PORT JEFF, NY- Greetings and salutations. Coming off Short Matt’s Earth-shattering predictions yesterday, let’s talk esome preseason NFL action!
THE GIANTS opened the preseason with a 13-10 loss to the Vikings, but the final score is hardly the biggest takeaway from the first game of the John Harbaugh era. Instead, there were several encouraging signs, particularly from some of the younger players who could play major roles this season.
One of the biggest positives was rookie wide receiver Malachi Fields. The third-round pick looked comfortable in his first NFL action, catching three passes for 34 yards and a touchdown. His 15-yard touchdown catch with Jaxson Dartwas especially encouraging, as Fields showed off the size, catch radius and physicality that made him such an intriguing prospect coming out of Notre Dame.
Fields has a legitimate opportunity to emerge as the Giants’ No. 2 wide receiver behind Malik Nabers. Darnell Mooney brings experience, but Fields offers a different element with his size and ability to win contested catches and in the red zone. Obviously, one preseason game does not guarantee anything, but Fields looked like a player who can earn significant snaps and potentially become an important part of this offense.
The other major takeaway is that keeping Dart healthy has to be one of the Giants’ biggest priorities. Dart showed flashes of why the organization is excited about him, including the touchdown throw to Fields, but he also took a hard hit that sent him to the blue medical tent before returning to the game.
Dart’s toughness and playmaking ability are strengths, but the Giants cannot afford to have their young quarterback constantly absorbing unnecessary hits. The offensive line and surrounding offense need to do everything possible to keep him clean.
