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New York Giants: A Look into the 2017 backfield situation

By Joshua Silverman

Jan 1, 2017; Landover, MD, USA; New York Giants running back Paul Perkins (28) rushes the ball as Washington Redskins linebacker Preston Smith (94) looks on during the first half at FedEx Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 1, 2017; Landover, MD, USA; New York Giants running back Paul Perkins (28) rushes the ball as Washington Redskins linebacker Preston Smith (94) looks on during the first half at FedEx Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports /
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New York Giants: A Look into the 2017 backfield situation
Sep 12, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA;San Francisco 49ers running back Shaun Draughn (24) carries the ball against the Los Angeles Rams during a NFL game at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

The Rest

Shaun Draughn and Orleans Darkwa make up the rest of the Giants backfield. An undrafted free agent, Draughn’s career began in 2011 with the Washington Redskins. Draughn’s first carry came in 2012 with the Kansas City Chiefs and only once has remained on the same team for more than a season (2015/2016 with the 49ers.)

His best season came in 2016 when he played in all 16 games and rushed for four touchdowns while catching an additional two. The Giants signed Draughn to a contract earlier this offseason.

Darkwa entered the league in 2014 and started his career with the Dolphins. He stayed in Miami for a season before coming to New York. In three years in the Big Apple, Darkwa has compiled less than 300 yards on 71 carries and four touchdowns. He has mostly been a non-factor on offense but has added some value on special teams.

The Giants will most likely enter the 2017 season with only one of these two running backs on the roster.

Next: Complete 2017 NFL Draft First Round Grades

Bottom Line

The Giants ground game is nothing to write home about. However, it could prove to be one of their best in the last few years. Vereen, Perkins, and Gallman all offer different skill sets that will compliment Manning and the Giants’ elite receivers.

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