New York Giants rookie receiver Darius Slayton once again proved he was a steal in last year’s draft during Big Blue’s first win in over two months. While Sunday was a little less productive than other weeks, his success was still present. After missing the first two games of the season due to injury, Slayton has looked even more promising as each week goes by. Through his first 12 career games, it looks as though the Giants might have their No. 1 receiver of the future.
Why Darius Slayton is the Giants No. 1 Receiver of the Future:
His consistency and impact this season
Every skill player on the Giants has missed at least two games this season. Some have been due to suspensions, while others have dealt with injuries. Since missing the first two games of this season though, Slayton has been healthy every single week. He’s the only playmaker on the team that has been active every week since week three. But not only has he been healthy, but he has been a strong weapon in the Giants offense.
He is the team’s leading receiver, posting 690 yards receiving on 44 receptions. His 8 receiving touchdowns are not only the most on the Giants, but they are among the most in all of the NFL. His skillset works perfectly for a Giants offense that has players that thrive off of quick passes: Golden Tate and Sterling Shepard. He also allows running back Saquon Barkley to find success, as he makes opposing team’s defenses respect the possibility of a deep pass.
His impressive numbers compared to other rookies
To be considered one of the best, you will be compared to others. Slayton matches up quite strongly with the other receivers of his draft class – many of which were taken on days one and two. His previously mentioned 8 receiving touchdowns are the most among all rookie receivers. He is in the top five among all rookies in receiving yards, receptions, and yards per reception (15.7).
His unique skillset
When a player starts to find success in the league, they gain comparisons to other players. Slayton recently has been compared to former Giants first-round pick, Hakeem Nicks. Nicks was a big body receiver with great hands, traits that Slayton has showcased this entire season. What makes him even more impressive though, is his speed and ability to get behind defenses and catch the deep ball.
Since day one, Slayton has shown that he has the potential to be the Giants No. 1 receiver of the future. And up to this point of his young career, it looks as though he could be one of the playmakers of the future for Big Blue.