What can the NFL expect out of the New York Giants offense under new offensive coordinator Jason Garrett? Many expect to see a version of the Dallas Cowboys’ run-first attack with Saquon Barkley playing the Ezekiel Elliott role while Daniel Jones learns the ropes, developing in a similar manner to that of Dak Prescott.
But looking more closely at Garrett’s days as a play caller while he was the Cowboys’ OC with Tony Romo at quarterback, the tape shows a different side of Garrett, one that employs a pass-heavy attack.
“Looking at that 2009-12 sample of games, Garrett’s four offenses ranked in the top eight in passing yards and in the top 10 in completions and fantasy points per game,” writes ESPN’s Mike Clay. “Three of the four were below average in RB touches and fantasy points. All four ranked in the top 10 in WR touchdowns, OTD and end zone targets, with three of the four eighth or better in fantasy points per game. Granted, it was prime Jason Witten era, but all four tight end units finished top three in routes, targets, receptions, receiving yards and fantasy points, although only one was above 14th in touchdowns and end zone targets.”
That’s interesting to know, even if Giants head coach Joe Judge has already stated that his team plans on establishing the run, which the Giants are set up to do.
They can run the football. In 2019, they averaged 4.7 yards per attempt (6th highest in the NFL) and with a healthy Barkley in tow and a revamped offensive line, it only makes sense that Garrett will lean on the running game.
But the takeaway here is the role of the tight ends. Of course a lot of that hinges on the health of Evan Engram, who has not been able to consistently stay on the field. Kaden Smith, a second-year player who showed some prowess in the passing game last season, could benefit from Garrett’s play calling.
Passing the football more doesn’t eliminate Barkley from the offense. Quite the opposite. Barkley is perhaps the team’s top receiver as well. In his first two seasons Barkley has caught 143 passes for 1,159 yards and six touchdowns.
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