Giants TE Theo Johnson sets lofty expectations for 2025 season ahead of Week 1 battle vs. Washington Commanders

For the New York Giants to surprise teams this season, certain young players must take significant jumps.

One of those players has to be second-year tight end Theo Johnson, who has the athletic tools to be one of the more productive tight ends in the league. Johnson shared why he believes he's ready to take that leap when speaking with the media on Wednesday.

"I think I'm in a great position right now to really take off this year. You know, I feel like I've put a lot of trust in the coordinators and Russ. So I feel like I'm in a good position to play my game this week."

Can Giants TE Theo Johnson be a key offensive piece?

Johnson entered the NFL as a high-ceiling prospect with the explosiveness to be a consistent threat to opposing defenses. During the 2024 NFL Draft cycle, he excelled at the Senior Bowl and dominated at the NFL Combine with a 4.57 40-yard dash and 39.5-inch vertical. Many hoped he could be a steal in the fourth round for the Giants.

However, his rookie season was uninspiring, finishing with only 331 yards, one touchdown, and 43 receptions. His best game came against the Washington Commanders on November 3rd when he totaled three receptions for 51 yards and a touchdown.

Now entering year two, Johnson has a much steadier quarterback situation. Fans are highly optimistic that the uncertainty under center will help Johnson reach his potential. And he's acknowledged that catching passes from Russell Wilson could be huge for his development.

"I know Russ [Wilson] really likes his tight ends. He likes his big, big targets. Me and him have worked a lot together, and trying to get on the same page on a lot of things. So I think the opportunity’s there and the targets and receptions will be there."

Throughout Wilson's career, tight ends and big-bodied receivers have been a go-to target for him. Just last year with the Pittsburgh Steelers, the team's leader in touchdown receptions was tight end Pat Freiermuth with seven.

Establishing chemistry early with Wilson would be huge for this Giants offense in 2025. Opposing teams will be heavily focused on slowing down wide receiver Malik Nabers on the outside. With the emergence of Tyrone Tracy at the end of last season, they'll likely aim to halt the run game as well.

If Johnson has a strong first game against the Commanders, it could be a catalyst for him and the entire offense to have a sneaky good year.