Malachi Fields is making a case for a bigger role in the Giants’ receiver rotation after a strong training camp that has shown more than just the deep-ball threat that made him stand out early.
The 6-foot-4 rookie has flashed with a few 40-yard catches and has expanded beyond go-ball routes, a notable development for a third-round pick who entered camp with plenty to prove. He also turned heads in spring practice with a standout introductory reception when he caught a dig route over the middle of the field.
Fields is showing more than one way to help
That versatility matters for a Giants offense that last season tied for No. 11 in 20-yard receptions and tied for No. 5 in 40-yard receptions. New York already has Malik Nabers, but the rest of the receiver group has opened up. Wan’Dale Robinson left for the Titans in free agency, and Jalin Hyatt is on the wrong side of the roster bubble after three touchdown-less seasons.
Fields still has work to do. He had a few limited practices early in camp because of an undisclosed injury, but the overall early read has been positive. Jason Pinnock said Fields looked like he was “levitating,” called him “a freak athlete,” and pointed to his ball skills as the most obvious area that stands out.
Chad Hall has seen growth in a few key areas, saying the playbook comes easy to Fields and that the staff can spend more time on what happens after the snap. Hall also said Fields has gotten better from the snap to the release to the top of routes, while adding that the rookie is a big receiver who can bend well and needs to keep playing lower.
What comes next
Jameis Winston said Fields has a great rapport with Jaxson Dart and praised his curiosity about what it takes to be the best. Fields said he is also focused on the parts of receiver play that do not show up in highlight clips, including blocking and third-and-4 conversions, and noted that his shorter routes and possession catches are starting to get recognized more.
That kind of growth could help him move closer to a more meaningful role if it continues. For now, the next checkpoint comes Saturday, when Fields will make his NFL preseason debut against the Vikings.
