Giants sign RB Matt Breida amid Saquon Barkley trade rumors

The New York Giants continue to reshape the roster in the early days of spring. 

Per Dan Salomone of the club's website, the Giants officially signed free agent running back Matt Breida on Monday. Breida spent the 2021 season with the Buffalo Bills, where he played under current Giants head coach and former Buffalo offensive coordinator Brian Daboll. This transaction also reunites the 27-year-old with Big Blue general manager Joe Schoen, who previously worked as Bills assistant general manager until January. 

Breida appeared in nine regular-season games during his only campaign in Buffalo and recorded 125 rushing yards and a touchdown on 26 carries. The veteran also accumulated seven catches for 72 yards and two scores. 

New York's acquisition of Breida comes amid constant rumors that Schoen could be shopping running back and 2018 second-overall draft selection Saquon Barkley. Schoen admitted in late January he had "to clear out $40 million from a bloated and mismanaged salary cap this spring" and later hinted at the NFL Scouting Combine he could be willing to part ways with the 2018 Offensive Rookie of the Year set to play on the fifth-year option of his rookie contract worth slightly over $7.2 million.

Breida likely won't be a long-term answer for the Giants' rushing attack but is familiar with Daboll’s offense and could serve as a solid "bridge" option if an advertised contender spends even a fourth-round pick on Barkley.