Beginning To Find His Stride
Giants tight end Theo Johnson believes he’s beginning to find his stride as he enters his second NFL season. He first started feeling that shift late in his rookie year, until a foot injury cut his season short. “I felt it coming on the more comfortable I got,” Johnson said on the Giants Huddle podcast.
“Just feeling what it’s like to be in my groove, like now having an idea, like I’ve got this many games under my belt, this is what it’s gotta look like. Just as it was like, man I could really finish on a high note this year, the injury happened, which was super discouraging. But encouraging at the same time, because it was like, now I know I’m going to have a full offseason to kind of prepare and figure things out. I definitely felt like I was catching on at the right time. Unfortunately, the injury kind of put a hold on that.”
Johnson, a fourth-round pick in the 2024 draft, began his rookie campaign slowly. In his first four games, he managed only three catches for 37 yards. However, his production steadily improved after September. Aside from a quiet Week 7, Johnson consistently recorded at least 30 receiving yards and three receptions in each of the remaining games he played.
Before his Week 11 injury, he totaled 331 yards and one touchdown on 29 receptions. Though his rookie stats didn’t rival the standout seasons from players like Sam LaPorta or Brock Bowers, Johnson showed solid promise in a role that typically requires time to develop.
Focused On Growth And Health
Now looking ahead to 2025, Johnson feels like a different player, both physically and mentally. “Huge, huge difference,” he said when asked to describe himself heading into Year 2 compared to last season. “I know what it’s like to be a professional football player now. I was learning as I went week by week [as a rookie].”
The main priority for Johnson this year is staying on the field. “The big thing for me this year is I want to play 17 games,” Johnson said. “That’s the number one priority. I’ve been taking my recovery and my health, what I’m putting in my body and everything, more serious than I ever have. I think that’s the biggest goal for me is prioritizing my health and wellness and making sure that I’m available and consistent throughout 17 games.”
Eager To Expand His Role
Johnson sits at the top of the Giants’ tight end depth chart, joined by Greg Dulcich, Daniel Bellinger, Chris Manhertz, rookie Thomas Fidone II, and undrafted free agent Jermaine Terry.
While blocking remains essential in head coach Brian Daboll’s scheme, particularly for players like Manhertz, Johnson is primarily expected to contribute as a pass catcher. He’s eager to expand his role in the receiving game. “I think there’s a good opportunity for me to do a lot more in the option game this year,” Johnson said.
“Different things on third downs. All stuff as a tight end you get super excited about, the different concepts and things that really complement my skill set and play style. I think it’s gonna be a good mixture of running seams and stuff but working in more intermediate option-type routes, as well.”
Aiming For Consistency In 2025
With quarterback stability still uncertain, the Giants hope to get reliable play from Russell Wilson or one of the other signal-callers: Jameis Winston, Jaxson Dart, or Tommy DeVito.
Regardless of who is under center, Johnson is determined to be a steady presence this season. Armed with a year of experience, a clearer understanding of his role, and renewed focus on health, Johnson is set on making his second NFL season count.
