Previewing the NY Giants’ running back position group
Returning Backup #1: Wayne Gallman
It’s now or never for Wayne Gallman. The “Wayne Train” was taken in the 4th round of the 2017 Draft in Jerry Reese’s last draft as GM.
Keep in mind Dave Gettleman didn’t bring in Gallman. He was inactive for the last five games of 2019. He will be fighting for a roster spot in 2020.
Gallman has struggled to find a groove in his first three NFL seasons. After starring for Clemson, he seemed like a player likely to succeed in the NFL. That hasn’t happened yet due to Gallman’s inconsistent play which has led to inconsistent snaps and playing time.
He is facing a make-or-break training camp to continue playing for New York. If Gallman doesn’t show improvement, the Giants can cut him with little financial ramifications.
Gallman has shown promise as a scatback who can catch and make guys miss. He is a talented player but now needs to put it all together to have a role in the offense.
Gallman will compete for complementary roles such as short yardage, goal line, and third-down situations. He will not be relied on to take on a starting role unless Saquon goes down with an injury again.
Look for Gallman to get one last shot with the team to prove he belongs to stay with the team. If he has a nice camp and strings together a nice preseason, I expect him to make the roster as the team’s third back primarily used on special teams and in certain yardage situations for the offense. If Gallman fails to impress the new coaching staff, he will be cut and looking for a new opportunity to jumpstart his NFL career.
Returning Backup #2: Jon Hilliman
Hilliman joined the GMen after going undrafted in 2019 from the in-state Rutgers Scarlet Knights. He worked his butt off and made the team’s Practice Squad in August.
His big break came in Week 6 when he got to start against the Patriots. He missed his golden opportunity as he struggled with only 38 yards on 11 carries and a costly fumble that was returned for a Patriots touchdown.
Simply put, Hilliman is facing an uphill battle to make the 2020 team. He will need to outwork and outperform veterans with a better football pedigree than himself.
Hilliman is an unlikely suspect to make the team’s roster. I expect him to be on the team’s practice squad and spend another year developing and refining his game in order to compete for the team’s active roster next year.