The Darren Waller hype train is rolling steadily headed into training camp and it’s picking up more passengers by the day. Early indications are that he could help completely transform the New York Giants offense and bring them to the next level under second-year OC Mike Kafka.
But not everyone is onboard.
Alex Ballentine recently offered predictions for 32 NFL busts in 2023 and sitting right at the very top was Waller himself.
The Giants needed to upgrade the weaponry around Daniel Jones after giving him a four-year, $160 million contract this offseason. They’re hoping Darren Waller is going to be a big part of that upgrade.
On paper, Waller provides a veteran presence at a position that needed it last season. Rookie Daniel Bellinger was their top tight end with 30 receptions for 268 yards.
Waller should, of course, improve on those numbers but he’s a risky bet to rely on as a top option in the passing game at this point. The 30-year-old has missed 14 games over the last two seasons with hamstring and knee injuries.
Even when he was able to play last season he was averaging just 3.1 receptions and 43.1 yards per game. He was showing signs of decline in 2021, averaging just 7.2 yards per target.
The signs of decline have been there for two years. If the Giants think they are getting the player that posted back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons in 2019 and 2020 they are going to be disappointed.
The injury concerns are legitimate and understandable. When a player has a recent history of bangs and bruises it’s only natural to assume that trend will continue — at least until it doesn’t. The same applied to both quarterback Daniel Jones and running back Saquon Barkley in 2022 before they put up career-best campaigns.
Waller may also be on the other side of 30 but that’s hardly an indication of decline. Travis Kelce is still the NFL’s best tight end and he’s three years Waller’s elder. If Waller can remain healthy, these are still quality years.
The good news for the Giants is that Waller appeared healthy, dynamic, and spry this offseason. If that’s any indication of what’s to come, he’ll be anything but a bust in 2023.
