Chris Manhertz solidified his status as a key player for the New York Giants in the 2024 season, earning commendation as a top blocking tight end. Standing at 6-foot-6 and 235 pounds, his physical prowess greatly contributed to the Giants' running and passing game, especially during the latter part of the season. Manhertz recorded a career-best 69.3 overall grade from Pro Football Focus (PFF), showcasing his effectiveness in both run-blocking and pass protection.

Despite a slow start, Manhertz's performance improved significantly, which included only allowing three pressures throughout the season. His blocking was instrumental in supporting the offensive line, particularly for running back Tyrone Tracy Jr., who thrived behind Manhertz’s key blocks. The tight end's versatility also allowed him to contribute to the passing game, with three receptions for 30 yards and a touchdown, demonstrating his multifaceted role even beyond his primary blocking duties.

At 32 years of age, Manhertz's durability and sustained performance mark him as a valuable asset for the Giants. His ability to step up amid injuries and fill in gaps has proven essential. As the Giants look to the future, his experience and reliability will likely continue to be sought after as they work to enhance their offensive line and overall blocking schemes for the upcoming seasons.

The New York Giants' passing game dynamics shifted significantly with the emergence of wide receiver Malik Nabers as the primary target, alongside Wan'Dale Robinson. By 2023, tight ends were only targeted 21.9% of the time in passing plays, catching 53.9% of those passes and accounting for 25.1% of total yards. In contrast, receivers were targeted 56.9% of the time, showcasing a stark contrast in production with 23.5% of receptions and a dominating 61.2% of yards.

The 2024 season saw a further decline in tight end targets to 13.1%, while receivers garnered 71.3%. The tight ends managed to catch only 13.7% of their targets, amassing 14.5% of the yards. Red zone usage was particularly low for the tight ends, with only minimal targets translating into two catches and a touchdown across the entire season. Meanwhile, receivers exploited red zone opportunities more effectively, yielding a better touchdown rate.

Joe Schoen and Brian Daboll's decision to pass on first-round quarterbacks in the draft is now under scrutiny as Michael Penix Jr. prepares for his first NFL start with the Atlanta Falcons against the struggling New York Giants. The Giants, sitting at 2-12, face the possibility of a 10th consecutive loss, further complicating Schoen and Daboll's future.

Despite their choice of wide receiver Malik Nabers at No. 6 overall, the Giants' offense has struggled, averaging just 14.9 points per game. Meanwhile, the Falcons, despite their own issues, have opened as favorites for the matchup.

The New York Giants face a significant challenge as they adjust to the loss of Pro Bowl tackle Dexter Lawrence, who dislocated his left elbow during the Thanksgiving game against the Dallas Cowboys and has been placed on injured reserve.

Lawrence, a key player with nine sacks this season, will be missed both on and off the field, as he serves as a captain and leader for the team. The Giants, currently struggling with a 2-10 record, will need to step up their game against the New Orleans Saints without him.

The 2024 season has reached a critical juncture for the New York Giants and Carolina Panthers, both struggling at 2-7. As they face off in Week 10, the focus has shifted from playoff aspirations to securing a better draft position.

The Giants are favored to win for the first time this season, hoping to end a four-game losing streak. Their running game, led by Tyrone Tracy, Jr., faces a Panthers defense ranked last in run defense. However, both teams have significant challenges, particularly in the red zone, where the Giants have struggled.