The New York Giants are entering the 2020 season with an unpredictable wide receiver corps. Currently, the unit consists of Sterling Shepard, Golden Tate, Darius Slayton, Corey Coleman, and a bevy of undrafted free agents.
Predicting what the production will look like from this group is difficult since Shepard is one concussion away from potentially ending his career, Tate will be 32 years old, and Slayton is coming off his rookie campaign.
However, Slayton had a fantastic first season in the NFL, posting 740 yards and eight touchdowns in 14 games. He played in just 66% of offensive snaps, and expecting an increase in 2020 is predictable. If he can build off his first year numbers, Slayton can quickly become the Giants’ top wideout.
While at Auburn, Darius was known for his straightaway speed and ability to blaze by opposing cornerbacks. Having one move simply doesn’t work in the NFL, though, and he started his rookie minicamp, dropping everything in sight. He quickly left those issues behind, shaking off the jitters and adapting to a more physical style of play. He added several routes to his repertoire, including slants, out, and post routes, which saw smoother transitions into his break.
The Giants retained Tyke Tolbert, their wide receiver coach, who helped Slayton develop last season. This was a fantastic decision considering the excellent work he constructed with the former Auburn standout.
Good luck stopping Darius Slayton this season ? @Young_Slay2
(via IG/routeking_1) pic.twitter.com/vD7Kgvcg0G
— Giants Videos (@SNYGiants) June 25, 2020
On Thursday, he posted a video on Instagram running an out-route with an inside step. He looks good in his transition into his break, stopping on a dime and accelerating quickly toward the boundary. The speed and change of direction really stand out here.
Improving his fundamentals will be a priority for the young pass-catcher moving forward, but he has all the potential in the world to develop into the Giants’ number one wide receiver.