4 sneaky threats the Panthers must contain at the Giants in Week 7
By Dean Jones
Kyle Rudolph – TE
Considering how many players are missing for the New York Giants on offense and the fact Evan Engram might not suit up, this could be Kyle Rudolph’s chance to stamp his authority within the organization following his move in free agency.
Even if Engram does take the field, he might not be at 100 percent.
The veteran tight end thought he was vastly underused during his final year with the Minnesota Vikings. But with only eight receptions from 14 targets this season, things don’t seem to be getting much better in a different environment.
However, the Carolina Panthers should not ignore Rudolph’s potential threat. He is a proven danger in the red zone and is also a very solid edge blocker, which the Giants might need with stud tackle Andrew Thomas unable to participate.
Rudolph might be in the twilight of his career, but the Notre Dame product can still provide Daniel Jones with a solid pass-catching presence across the middle in crucial situations. Even though his ability to get open quickly is slowly waning.
Carolina should have enough in the way of options to cope with Rudolph’s physical presence in the passing game. It’s chipping the likes of Brain Burns and Haason Reddick that potentially poses the most complications.