New York Giants 2017 Roster Preview: Running Backs
By Sean Dyer
Paul Perkins and Wayne Gallman
Paul Perkins was a fifth round pick in 2016 who appeared in 14 games last season.
Perkins saw his role increase as the season progressed, eventually working his way into the starting lineup in Week 17. In his lone start, the UCLA product carried the ball 21 times for 102 yards, the only 100+ yard game all season for the Giants.
After New York passed on major free agents and top draft choices at running back this offseason, Perkins has been given the keys for 2017.
The Giants hope that the addition of offensive lineman D.J. Fluker and the continued development of tackles Ereck Flowers and Bobby Hart will open up more running lanes.
Perkins averaged a Giants-best 4.1 yards per carry in 2016 and he will see even more touches this season as the lead back.
The big addition New York made to its running back room this offseason was spending a fourth round pick on Wayne Gallman.
Gallman is a tough runner who fights for extra yards. While at Clemson, he was one of the best backs in the country when it came to yards after contact.
The 6’0″ 210 lb. running back will complement Paul Perkins nicely, wearing down defenses with his powerful running style.
Just a rookie, Gallman may not see a lot of work in pass protection early in the year as he continues to adjust to the NFL. He may see an expansion of playing time as the year goes on, similar to what we saw with Perkins last season.
Gallman will slot in either second or third on the Giants running back depth chart to start the 2017 season.