​There’s plenty to be excited about regarding how explosive the New York Giants offense could be in 2026, especially if Malik Nabers is healthy to start the season. Jaxson Dart is expected to make huge strides in his second year, and the team added a bevy of receiving targets this offseason, including Darnell Mooney, Isaiah Likely, Calvin Austin II, and even brought back fan favorite Odell Beckham Jr. In addition, the Giants signed 300-pound fullback Patrick Ricard, which has fans envisioning him clearing space for Cam Skattebo. Yet one player who hasn’t received enough attention is third-year running back Tyrone Tracy Jr.
The Giants drafted Tracy with the 166th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, and since arriving in New York, he has emerged as the team’s most versatile offensive weapon. Not only is he the only Giant to post over 1,000 all-purpose yards in each of the last two seasons, but he’s also the only back in his draft class to reach that milestone in his first two pro seasons. Despite these accomplishments, the value he brings to the offense hasn’t been highlighted enough. That could all change once the season gets underway.
Tracy began the 2025 season as New York’s lead back before a shoulder injury in Week 3 against the Kansas City Chiefs sidelined him for two games. During his absence, Skattebo stepped in as the starter. When Tracy returned in Week 6, Skattebo outpaced him in the following two games, recording 35 carries to Tracy’s 13. Then in Week 8, a gruesome leg injury ended Skattebo’s season, allowing Tracy to reclaim the lead back role. The 26-year-old finished his second NFL season with 740 rushing yards on 176 carries, adding 36 receptions for 288 yards and two touchdowns.
Despite the ongoing rotation with Skattebo and Devin Singletary, Tracy is poised to deliver the most efficient season of his career. The addition of 10th overall pick guard Francis Mauigoa should bolster the offensive line, helping Tracy maximize his career average of 4.3 yards per carry. New offensive coordinator Matt Nagy will also leverage Tracy’s playmaking ability as a receiver to create multiple mismatches for defenses. No other running back in the league is better suited to be a dynamic pass catcher than Tracy, a claim rooted in his unique background.
Tracy’s path to becoming a true multi-faceted threat starts with his early versatility. He played wide receiver during his first four seasons at Iowa, catching 66 passes before transferring to Purdue, where he transitioned to running back for his final two college seasons. That background makes him a matchup nightmare for linebackers, who simply aren’t equipped to match his speed and agility. He can line up in multiple spots on the field, forcing defenses to account for him in ways that few backs can match. His ability to create space, run routes, and contribute in the receiving game gives Nagy a valuable tool for crafting creative plays and exploiting favorable matchups.
The Giants’ offensive system could benefit immensely from Tracy’s skill set. As the team upgrades the line and continues to diversify its receiving options, Tracy’s presence out of the backfield will add another layer to the offense. Opponents will have to contend with a back who can burst through gaps for steady rushing production and slip into routes as a reliable target in the passing game. With continued development, Tracy has the potential to be the most efficient component of the Giants’ offense in 2026, delivering big plays and consistent production that amplify the effectiveness of every other weapon on the roster.