Year in Review: Giants Running Backs Offer Small Bright Spot

That starts with running back Tyrone Tracy Jr. Despite not seeing real playing time until Week 5, Tracy exceeded every expectation. From third-down back to full-time starter, Tracy stole veteran Devin Singletary’s job and stole the hearts of the New York faithful in the process.

He ran for 839 yards and five touchdowns while adding 284 yards and a score through the air. He joined receiver Malik Nabers to create the third rookie duo in NFL history with 1,000 yards from scrimmage in a season and has earned the right to take the first carry in 2025.

Tracy was further along the developmental curve than anticipated and has a shot at being a legitimate asset for the next good Giants offense. Working on ball security and pass protection are the next steps in cementing a long-term role.

That role, to some extent, was supposed to belong to Singletary. As a back who’s too slow, small, and stiff to dominate on the ground, Singletary’s technique and contact balance make him a competent running back and a strong litmus test for one’s offensive line. He’s not going to break off long runs, but he is (generally) going to maximize what his blockers give him.

Posting a career-low 3.9 yards per attempt is an indictment on the performance up front. Singletary underperformed his modest contract but is totally fine as an ancillary piece of the 2025 backfield.

Eric Gray didn’t take the leap some of his fans sought for him in 2024, despite a rookie and cheap veteran opening the door for some kind of opportunity. His biggest impact may have been the Week 5 fumble that gave Tracy the green light he needed, and he’ll be on the roster bubble in the summer.

Ultimately, the Giants finished 21st on the ground by expected points added per play and 23rd in success rate (rbsdm). Given the state of the offensive line by year’s end, that’s almost an accomplishment.

Grade: B