Should the New York Giants inquire about TE David Njoku?

David Njoku, New York Giants
USA Today

The New York Giants are entering the 2020 season with Evan Engram, Kaden Smith, and Levine Toilolo as their primary tight ends. History has taught us that Engram struggles to remain healthy, and Smith is a mere youngster in his development. Toilolo is an experienced player with Super Bowl credentials, but he is more of a blocking tight end rather than a pass-catching one.

The question is, can the Giants rely on Engram and Smith to hold down the fort in the passing game?

Looking at Engram stats, he has seen a degradation in numbers and productivity over the past three years. The former Ole Miss tight end had career lows in yards and touchdowns last season, compiling 467 yards and three scores, tying his 2018 total. He also took a step back in his catch percentage, finishing his season with a 64.7% success rate.

While the Giants did pick up Engram’s fifth-year option on his rookie deal, they could still inquire about David Njoku, tight end for the Cleveland Browns. The former Miami product has struggled to develop in Cleveland, having a career season two years ago in 2018, posting 639 yards and four touchdowns. The difference between Njoku and Engram is his blocking abilities. He is far better in the run game with a bit more size to his frame.

If I were the Giants, I wouldn’t consider the current brown as a viable option moving forward. With Engram and Smith already on the roster, the Giants have more than enough talent to work with. In the middle of a rebuild, acquiring a position player that hasn’t lived up to his potential would be malpractice.

Of course, with a few weeks before training camp, it is fair to analyze the potential of a trade, but Big Blue simply can’t afford to give away draft capital for underwhelming tight ends.

In addition, allowing a player like Njoku to steal starting reps away from Engram and Smith would hurt their development and progression. The Giants need to keep it simple and utilize the talent they already have on the roster.