When you think of New York Giants tight end Rhett Ellison, you mostly think of a backup tight end who is an excellent blocker. Nothing more, nothing less.
But you might be surprised to find out that Ellison actually has a great set of hands and can reel in passes with the best of them.
So, what’s his secret? Ellison compared himself to a “dog in the park” when he gets a pass thrown his way. Here’s Ellison’s take on his pass-catching skills, per Ryan Dunleavy of NJ Advance Media.
“Catching the ball, I think some guys put a little too much emphasis on it,” Ellison said. “I put more of the focus on the blocking so the catch is more of a reward. Like, ‘Oh, I get a ball coming my way? This is great.’ React like a dog in the park.”
After not getting much play as a receiver during his five seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, Ellison has been much more involved in the passing game with the Giants.
Ellison’s career-high in receptions while with the Vikings was 19 back in 2014. In his two years with the Giants, Ellison is averaging nearly 25 catches per season (49 total) and has turned them into 507 yards and three touchdowns in all. He had three total touchdowns during his tenure in Minnesota.
Some of that has to do with fellow tight end Evan Engram dealing with injury, but Ellison certainly has the respect of his coaches to get chances in the passing game.
Head coach Pat Shurmur even compared him to Giants great Mark Bavarro for his dual-threat ability as a blocker and pass-catcher.
Ellison may not be the flashiest guy in the room; however, the 30-year-old could see an increased role once again in 2019 should the Giants employ Engram off the line of scrimmage more.
One thing’s for sure: Ellison will be willing and able to catch anything thrown his way.
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