New York Giants: Three bold fantasy predictions for 2019
By Ed Stein
2. Get Evan Engram!
2018 was a huge disappointment for the New York Giants tight end. Evan Engram played in 11 games, catching 45 passes for 577 yards and a measly three touchdowns. That certainly isn’t even close to the production expected from the team’s 2017 first-round pick. As Jim Ross would say, “business is about to pick up.”
This offense, which relies on short quick hit plays, is tailor-made for someone of Engram’s talents. Even if the G-Men had their full complement of healthy wideouts, Engram would be one of Manning’s main targets. How could he not be?
Engram a mismatch for most defenders due to his dangerous combination of size and speed. Linebackers and safeties normally cover tight ends in man coverage. He has been clocked at 4.42 in the 40-yard dash, that’s way too fast for the overwhelming majority of linebackers and safeties. At 6-3, 240 pounds, the former Ole Miss standout is much too big for most cornerbacks to handle coming off the line or even spread out wide.
Now throw in an improved offensive line which will allow him more opportunities to run pass routes as well as a wounded group of wide receivers and Engram is set for success in 2019. It’s not hard to envision the tight end finishing the season with 80 plus receptions, over 1,000 yards, and eight touchdowns. If you play in a PPR league, get Engram early, he’ll pay off.