The New York Giants, despite making their first playoff appearance since 2016 last season, needed more firepower on offense. 

Before they added wide receiver Jalin Hyatt and running back Eric Gray in April's NFL Draft, the Giants traded for former Pro Bowl tight end Darren Waller.

New York was taking a risk with Waller's availability not being the best over the previous two seasons, but he quickly turned heads once he arrived and it hasn't slowed down.

It took all of one play to see the difference Waller can make for this offense. On the first play of OTAs with the media in attendance, Waller blew by the nickel cornerback and caught a deep ball down the right sideline. It was the first of many plays in which Waller stood out because of his size and explosiveness. Most importantly, he looked healthy after two injury-plagued seasons. That's the key. The Giants acquired Waller for a third-round pick in March. — Jordan Raanan, ESPN

Before Waller battled knee and hamstring injuries with the Las Vegas Raiders, he tallied 197 receptions for 2,341 yards and 12 touchdowns over a two-year span which included a Pro Bowl nod in 2020.

Waller is an extremely versatile weapon. In addition to his 847 snaps at tight end over the last four seasons, he's registered 586 in the slot and 434 as an outside receiver. So with his 6'6" frame, he can cause a ton of matchup problems in several areas.

Of course, being with a new team in a new city is a challenge, but Waller's adjustment period is going smoothly.

“It’s been great,” said Waller, via NFL.com. “It’s been a great challenge. I love a good challenge and just forming a new relationship with my teammates. They’re really excited about winning. They’re really solid about doing things the right way and continuing to build a foundation on what they started last year. I’m just excited to be a part of it.”

The Giants have been greatly pleased with what they've seen from Waller, and they certainly hope the injury woes have become a thing of the past. If that's the case, and guys like wide receivers Sterling Shepard and Wan'Dale Robinson can produce along with stud running back Saquon Barkley, the Giants' offense will be very formidable in 2023.

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Feature image via Danielle Parhizkaran/NorthJersey.com / USA TODAY NETWORK