The New York Giants wide receiver unit has been underwhelming during the 2022 season, but one option has emerged as a positive influence and contributor over the past few weeks.
Former sixth-round pick by the Buffalo Bills in 2020, Isaiah Hodgins, has set the stage for a promising career after being plucked off Buffalo’s practice squad earlier this season. Hodgins made one impactful appearance against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 5 with the Bills, hauling in four receptions for 41 yards and a 66.7% catch rate.
However, with injuries plaguing the Giants’ wide receiver corps, notably Wan’Dale Robinson and Sterling Shepard sustaining season-ending injuries, Hodgins has quickly carved out a significant role for himself. He’s played in the team’s last five games, hauling in nine receptions over his last two contests.
So far, he’s accumulated 183 receiving yards with Big Blue, including two touchdowns in consecutive games, showcasing his red-zone capabilities.
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The New York Giants are starting to rely on Isaiah Hodgins far more:
At 24 years old, the 6’4″, 210-pound receiver not only has quality size, but reliable hands that quarterback Daniel Jones can depend on. In fact, Hodgins found himself wide-open downfield several times against the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 14, but poor offensive line play completely dismantled the Giants’ offensive success or lack thereof.
Hodgins hasn’t only carved out a suitable role this year but is making a strong argument to be a part of the offense in 2023 and beyond. Considering Hodgins is earning $705K this year with a $392K cap hit, he’s an extremely cheap option to retain moving forward.
The Giants don’t stumble upon quality receiving threats at a cheap price point very often, so they need to retain as many as they can get. Collin Johnson also showed promise before a season-ending injury over the summer disrupted his development, but Hodgins seems to be a promising pass catcher with plenty of untapped potential.