Tommy DeVito’s next chapter will include one of the Giants’ top playmakers.
The Giants activated tight end Darren Waller from injured reserve on Saturday, a move that was expected ahead of the team’s clash against the Saints on Sunday at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans.
He’ll play on a reduced snap count, though it will be a welcome addition to the Giants’ passing game now led by DeVito.
Waller has not played since a Week 8 overtime loss to the Jets due to a strained hamstring.
He was optimistic this week about his chances to return for Sunday’s game.
“Definitely what I want to do, and what I’ve been used to doing is like 70-80 snaps a game,” Waller told reporters Wednesday. “So, coming out the first week, probably not that but as far as a number that’s solid that can contribute in whatever ways he needs me to contribute but also be fresh, assuming that’s realistic but yeah, I plan on contributing given the opportunity.”
Despite missing the last five games, his 36 receptions and 384 yards are both second most on the team.
The Giants are riding a three-game winning streak behind DeVito and have rekindled faint playoff hopes, sitting one game out of the last postseason spot.
Four teams are between the Giants and the Packers for the final spot, though one of them is Sunday’s opponent, the Saints.
Sunday will be Waller’s first time playing with DeVito in the regular season.
“I think he’s doing a great job,” Waller said. “I think he’s – it starts with a calm demeanor and just confidence in yourself and that exudes out and guys in the huddle are going to feed off of that. They’re following your lead. He’s very conscious of that and plays free, man. Like he said, this is football.
“I’ve been doing this my whole life and he’s got an opportunity to slow things down a little bit and you keep doing that as long as you can get reps and once the game slows down in here [your head], it’s easier to just let your body take over.”
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