The New York Giants added plenty of notable talent to their offense this offseason, grabbing headlines with the acquisitions of Darren Waller and Jalin Hyatt. But one player has flown under the radar after joining the team midway through the 2022 season. WR Isaiah Hodgins quietly established himself as a true playmaker and was recently named the Giants’ “best-kept secret” by Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine.
Isaiah Hodgins named Giants’ “best kept secret”
Though his talent may not be a secret to Giants fans, Hodgins is a player whose name has yet to make waves throughout the league. The former sixth-round pick struggled to make his way onto the field for the first three seasons of his career. But once he was released by the Buffalo Bills during the 2022 season, the Giants were quick to claim Hodgins off waivers and immediately inject him into the starting lineup.
Hodgins quickly established himself as one of Daniel Jones’ favorite receiving targets, totaling 33 receptions for 351 yards and four touchdowns in the Giants’ final eight regular season games.
Ballentine writes that “Hodgins has earned the right to be included in the game plan” following his breakout 2022 season.
In the Giants’ Wild Card victory over the Minnesota Vikings, Hodgins hauled in eight passes for 105 yards and one touchdown. He rose to the occasion at the most crucial time, helping New York earn their first playoff win in over a decade.
But as Ballentine points out, “There will be more competition for the 6’3″, 201-pound receiver [Hodgins] this fall.” New additions to the receiving corps such as Jalin Hyatt and Parris Campbell will fight for playing time from Hodgins.
However, Hodgins’ impact during the postseason and physical presence should earn him a starting spot on the outside. He has the height and strength to muscle off defenders combined with the high level of awareness necessary to find open space in the red zone and put points on the board. He may be a secret weapon for now, but a full season in the Giants’ offense could turn Hodgins into a household name in 2023.