Two weeks ago, the New York Giants elevated undrafted free agent rookie Austin Mack to the active roster, but he did not dress for the contest. The Giants were preparing him for potential reps, even on special teams, but he was inactive and did not reach the field.
However, his time has finally come, as the Giants waived third-year receiver, Damion Ratley, on Tuesday afternoon.
The Giants have waived WR Damian Ratley and added Austin Mack off the practice squad!
I like this move, at 0-5, giving your young guns a shot to prove their worth.
Per @Dan_Salomone
— Alex Wilson (@AlexWilsonESM) October 13, 2020
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At 6-foot-2 and 200 pounds, Ratley is a former Texas A&M receiver, formally drafted in the sixth round by the Cleveland Browns.
This year with the Giants, he played in all five games, averaging a 48.8 grade, per PFF. While he was decent as a run blocker on the outside, a costly penalty against the Dallas Cowboys forced the Giants’ hand.
What would’ve been a fantastic touchdown catch to Darius Slayton was called back on a pick (OPI) by Ratley. Following the game, Slayton stated that the play’s design did not indicate he was trying to pick the cornerback, but when in Dallas, things usually don’t go your way.
Mack, who will be active against the Washington Football Team next Sunday, will have his first opportunity in the NFL.
Last year with Ohio State, Mack hauled in 27 receptions for 361 yards and three touchdowns. Overall, he is a solid prospect with average traits across-the-board. He is deceivingly physical and is smooth coming out of his break, and the Giants feel as though he is deserving of a chance at this point in the season. At 0-5, the Giants should be giving their younger players opportunities to shine, as this is truly a rebuilding year.