New York Giants running back Eric Gray had an impressive preseason in Week 1 against the Detroit Lions. He rushed for 52 yards on four carries and two touchdowns and caught four passes for 46 yards receiving. Gray is looking to be the backup running back behind Devin Singletary this season.
Gray did not play much during his rookie season in the NFL. The majority of the carries came from Saquon Barkley a season ago for the Giants.
Pro Football Focus Lists New York Giants Running Back Eric Gray As Offensive Player Of the Week
The second-year running back from Oklahoma needs to have a big preseason to prove he can play for the Giants in 2024. PFF’s Editorial Team said about Gray being the Pro Football Focus Offensive Player Of the Week:
“Gray put together an electric performance during his time on the field, finishing with four carries for 52 yards and two touchdowns —most of which came on an impressive 48-yard touchdown run in the second quarter — in addition to four receptions for 46 yards and a forced missed tackle. The touchdown run may get the most attention, but Gray’s receiving ability could be the key to him earning a real role in New York’s offense.”
The New York Giants will have another preseason game against the Houston Texans on Saturday. With Devin Singletary possibly suiting up, expect Eric Gray to also get some more carries for the Giants in this offense. Gray also told the media after the game on Thursday night:
“I just wanted to put my best foot forward. Like I said, I just want to be Eric Gray; just be me. Last year, I kind of made football more than it is. It’s just football at the end of the day. Just being me.”
Tyrone Tracy Jr. Suffered Injury In Practice Also
Entering training camp for the New York Giants, Devin Singletary, Eric Gray, and Tyrone Tracy Jr. were listed in that order for the running back depth chart. Now with Tracy Jr. sidelined because of an injury he suffered on Tuesday in practice, Gray will most likely be the number two running back for the 2024 season.
One player to watch for in the remainder of the preseason other than Gray will be Dante Miller. With Saquon Barkley leaving for the Philadelphia Eagles in the offseason, many wonder how the Giants running game will operate. However, Gray and the other running backs looked comfortable behind a different offensive line in the first preseason game.
