There is a newfound sense of optimism surrounding the New York Giants going into the 2018 NFL season. Tight end Evan Engram is among those who are adamant about a bounce-back year in New York.
The reason being is the team's decision to stick with quarterback Eli Manning under center. According to Zach Braziller of the New York Post, Engram feels Manning is poised for a big year:
“Those guys, they’re hit and miss. They’re just low-balling him,” Engram said. “I know for a fact he’s not paying attention to any of that. I’m not either. Eli looked really good all offseason. I went to Duke [for the annual Manning minicamp in April], he was slinging it around all camp. He was making a lot of throws that he’s been making for years.
“We got some new additions on the [offensive] line. We’re going to give him some more time back there. Y’all [will] see. Eli is still Eli. It’s going to be a big year for us and a big year for him.”
It is encouraging to see such optimism from one of the team's younger players. More importantly, there is good reason for him to feel that way.
The Giants managed to wipe the slate clean with the addition of a new coaching staff. Their first order of business was giving Manning a huge vote of confidence by passing a number of potential franchise quarterbacks in the 2018 NFL Draft. Instead, they managed to add yet another bonafide weapon to their offense by taking running back Saquon Barkley with the second overall pick.
A comeback from Manning could mean big numbers for Engram as well. He established himself as the veteran's go-to guy following the injuries to New York's entire receiving corps. Engram finished the 2017 campaign with 74 catches for 722 yards and six touchdowns as a rookie. It is safe to assume he will be looking to build on his stellar rookie year come this season.
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