A Quiet Rise with Big Implications

The New York Giants’ hopes for a 2025 resurgence hinge on discovering overlooked talent. Enter Theo Johnson—a fourth-round 2024 draft pick from Penn State—whose quiet progression could transform the team’s offensive dynamics. While headlines focus on star quarterbacks and high-profile rookies, Johnson’s subtle development as a converted wide receiver-turned-tight end positions him as a critical piece of the Giants’ puzzle.

The Turning Point: Late-Season Surge

Johnson’s rookie campaign started slowly. Adjusting to the tight end role, he faced questions about his blocking skills and route precision. But midway through 2024, everything changed. Over his final five games before a foot injury cut his season short, his production doubled, showcasing:

• 4.61-second speed and agility after the catch
• A 78% catch rate on 21 targets
• Explosive plays like a 58-yard catch-and-run against the Eagles

Pro Football Focus analyst Thomas Valentine labeled him the NFL’s “most improved tight end prospect” for 2025, noting his ability to create mismatches against Linebackers.

Perfect Conditions for Stardom

Stabilized Quarterback Play

The Giants’ offseason moves—signing Russell Wilson and drafting Jaxson Dart—provide consistent passing options. Johnson’s intermediate routes and red-zone prowess will thrive in this environment.

Cleared Path to Playing Time

Darren Waller’s retirement and Daniel Bellinger’s injury struggles have opened a starting role. Johnson’s offseason film shows improved blocking and route-running, with no lingering effects from his injury.

Coaching Strategy Alignment

Head coach Brian Daboll plans to exploit Johnson’s Versatility by:

• Deploying him in motion packages
• Splitting him wide to use his receiver-like traits
• Targeting him in the red zone (3rd-most red-zone targets among Giants’ TEs in 2024)

2025 Projections

Early analyst models predict:

• Top-15 TE finish if he stays healthy
• 65-70 catches for 750+ yards
• Key contributor in 3rd-down situations

His 2024 chemistry with backup QBs (7.1 yards per target) suggests he can thrive in any system.

The Bigger Picture

Johnson’s journey embodies the Giants’ philosophy of nurturing under-the-radar talent. His 2025 success could:

• Free up star WR Malik Nabers from double-teams
• Create mismatches against NFC East safeties
• Provide a safety net if Wilson’s durability remains an issue

As training camps begin, Johnson’s No. 85 jersey will be one to watch. This could be the season he transitions from “project” to Pro Bowl contender—and the Giants from also-rans to playoff contenders.