Here are five things you need to know about the Giants' new tight end Rhett Ellison:
- A hybrid fullback and tight end, Ellison was a valuable part of the Vikings' running game as a blocker. Originally a fourth-round pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, Ellison played five seasons in Minnesota, appearing in 73 games with 41 starts. He also appeared in one postseason game his rookie year.
- Ellison helped pave the way for Adrian Peterson, who led the league in rushing in 2012 and 2015. Peterson was named the 2012 NFL MVP Adrian Peterson after rushing for 2,097 yards, the second-most in NFL history.
- In addition to being a core special teamer, Ellison proved to be a reliable receiver with 51 receptions for 515 yards and three touchdowns in his career. He also notched his first rushing touchdown last season in Week 9 against Detroit.
- Ellison played college football at USC, where he started 31 career games. He was a versatile performer who saw time at tight end and fullback while excelling on special teams. He served as a team captain during his senior year and picked up first-team All-Pac 12 honors as a special teamer.
- His father, Riki, was a three-time Super Bowl champ and 10-year veteran linebacker with the 49ers (1983-89) and Raiders (1990-92). Riki was the first New Zealander to play in the NFL, and Rhett lived in New Zealand from age 4-7. Rhett's uncle, Dave Maley, played in the NHL.
Photos of TE Rhett Ellison's career with the Vikings
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