3 reasons why the hype around Darren Waller is real for the NY Giants

One of the major talks of the NY Giants' offseason has been the addition of tight end Darren Waller, who was acquired in a trade with the Las Vegas Raiders. The buzz only grew for the veteran tight end following his spectacular debut vs. the Lions in last week's preseason win. He comes to Big Blue after spending the last five years with the Raiders.

After witnessing the newly acquired offensive weapon go through practices and Giants training camp this offseason, it's safe to say from our chair that the hype about Waller is real. So, just how good can he be moving forward? Here are three reasons for fans to be excited about his potential:

3. The veteran has proven to succeed at this level

Waller broke out with the Raiders in 2019, posting 1,145 receiving yards on 90 receptions and three touchdowns in 16 games. His impeccable performance led to the tight end finishing third in the NFL AP Comeback Player of the Year voting.

Waller would follow up his breakout performance in 2019 with a second consecutive 1,000-plus-yard season. In 2020, Waller totaled nine touchdowns,107 receptions, and 1,196 yards. He would go on to earn Pro Bowl recognition for the first time in his NFL career.

There has only been one tight end in New York Giants franchise history to surpass 1,000 receiving yards in a single season. Big Blue legend Mark Bavaro posted 1,001 yards in 1986, which helped lead the team to their first Super Bowl victory.

With his proven success at the professional level, Waller could become the second Giants tight end to surpass this milestone in 2023. Those are some lofty expectations for him, but NY supporters have full belief in him.

2. Darren Waller is the healthiest he's been in years

While Waller succeeded during his tenure with the Las Vegas Raiders, he struggled to stay healthy the last two seasons. Waller was sidelined with multiple injuries and only combined for 20 games and 17 starts. This means he has missed 17 games the past two campaigns: not good.

Despite the recent injuries, Waller appears to be in excellent condition this summer and has impressed head coach Brian Daboll and offensive coordinator Mike Kafka. Many Big Blue fans believe he will return to his old form and exceed expectations this year.

Not only is Waller the healthiest he has been in years, his stock has skyrocketed throughout camp. The veteran tight end has created challenges for the Giants' defensive units to cover and has already developed chemistry with quarterback Daniel Jones.

The tight end immediately emerges as the Giants' primary receiving target, changing how opposing teams prepare to play Big Blue. We saw how dominant Waller can be in his lone series vs. the Panthers. Could more strong play from him be on the way? We think so.

The hope is that Big Blue's offense continues to improve, and Waller is a significant part of it. If he can stay healthy for the 17-game regular season slate this year, Waller could lead the Giants in several receiving statistics and break a few team records.

1. Darren Waller and Daniel Jones are building strong chemistry

Since joining the Giants organization, Waller has connected with Jones on and off the field. The duo's relationship has blossomed throughout training camp over the last two weeks. What they were able to get done in the preseason win too was special to see.

In a recent interview with ESPN, Jones recalled receiving the good news that the team had acquired Waller earlier this offseason from Giants' general manager Joe Schoen.

"I was fired up. I was even more fired up when I saw him on the field."

Daniel Jones on Darren Waller

On the first day of training camp, Waller showed Giants fans what they could expect from him in 2023. The veteran tight end connected with Jones for three touchdowns in the red zone, including a circus catch at the goal line. Waller could not be stopped by anyone on Big Blue's defense and put his size and athleticism on display for everyone in attendance.

Waller has quickly learned the Giants' offensive system this offseason, which should benefit the G-Men this season. He continues to work with Jones, Daboll, and Kafka to take Big Blue's offense to the next level, and we can expect a successful season if he manages to stay healthy. Things are looking great for Waller thus far. Countless Big Blue fans can't wait to see him in the regular season.

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