New York Giants: Evan Engram will be Daniel Jones’ secret weapon

New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones is garnering well-deserved praise after a monumental comeback victory over Tampa Bay, one player that has flown under the radar is a third-year tight end, Evan Engram.

After being selected with the 23rd overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, Evan Engram has been solid if not average throughout his first two NFL seasons, with his 2nd year being shortened due to a knee injury. The New York Giants have continued to start Engram through his inconsistencies and injuries, and it has paid off. The 25-year-old is having a breakout year, having already accumulated 277 receiving yards and two touchdowns in just three games.

One aspect of Engram’s game that hasn’t changed is his blazing speed, which is one of the reasons that made him a first-round draft choice. He ran the 3rd fastest 40-yard dash time by a tight end in combine history, and his agility has indeed translated to the pros. While his speed has stayed consistent, the other parts of his game weren’t as polished. This year, they’re looking better than ever.

A significant reason for his breakout is his durability, as he’s played in a little under 90% of all offensive snaps this year, as compared to just 77% in his first two seasons in the NFL. This not only helps Engram boost his stats, but it also allows the New York Giants and their offensive game plan due to his availability.

Engram has also flashed his underrated catching ability, which is reaching new heights in this young season. His catch percentage is at 77% this year, which is a vast improvement from the 55% he recorded in his rookie year. Not only is the former Mississippi product staying on the field for much longer, but he’s also continually making plays.

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While the New York Giants picked up a huge win that may have potentially saved their season, a significant blow to their hopes came in the form of an ankle injury to star running back Saquon Barkley.

How does this news affect Engram? With Barkley sidelined, rookie quarterback Daniel Jones is going to need a new safety valve whenever the pocket collapses in on him. Although backup running back Wayne Gallman is a serviceable pass catcher, Jones should look to his tight end in spots where he needs to make a quick decision. Engram should be able to use his 6’3″, 240-pound frame to provide a large target for Jones whenever he’s in a pinch. They already seem to have chemistry together, as evidenced by his strong performance against Tampa Bay.

Evan Engram is currently 8th in the entire league in receiving yards, and he’s 2nd among tight ends. Although he likely won’t finish with his projected totals of 1,477 yards and 11 touchdowns, it’s clear that his hot start isn’t a fluke.

With a new quarterback and lots of opportunities ahead of him, it wouldn’t be hard to imagine Engram suiting up for his first career Pro Bowl appearance at the end of this season.