The New York Giants wide receiver corps has been thin for the majority of the 2022 season, especially after season-ending injuries to Sterling Shepard and Wan’Dale Robinson.
However, they’ve gotten value from several practice squad-level receivers. One of those wideouts has been Isaiah Hodgins, who the Giants claimed off the Buffalo Bills practice squad several weeks ago. In fact, Hodgins played in two games for the Bills, hauling in four receptions for 41 yards this season before the Giants stole him away and immediately injected him into their offensive system.
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The New York Giants have been pleasantly surprised:
Over four games with the Giants, Hodgins has tallied 145 yards and one score, including an 86.7% catch rate. The former undrafted free agent out of Oregon State in 2021 has immediately made an impact for a Big Blue, particularly since they’ve been in search of a productive receiver with serviceable route-running capabilities. In fact, Hodgins put together a nasty pivot route against the Washington Commanders in Week 13, resulting in a touchdown.
Ultimately, Hodgins has a prime opportunity to prove his worth and justify a roster spot for 2023 and beyond. With Robinson, the Giants’ second-round pick this year, sustaining an ACL tear that ended his season prematurely, there are plenty of reps up for grabs, and Hodgins is making the most of his.
Of course, general manager Joe Schoen will continue looking for wide receiver support, notably Odell Beckham Jr., who is currently on tour to determine his future team.
With that being said, OBJ wouldn’t help the Giants down the stretch until a potential playoff appearance, which is optimistic, to begin with. Unfortunately, the free agency class in 2023 is extremely thin at receiver, so the Giants need to be giving reps to players who can contribute moving forward at a reasonable price point, given their salary situation.