New York Giants need rookie WR Darius Slayton in the lineup

The New York Giants are dealing with various issues at the wide receiver position that ranges from injuries to suspensions. Rookie Darius Slayton has an excellent opportunity to excel this season.

The depth chart at wide receiver for the New York Giants has taken more than a share of issues with only a few weeks left before kickoff weekend. The team will probably be getting rookie wide receiver Darius Slayton back in the lineup after missing practice time due to a hamstring injury.

Slayton was a 5th round pick for the Giants in this year’s draft out of the University of Auburn catching the eye of general manager Dave Gettleman. He was expected to be a bit of a longshot to make the team heading into training camp because of the veterans expected to return from last season’s team. Corey Coleman‘s season-ending ACL tear along with Golden Tate‘s pending suspension has increased Slayton’s once slim odds of securing a roster spot.

The 22-year-old impressed coaches during rookie minicamp back in May but has been sidelined most of training camp because of the bad hamstring. The injury forced Slayton to miss the preseason opening win over the New York Jets, and his status has slightly been upgraded for Friday night against the Chicago Bears. The eagerness to be on the field was apparent when Slayton spoke with reporters during the week about his potential impact on the field.

"“You still go out there and kind of let them come to you,” he said. “You play your role and the big plays will come. I’m not going out there trying to make every spectacular play, but sure enough, if one presents itself, I plan to make it.”"

Slayton is a known speedster that can create separation down the field for Eli Manning to start the season possibly in the slot. The suspension for Tate will create an opening for a healthy Slayton to make plays in his place, but it will need to happen at practice and in the preseason to impress the coaching staff.

The team will continue to evaluate the receiver position before the season begins, and the option of signing a veteran is always possible if young players like Slayton don’t work out. If the Giants are serious about rebuilding and changing the culture, they will push to develop the young core in hopes of finding another diamond in the rough like Victor Cruz years ago.