For the first time since 2017, the Giants’ backfield will not include Saquon Barkley. A veteran lead back (Devin Singletary) has been added to replace him, but further moves at the position could be coming. 
New York has 2023 fifth-rounder Eric Gray in place as a returnee. He saw a minor role on both offense and special teams as a rookie, and Singletary’s presence makes it unlikely he will see a notable uptick in carries or receptions in 2024. The Giants again took the draft route to add depth this year, selecting Tyrone Tracy Jr. in the fifth round.
Given the lack of experience at the position amongst those and other options, Dan Duggan of The Athletic writes a veteran backfield signing is “likely” between now and the opening of training camp (subscription required). Several options fit the bill in that respect, and Matt Breida is among them. Duggan notes a reunion with the 29-year-old could meet the need for depth in the summer.
Breida has played each of the past two seasons with the Giants. He averaged just 3.2 carries per game during that span while serving as Barkley’s backup, and the Singletary-Gray-Tracey trio could limit his offensive role if he were to come back. If that does not come to fruition, the likes of Dalvin Cook, Kareem Hunt, Cam Akers and Brandon Bolden could be on New York’s radar as unsigned backs who will likely be affordable.
The Giants added Dante Miller in April as an interesting flier in the backfield. It remains to be seen if he will be able to earn a roster spot, though, and the same is true of former UDFA Jashaun Corbin, who is once again set to compete for a role during training camp. Veterans still on the market would represent far more experienced options to complement Singletary, although special teams contributions will of course be highly valuable as well.
New York – a team which is set to host Jacob Saylors, the UFL’s top rusher amongst running backs – currently have $11.7MM in cap space. That should leave room for a modest addition in the backfield, and the Giants will certainly have a number of options to consider if one is pursued.
Once camp starts I’d like to see how Singletary looks as well as the rookie RB’s. If they aren’t performing or look promising, I would look at bringing in Cook or Hunt as a nice veteran prince.
I think Singletary was a nice addition. Did a really good job for Texans. He’s no Barkley but a powerful short yardage third down back would help.
*back would help in addition to Singletary.
Adrian Peterson and David Wilson are also ready to attempt comebacks…lol.
I know that it probably won’t happen, but I am VERY curious to see Dante Miller in action. He doesn’t have much in game experience from his college days, though, so it’s all athletic upside. That rarely translates to success on its own, but it’s often intriguing.
If they’re going to bring in a vet like Cook or Hunt, they better do it quickly. Cook in particular looked like he needed to get in shape. Should get them in now so they can get in some training camp.