The New York Giants announced that rookie tight end Jake Ballard has been promoted from their practice squad.

First-year safety D.J. Johnson has been waived.

Ballard (6-6, 256) is an undrafted free agent out of Ohio State who has been on the Giants' practice squad since the start of the season. More of a blocker, his promotion adds depth behind Kevin Boss, Travis Beckum, and Bear Pascoe, who has been playing more fullback while Madison Hedgecock is sidelined with a foot injury.

Johnson is a reserve safety who the Giants signed off the Denver Broncos' practice squad last November. Active for 7 games this season, Johnson (6-1, 191) has four tackles on special teams.