After a stellar rookie season many are wondering: is Darius Slayton ready to take the next step to greatness?
I certainly think so.
The Giants didn’t really know what they were getting in Slayton when they drafted him in the fifth round of the 2019 NFL Draft. You can blame that on Auburn’s lack of a passing game, but once Slayton made it to New York coaches liked what they saw.
After sitting out the first half of the season due to a hamstring injury, Slayton had a breakout game in week 10 against the Jets, catching 10 passes for 121 yards and two touchdowns. By the end of the season, he’d become QB Daniel Jones’ favorite target and led the Giants in receiving yards (740), yards per catch (15.4) and touchdowns (8).
Darius Slayton had 8 touchdown receptions in 2019 (first among rookies.) He averaged 28 yards per touchdown reception.
Here are all eight touchdown receptions by Darius Slayton for the #Giants: pic.twitter.com/O9v4D4NCMV
— David Solow (@GiantsAlliance) July 7, 2020
Does he have what it takes to be the Giants’ number 1 wide receiver?
MORE: What Auburn’s SEC only 2020 football schedule could look like
The Giants didn’t add to their wide receiver corps this offseason and, if Slayton can remain healthy, he’ll be the Giants best option at WR1.
Former NFL wide receiver Nate Burleson is here to let everyone know, Slayton is the real deal:
“He’s a beast, man,” Burleson said. “I wanna see him develop even more and see just how well they can use him. Can you move him around? Can you put him in motion? Can you run him around multiple routes? I know he can go over the top of guys. Now let’s test how good of a wide receiver he is. He’s one of my favorite young wideouts …
“He can be a top-flight receiver in this league.”
Big Blue Review’s Ed Valentine with the full analysis of Darius Slayton here.
Darius Slayton has the best opportunity to capitalize on his rookie success this season, all eyes are on him.