The feeling in the New York Giants wide receiver room is a somber one after camp stand-out Collin Johnson suffered a torn Achilles during practice on Wednesday.
Johnson was in line to not only make the team, but feature in a starting role with expectations that the Giants will move on from Darius Slayton and his $2.5 million salary hit in the coming weeks.
This past week against the Cincinnati Bengals, Johnson tallied three receptions for 41 yards, but he was far from the stand out among a bevy of receivers who got action in the passing game.
The New York Giants enjoyed an explosive outing from Alex Bachman:
In fact, the biggest standout performance was that of Alex Bachman, who earned 11 receptions on 14 targets for 122 yards and two scores. This was by far Bachman‘s most productive game as a professional, even though it was a preseason contest.
- Mel Kiper’s final 2024 NFL Draft board sees elite QB fall to Giants’ first-round slot
- Giants reportedly negotiating with Patriots for No. 3 pick in the draft
- Giants are ‘the team to watch’ regarding trade up to 3rd overall
Bachman has been quietly making an impression during camp before the breakout performance, reminiscent of Victor Cruz back in the day. However, Cruz went on to have a lucrative NFL career, winning a Super Bowl. Bachman is yet to make an NFL roster for an entire season, but this could be his year to shine, given his special team’s value.
Against the Bengals, Bachman collected six catches for first downs, forced two missed tackles, and registered four explosive plays at 15+ yards. He also earned a big tackle on special teams, expanding his value even more.
With Johnson going down and Slayton still very much on the roster bubble, Bachman is now on the fast track to land a roster spot. The 26-year-old receiver still has competition with David Sills and Richie James eyeing a spot on the 53, but it’s possible for all three to make the cut.
Projected WR unit:
-Kadarius Toney
-Kenny Golladay
-Sterling Shepard
-Wan’Dale Robinson
-Richie James
-David Sills
-Alex Bachman
Bachman has made four appearances for the Giants over the past two seasons, returning one punt for 16 yards last year. He also recorded four kick returns for 94 yards with a long of 27.
At the very least, Bachman could offer the Giants value as a kick returner, reserve receiver, and kick-off specialist on the defensive side.