Every year pundits and forecasters try to predict which NFL players will have significantly better seasons than expected. This year is no different.
In a recent list of 10 players who are in a “perfect position to succeed” in 2023, CBS Sports’ Garrett Podell places New York Giants tight end Darren Waller at the top of the list.
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The Giants acquired Waller from the Las Vegas Raiders for a third-round draft pick last season. So far, he and quarterback Daniel Jones have shown a special kind of synergy.
The Daniel Jones-Darren Waller duo could set the stage for fireworks, as Jones had the eighth-highest passing rate in the entire NFL when throwing to tight ends, but last season he targeted it at the league’s 31st-highest rate.
Waller could also help unlock Jones’ high ball, as he had seven catches from 20 or more yards in the field, the most among any tight ends in 2022, despite missing eight games. The Giants also ranked in the top 10 red-zone offenses in the NFL a year ago, converting 63.3% of their red-zone drives into touchdowns — the seventh-highest rate in the NFL — despite not having a strong physique like that Catfish featured a 6-foot-6, 255-pound frame to cast it on. It’s safe to say that Daboll will enjoy Waller’s route concepts.
Waller will be the clear No. 1 option for the Giants rather than having to fight All-Pro receiver Davante Adams for the spotlight and goals like 2022 like in Las Vegas, on a receiver core that includes Isaiah Hodgins and Darius include Slayton and Parris Campbell are other likely starters. Everything is set up for Waller to have a monster 2023 season.
With Jones in his second season in the Brian Daboll/Mike Kafka system and Saquon Barkley in full health, the Giants’ offense is generally ready to go. However, Waller will be at the heart of the passing game as the Giants take advantage of the inconsistencies he created.
Source : giantswire.usatoday.com