The New York Giants gathered away from the practice field to celebrate the franchise’s history and connect with the community, but for third-year tight end Theo Johnson, the event represented something much bigger than a night out.
As Organized Team Activities wrapped up and players prepared for the final stretch before training camp, Johnson described an organization that is growing closer both on and off the field—a bond he believes could pay dividends once the season begins.
“I think anytime we can get together outside the building, it’s really good for chemistry for the team,” Johnson said. “The turnout we’ve had today is just really special. I’ve felt it a lot in the room and in the building with how close we’ve been as a team, but seeing this outside the building when no one really has to be here, it says a lot about what we’re building on our team.”
Those comments may have been the biggest takeaway from the evening.
NFL teams often talk about culture, accountability and chemistry, but Johnson believes those qualities are becoming reality in New York. Voluntary events are exactly that—voluntary. Seeing players choose to spend time together away from football speaks volumes about the relationships being built throughout the locker room.
For Johnson, entering his third NFL season also means embracing a leadership role.
While still one of the younger players on the roster, the former Penn State standout understands he has become someone teammates can rely on, especially within a tight end room that has seen some changes.
“Since I came in here, I’ve felt like my role is important on this team, not just in the tight end room, but on the offense as a whole,” Johnson explained. “I think I’ve done a really good job of trying to bring guys together, acclimating the new guys to how the Giants are, while also getting to learn them and get to know them.”
Johnson specifically pointed to helping younger players adjust to life in the NFL, including rookie Thomas Fidone II, while continuing to build a room that features players with different strengths.
“We have a really, really good room, and I’m really excited to see. We have very different players, but we complement each other very well, and I think it’s going to be really special.”
That type of leadership doesn’t always show up on a stat sheet, but it’s exactly what coaches hope develops as young players gain experience.
Johnson has also developed an appreciation for making an impact away from football.
As his NFL career has progressed, giving back to the community has become increasingly important. He has already begun organizing football camps in his hometown, recognizing the platform professional athletes have to influence young people.
“We’re just so blessed and fortunate to have the jobs we have, to live the lives we have, and giving back is really important.”
That perspective mirrors what the Giants organization has long emphasized—connecting with the community while understanding the responsibility that comes with wearing the Giants uniform.
Perhaps the most revealing moment came when Johnson was asked whether this year’s team feels different than the previous two seasons.
His response was immediate.
“100%. Yeah, 100%. It’s totally different.”
Johnson credited the new mindset that has developed throughout the building.
“We’re bringing our hard hats to work every day, and we’re putting good work in. We’re learning the way; the messages from the coaches, I think, have been really good. So it’s definitely been different, for sure.”
Those comments reinforce what many players have hinted at throughout the offseason. There appears to be a renewed sense of accountability, purpose and togetherness inside the Giants’ locker room.
Whether that translates into wins won’t be known until the regular season kicks off. Chemistry alone doesn’t guarantee success in the NFL.
However, championship teams often point to trust and camaraderie as foundations that are built long before Week 1.
For Theo Johnson, those foundations are already being laid.
The Giants still have plenty to prove when training camp opens, but if Johnson’s words are any indication, the culture inside the organization is heading in a direction players are embracing. As the third-year tight end prepares for what could be a breakout season, he’s seeing more than just improved practices or new schemes.
He’s seeing a football team becoming a family.
And for a franchise looking to turn the page, that may be one of the most encouraging developments of the entire offseason.
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