What Kind of Role Might Parris Campbell Have in Giants' Offense?

How much of an impact can Parris Campbell make in a new offense?

Author:
Andrew Parsaud
Publish date:
May 23, 2023 1:00 PM EDT

In this story:

Parris Campbell, Wide Receiver

Height: 6-foot-0 | Weight: 207 pounds
2022 stats: GP 17 / GS 16: 63 receptions, 623 yards, 3 touchdowns

Parris Campbell was regarded as one of the top receivers in the 2019 draft coming out of Ohio State. He was originally drafted by the Colts in the second round that year, hoping he could become a game-breaking type of player given his 4.31 speed.

However, such was not the case as Campbell’s career took a turn for the worse during his first three years in the league. From 2019 to 2021, injuries held Campbell to 34 receptions, 360 yards, and two touchdowns. Things changed in the 2022 season when he finally stayed fully healthy for an entire season and had the kind of year people thought him capable of having when he was drafted.

The Colts didn't push hard to re-sign Campbell, who landed on a one-year deal with the Giants. Campbell has primarily lined up in the slot over his career (633 snaps inside versus 298 outside), but the Giants' offensive staff no doubt has a plan regarding how they want to use the former Buckeye star.

The Giants have been adamant about adding speed to the offense, which was evident with Darren Waller's trade, drafting Jalin Hyatt, and signing Campbell. And while the receiver room is very crowded heading into training camp, if Campbell remains healthy, he should be among the last men standing when camp wraps up.

Best Case Scenario

The Giants' wide receiver room currently has 14 signed players listed, and it's probably not a stretch to say that Campbell is near the top of the list regarding anticipated playing time.

Availability is the best ability, and if Campbell can consistently stay on the field as he did in 2022, Brian Daboll and Mike Kafka will certainly employ him in various ways, particularly to stretch the field, which New York struggled to do last year.

Last season the Giants finished 31st in intended air yards (3,327). They attempted passing plays on 47.7 percent of their offensive plays. With only 16 successful deep passing plays of 25+ yards (dead last in the league), that comes to a three percent success rate-- hardly enough to move the needle.

Granted, part of the problem was the offensive line's inconsistency. Giants quarterbacks were sacked 49 times, tied for fifth in the league with the Titans, so that problem also had to be addressed.

That said, the interesting thing about Campbell is that he can be used out of the backfield, taking jet sweeps or being used as a decoy. Given his diverse skill set, the offensive staff can get creative with Campbell. Of course, his speed will be put to good use as well.

Worst Case Scenario

The worst thing that could happen in Campbell’s case is either suffering another injury and missing time or simply being beaten out by another receiver on the roster. While Campbell had a solid season last year and stayed fully healthy, his injury history from the first three years simply can’t be ignored.

The Giants are no stranger to injuries, especially at the receiver position. Campbell's missing time could open opportunities for other players on the roster.

What to Expect in 2023

Parris Campbell could become a very high-reward signing by the Giants if he can stay healthy. His speed will be on display, and he should become a reliable target for Daniel Jones. The Giant's offense has improved on paper, with Campbell being a part of it.

Campbell will probably see most of his time in the slot. He’s not the tallest receiver, but standing at 6 feet tall, he can provide at least a little more height than the majority on the roster.

With Campbell, Darren Waller, Jalin Hyatt, and Darius Slayton on the field simultaneously, it could prove dangerous for defenses that can’t match the speed of those four.