When New York Giants‘ star running back Saquon Barkley went down with a torn ACL in Week 2, reserve back, Wayne Gallman was forced to take a larger role. This was after Devonta Freeman was signed off the street and picked up a few injuries that held him out for the remainder of the season.
For the most part, the Wayne Train took a few games to get going, but when he was on, he was on. Gallman had some help from Morris as well, but the former Clemson star was the lead back when Barkley and Freeman went down with injuries. They ripped off eight 100-yard performances over the next nine games. They even put together a four-game winning streak.
The Giants know now, Barkley is not immortal. They need to get more of a solid plan at the running back. Gallman, Morris, and Lewis are free agents come in March, and the Giants will be seeking some veteran running back help behind Barkley this offseason.
Here are four veterans the New York Giants should consider signing this offseason:
Mike Davis
With the Carolina Panthers’ star running back Christian McCaffrey dealing with injuries this past season, Mike Davis was the top back for Carolina this past season. The 27-year-old is a versatile back who can catch passes out of the backfield as well as running through the tackles. Davis ran for 642 yards and had 373 receiving yards on 59 catches. Davis could be a solid and cheap running back for Barkley next season.
Jamaal Williams
The Green Bay Packers running back Jamaal Williams is strictly a complimentary back to Aaron Jones, that is exactly what the Giants need for Barkley. Williams is a reliable runner, averaging 4.2 yards per carry on the ground. He could also be used in the passing game as well if needed. With Green Bay drafting A.J Dillon in the second-round this past draft, they will have to part ways with Williams this offseason.
James White
Logan Ryan did he say he would try to recruit players to New York — could James White be one of them? White has been a productive back, through the air or on the ground. White would be the perfect third-down back and compliment Barkley really well. White could help New York in the red zone for the fact he is an excellent receiver. He would be a fine addition for whatever team he chooses to play for next season.
Malcolm Brown
Malcolm Brown reminds me of Jamaal Williams, a complimentary back to Cam Akers. Brown is a very effective runner through the tackles. This past season, he became more effective through the air, which he has not been through the years. That will expand his value this offseason, with teams knowing he can be used in the passing game.