The New York Giants didn't make a substantial move to improve their tight end group in the offseason. General manager Jerry Reese seems to be confident their in-house options will surprise people.
The Giants likely will hit training camp with a group that includes Daniel Fells, Xavier Grimble, Larry Donnell, Adrien Robinson and Kellen Davis. The five players split reps during the Giants' offseason program.
"I think the jury is still out on who the No. 1 tight end is, I think it'll probably be tight end by committee," Reese said Monday on WFAN-AM (via NJ.com). "But there are some really good tight ends, some athletic, big guys who can run and catch the ball.
"Adrien Robinson and Larry Donnell are a couple of young guys who have been on the squad for a couple of years, but have had some injury stuff going on with them. We expect them to be healthy and to be able to pick up the slack here."
The Giants are replacing Brandon Myers, who started 14 games last season but never formed strong chemistry with Eli Manning. Jermichael Finley and Dustin Keller are two veteran options on the open market, but both come with significant health questions. Reese hinted at the possibility of bringing in another player this summer.
"We're always looking for a few upgrades as we go through the offseason and into the season at every position at every position," Reese said. "But we expect (Robinson and Donnell) to come on, and they can be dynamic if we can get them going."
The Giants have excelled at finding short-term solutions at tight end throughout Manning's career. Martellus Bennett, Kevin Boss and Jake Ballard are all examples of players who have produced when given the opportunity. Next man up.
In the latest episode of the "Around The League Podcast," the heroes discuss the winners and losers of minicamp season.
