The reality of the New York Giants’ wide receiver corps is a bit problematic. They have one veteran pass-catcher they can cut after the 2020 campaign to save $6 million in cap space, one receiver who is a concussion away from potentially ending his career, and one young option that has plenty of potential.
Golden Tate, being the oldest of the group, had his lowest catch percentage since his rookie season in 2010 last year with the Giants. He recorded his lowest overall yards since 2011. However, it is fair to acknowledge that Tate missed the first four games of the season due to suspension.
Then there’s the Sterling Shepard issue, who suffered two concussions last year and felt symptoms months after the fact. One more brain injury for the 27-year-old could significantly impact the remainder of his NFL career. The only consistent option and threat the Giants have is Darius Slayton, who led the team in yards and touchdowns in his rookie season last year.
Adding a talented receiver to supplement the expected cutting up Tate next off-season would be advised whether it be through the draft or in free agency.
For the New York Giants target Keenan Allen in 2021?
Allen is an exciting receiver, who simply hasn’t been able to attain elite status in the NFL. At 28 years old and a three-time Pro Bowler, Allen averaged just above 100 receptions per year and nearly 1,300 yards, catching 60% of his targets over the past three seasons. He will have Tyrod Taylor or rookie Justin Herbert throwing him the football in 2020, and if the Chargers elect to let him walk next off-season in free agency, the Giants could pounce on the talented player.
In 2019, Allen posted 1199 yards, six touchdowns, over 104 receptions. He is an extremely dependable player who has remained healthy over the last three seasons, a great sample size that also included three Pro Bowl appearances. While his price tag might be lofty, he is elite in the intermediate passing game and would offer Daniel Jones a top receiver to work with. He is a bonafide number one wide-out, and sliding in Darius Slayton next to him would be a fantastic tandem worth considering. Again, his price tag might be elevated, but the talent and locker room quality he brings could make a significant difference for Big Blue.