If there was a silver lining to the New York Giants’ rocky 2024 season, it was the emergence of a promising rookie class that provides hope heading into 2025. First-round receiver Malik Nabers already looks like a star, cornerback Dru Phillips has shown real potential in the slot, and the team may have uncovered five new starters in just one draft class — at least for the time being.
One standout was fifth-round running back Tyrone Tracy Jr. By midseason, Tracy had overtaken veteran Devin Singletary for the starting role, seizing his chance and injecting life into the offense with his ability to generate big plays.
Still, Day 3 running backs often face an uphill battle to hold their spots, and Tracy is no exception. Rookie Cam Skattebo is now in the mix and could cut into Tracy’s workload. For now, the two appear to be a promising one-two punch, offering different styles and helping solidify the Giants’ backfield.
The key for Tracy to keep his lead role? Proving he can be a long-term starter. He knows that the leap from intriguing rookie to true breakout player starts with one thing: consistency.
I think consistency is the biggest thing in the NFL,” Tracy said Thursday. “If you look at all the great running backs, they show up every year, consistently. That’s what I want to be—one of the great Giants backs—but it starts with showing up every day in practice.”
The offensive line situation brings mixed news. The Giants are bringing back all of last season’s starters, meaning no major upgrades were made. Yet much of Tracy’s production in 2024 came after left tackle Andrew Thomas went down in Week 6. Without him, the O-line struggled mightily, as did the offense overall.
A healthy line and improved quarterback play could be critical for Tracy’s development. Now entering Year 2, he believes experience will also be an asset.
“I’ve been through it now,” he said. “I know what to expect. I know training camp is coming, and I know how to prepare my body and mind. But I’m still grinding. There’s no comfort zone in the NFL. Everyone’s trying to take your spot. I just want to earn my coaches’ trust and my teammates’ trust every single day.”
Originally a wide receiver, Tracy exceeded expectations in his rookie campaign, showing strong instincts and proving he could handle more than just passing-down duties. If he can take another step forward, the Giants’ backfield could become one of the more intriguing units to watch in 2025.
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