has recently led him to release a new video. The song, a personal reflection on his divorce from Las Vegas Aces star Kelsey Plum, has sparked a lot of conversation, further diverting attention from his football career.
As of late, the Giants expect that Waller will officially announce his retirement ahead of mandatory minicamp, where they will need an answer from the veteran tight end about his status for this upcoming season. Should Waller retire, these players will need to step their game up for the G-Men:
4. WR Wan'Dale Robinson
If there's one offensive player who should elevate their game in 2024, it is wide receiver Wan'Dale Robinson. Pro Football Focus recently chose one player from every team as an early breakout candidate for 2024 and selected the third-year wideout to represent the Giants. The 2022 second-round draft pick has shown glimpses of his potential, but has not had a true breakout campaign due to injuries and other setbacks since entering the league.
After tearing his ACL in his rookie season and missing the first two weeks of last season, Robinson returned as a more stable option, playing 15 games and leading the team in receptions with 60. He finished with at least five receptions in three of the last five games of the campaign.
Robinson also had a career-best 115 yards from scrimmage in the 24-22 win against the Packers in Week 14. The 23-year-old wideout is in line for a breakout campaign this year, especially with Waller not there to take targets away.