Giants place rookie tight end on physically unable to perform list

East Rutherford , NJ — May 10, 2024 -- Fourth round draft pick Theo Johnson as the New York Giants hold their Rookie Camp and introduce their new draft picks.
Credit: Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com / USA TODAY NETWORK

As the New York Giants prepare for rookie training camp, they have faced an unfortunate setback, having to place fourth-round tight end Theo Johnson on the physically unable-to-perform list. Johnson, who emerged from a strong season at Penn State, notched 341 yards and seven touchdowns last year from 34 targets, boasting a 75.6% reception rate.

Giants Will Move Forward Without Johnson

With the recent retirement of Darren Waller, the Giants’ reliance on Johnson and third-year tight end Daniel Bellinger to spearhead the tight-end duties has intensified. While Waller’s departure subtracts a significant receiving threat, the Giants anticipate that rookie Malik Nabers will successfully mitigate this loss.

East Rutherford, NJ -- June 11, 2024 -- Tight end, Theo Johnson at the NY Giants Mandatory Minicamp at their practice facility in East Rutherford, NJ.
Credit: Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com / USA TODAY NETWORK

Johnson’s Promising NFL Combine Performance

At the NFL Combine, Johnson stood out, securing the 2nd place in athleticism score among his peers and the 4th overall among tight ends. His impressive combine performance, highlighted by a 4.57-second 40-yard dash at 6’6″ and 249 pounds, caught the attention of many scouts. Despite initially being projected as a third-round pick, Johnson’s considerable size and potential as a dynamic receiving tight end have made him a notable player to watch.

Development and Recovery

Although Johnson is still honing his run blocking skills, he has ample time to refine these abilities. The Giants are hopeful that he will recover swiftly from his current injury and rejoin the team in time for the summer off-season program, ready to contribute to their offensive strategy.

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