Giants 90-Man Roster: WR Darius Powe Fighting For Spot

The New York Giants kept wide receiver Darius Powe around on the practice squad last season hoping he would develop into a useful player for them. This season we might find out if that gambit pays off.

Let’s take a closer look at Powe as we continue our player-by-player profiles of the Giants’ 90-man roster.

2016 Season In Review

Powe impressed the Giants enough during spring practices and training camp that they signed him to the practice squad despite the fact that he did not catch a pass in any of the four preseason games. Perhaps more impressively, with players coming and going from the practice squad every week, Powe remained there all season.

2017 Season Outlook

We have been over this situation a number of times. Powe will compete with Roger Lewis Jr., Tavarres King, Travis Rudolph and perhaps Kevin Norwood for a a roster spot. Lewis’s status after his OVI arrest could impact the competition. Powe, a 6-foot-3, 220-pound receiver, will have to show that he can contribute in kickoff and punt coverage.

Here’s a comment about Powe from offensive coordinator Mike Sullivan during spring practices in 2016:

"From a physical standpoint he's what you're looking for. You see him make plays. Now it's all about how quickly he can take the volume from the meetings to the practice field. He'll be thrown the kitchen sink. Can he process and play fast? He's able to separate. He makes contested catches. He has a big catch radius."

Here is part of a scouting report from veteran scout Dave-Te’ Thomas:

"Powe has a solidly built frame with room to carry at least another fifteen pounds of bulk with no loss in quickness."

"... has ideal size for today's NFL receiver with long limbs for his position, showing marked improvement in his route running skills last season. ... has the athletic skills to develop, but will need patient coaching to teach him the intricacies of the game."

"He takes well to hard coaching and shows a tireless work ethic in practices. He has really taken well to the coaches' program and while he still has a long way to go technique wise, he will not hesitate to ask questions or stay after practices to work on his route running."