The New York Giants offense is going to look vastly different in 2024 than it has in years past. Gone is the hub of their offensive attack, running back Saquon Barkley. Barkley, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft and the team’s best player the last few seasons, signed with the rival Philadelphia Eagles in free agency.
Without Barkley in the mix, the team’s entire game plan on offense needs to change. He was the most explosive player and only true playmaker the team possessed, but they are hoping that changes in 2024 and beyond.
With their first-round pick, the New York Giants selected LSU star wide receiver Malik Nabers. He should lead a much-improved wide receiver group that also includes 2023 third-round pick Jalin Hyatt and 2022 second-rounder Wan’Dale Robinson. Veteran Darius Slayton could also remain in the mix.
Alas, there are questions about who will replace Barkley in the team’s backfield. They signed veteran Devin Singletary in free agency, as he is familiar with head coach Brain Daboll from their time with the Buffalo Bills.
Other holdovers include Eric Gray and Gary Brightwell could be in the mix for work. However, one NFL analyst would like to see the New York Giants turn their backfield over to rookie running back Tyrone Tracy Jr.
Tracy, a fifth-round pick out of Purdue in the 2024 NFL Draft, is a wide receiver turned running back who possesses explosive athleticism. Alex Kay of Bleacher Report has urged Big Blue to get him involved early and often to replace Barkley.
“Tracy finished his tenure with the Boilermakers having racked up a respectable 854 yards and eight touchdowns on a mere 130 carries. Although it was no longer his primary job, he still flashed his receiver skills often in West Lafayette and accumulated 330 yards on 47 receptions…
That unique combination of rushing potential, receiving skill and athleticism gives Tracy the rare potential to be a playmaker right out of the gates for Big Blue…
If Tracy has a strong camp, he could put himself in the discussion for more than a couple of home run shots each week early. But it’ll likely be another year or two before he’s ready for a leading role in the Big Apple,” wrote Kay.
Given the current state of their offense, the New York Giants should be willing to try anything offensively. They have been lacking playmakers outside of the Barkley for the last few seasons, but are hoping to have hit on two in the 2024 NFL Draft.
As one of the older prospects in this year’s draft class, the 24-year-old Tracy will be motivated to make an impact right away. The opportunity should present itself sooner rather than later in New York, which will get their most productive players on the field as much as possible to overcome a shaky quarterback situation.
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