As the New York Giants progress through spring and head toward summer, the team is preparing to take a step forward in their second season under head coach Joe Judge. After a successful 2021 free agency class and NFL draft, the Giants have added plenty of talent to help both sides of the football, but until they adapt to the scheme and host in-person training, they can’t put it to the test.
Thankfully, the Giants will have a full preseason to work with and in-person training rather than virtual to expedite their learning process. Last season, the Giants didn’t have much time together as a team, which forced them to utilized live games to iron out their mistakes and weaknesses. Ultimately, some of their issues dragged on throughout the season, which limited their production on offense specifically.
One of the major problems they faced was the loss of running back Saquon Barkley, who tore his ACL in week two against the Chicago Bears. While most believed he would be ready for the start of the 2021 season, co-owner John Tisch seemed skeptical when asked via TMZ.
Tish stated, “Saquon’s recovery is going well, and I think we’re very pleased with free agency and the draft.”
He also went on to say he doesn’t know if Saquon will be ready for the start of the year, which is likely why the Giants went out and signed Devontae Booker to a deal that most might claim as overzealous. They are paying Booker $5.5 million over two years, but he likely fits the scheme they plan to run and feel comfortable with him if Saquon is unable to play for whatever reason.
The New York Giants added another RB to compete:
Aside from Barkley and Booker, the Giants also hosted former Philadelphia Eagle Corey Clement over the weekend in a tryout. Clement has experience in the Super Bowl, making a few clutch plays that helped Philadelphia secure the victory. With that quality experience and some production in the past, the Giants felt as though Clement could be an asset for them during camp, at the very least.
Corey enjoyed his best season back in 2017 when he was 23 years old. Over 16 games, he recorded 321 yards on the ground, 123 yards through the air, and six total touchdowns. He didn’t turn the ball over during that season, showing solid production when called upon in both rushing and receiving.
Having a back who is capable of being utilized in various manipulations is always a benefit, considering he will likely be extremely cheap. The Giants will carry him through camp and see if he can push for a roster spot as a reserve back.
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