The New York Giants have a new running back in town this year, but unlike previous years when each season brought the question of who the top dog would be at the position, we already know who the established starter is. Saquon Barkley is running the show for the Giants at the running back spot, but the Giants have recently signed some help for him by bringing in Dion Lewis on a one year deal.
Lewis, who may be most known for his run with the Patriots, backed up Derrick Henry with the Titans last season and will move into a similar role behind Barkley barring more injury trouble for the existing Giants starter. He rushed for 209 yards last year, but it was a drop from his first year with the Titans where he rushed for 517 yards and his last season in New England where he had six touchdowns.
It remains to be seen if the Giants will get more value out of Lewis than the Titans managed, after the Patriots showed more of his potential. In a recent conference call, however, Lewis stated that his position behind Barkley doesn’t bother him.
“Obviously with a player like Saquon, you want him on the field as much as possible. He’s one of the better backs in this league and I understand that,” Lewis said.
In fact, Lewis went as far as to describe the situation with the Giants as the perfect opportunity, thanks to a number of factors including growing up a Giants fan.
“It was a perfect and a unique opportunity. There were a lot of factors. Joe Judge being there, me having a relationship with him with my three years in New England. Also I grew up a Giants fan so it was always a dream of mine to play for them so when I got the opportunity in these circumstances I couldn’t pass it up,” Lewis admitted.
“I’m looking forward to working with coach Joe Judge, playing for my hometown team and getting to work with Saquon as well,” he continued.
Wayne Gallman is still on the roster of the Giants which poses an interesting competition for the backup spot this season, one that may be impacted by the playcalling style of the new coaching staff – which has yet to be revealed, thanks to Joe Judge’s status as a first time coach who has never coordinated an offense before. No matter what style the team runs, though, running back is one of the few positions where the Giants can fortunately say that they’re set for the season.