Tyrone Tracy Jr.: Carving His Path among Giants’ Running Back Legends

The New York Giants have long been defined by their powerful and dynamic backfield. From Tiki Barber's versatility to Brandon Jacobs' bruising power, the franchise has seen a lineage of great running backs who left their mark. Now, Tyrone Tracy Jr. has a chance to add his name to that list. He brings a unique skill set that could set him apart from those before him. When discussing great Giants running backs, several names stand out:

Giants' Legacy in the Backfield

Tiki Barber: Barber is the Giants’ all-time leading rusher with 10,449 yards and 55 rushing touchdowns. Known for his sudden quickness and exceptional balance, Barber evolved from a change-of-pace back to one of the most complete runners in the NFL. His ability to catch passes and make defenders miss in space made him dangerous in any situation. He had three straight seasons with over 2,000 yards from scrimmage before retiring at his peak. Although he struggled early with fumbles, Barber reinvented his technique later in his career—something Tyrone Tracy would be wise to emulate.

Brandon Jacobs: Jacobs was one of the most physically intimidating runners the league has ever seen. At six foot four and over 260 pounds, he was essentially a linebacker playing running back, and he made defenders pay for trying to tackle him high. He finished his Giants career with 5,094 rushing yards and a franchise-record 60 rushing touchdowns. Jacobs was a key piece of both Super Bowl XLII and XLVI teams, often picking up tough yards in critical playoff moments. His ability to wear down defenses made him an ideal complement to quicker backs like Ahmad Bradshaw.

Saquon Barkley: Drafted second overall in 2018, Saquon Barkley entered the NFL with enormous expectations, and in his rookie year, he lived up to them. He racked up over 2,000 scrimmage yards and won Offensive Rookie of the Year thanks to his blend of vision, speed, and power. Despite multiple injuries and inconsistent offensive line play, Barkley still managed two 1,000-yard seasons and regularly flashed highlight-reel ability. His jump cuts and breakaway speed drew comparisons to Barry Sanders, though his up-and-down production left many fans wanting more. Still, his talent was undeniable, and he provided the Giants with hope during a difficult stretch of seasons.

Rodney Hampton: Rodney Hampton was the picture of consistency during his eight-year career in New York. He posted five straight 1,000-yard rushing seasons and finished with over 6,800 rushing yards, ranking him among the franchise's best. He wasn’t flashy but incredibly effective, Hampton’s north-south style and toughness made him a reliable bell cowback. He was selected to two Pro Bowls and played a key role in the Giants’ 1990 Super Bowl run, though a leg injury sidelined him for the playoffs. His durability and production set a high bar for Giants’ backs throughout the ’90s.

Ron Johnson: Ron Johnson made history as the first Giants running back to rush for over 1,000 yards in a season, accomplishing the feat in both 1970 and 1972. He was a smooth, all-purpose back who could run between the tackles and contribute as a receiver. A two-time Pro Bowler, Johnson gave the Giants offensive stability during an otherwise turbulent era. Injuries shortened his career, but his impact was undeniable in laying the groundwork for future dual-threat backs. His legacy remains one of quiet excellence and pioneering productivity.

Ahmad Bradshaw: Bradshaw brought heart, balance, and intensity to every carry during his time with the Giants. Though undersized compared to his backfield mate Brandon Jacobs, Bradshaw was fearless and had a knack for squeezing through tight lanes. He rushed for over 4,200 yards and 32 touchdowns in New York and played a crucial role in both Super Bowl victories. His game-winning touchdown in Super Bowl XLVI against the Patriots cemented his place in franchise lore. Bradshaw’s physical running style and mental toughness made him a fan favorite and a leader in the locker room.

Tracy’s Unique Skill Set

Unlike previous Giants backs, Tracy didn’t begin his career as a running back. A former wide receiver at Iowa and Purdue, he transitioned to the backfield late in college. That experience gives him a different approach to the position—one built on route-running, open-field vision, and soft hands out of the backfield. As a rookie in 2024, Tracy flashed his potential, posting 839 rushing yards, 284 receiving yards, and six total touchdowns. He showcased his ability to create plays in space and serve as a weapon in the passing game, something the Giants have lacked since Barber. With a revamped offense that includes quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston, the Giants have an opportunity to maximize Tracy’s skill set in both the running and passing game. But for him to take the next step in 2025, there are areas where he must improve.

Key Areas for Growth in 2025

1. Ball Security

Ball security is the most immediate area where Tracy needs to improve. In his rookie season, he put the ball on the ground multiple times, including one costly fumble in a tight game. That’s a red flag for any running back, especially one hoping to become a feature player. Tiki Barber faced similar issues early in his career and reinvented his ball-carrying technique, which led to a complete turnaround. Tracy must follow that blueprint and make ball control a point of emphasis in training camp. High-and-tight carry drills, grip-strengthening workouts, and consistent film reviews can help him clean up that aspect of his game. The Giants can’t afford turnovers in close contests—Tracy has to prove he can be trusted with the rock.

2. Pass Protection

Pass protection is often the difference between being a rotational back and a three-down threat. Tracy’s background as a wide receiver means he didn’t get many reps in blitz pickup during college. That showed at times last season, as he occasionally struggled to identify and block rushing linebackers. To take the next step, he needs to improve his recognition of defensive schemes and refine his blocking technique. Adding strength to his lower body and spending extra time in the film room will help him gain confidence. With quarterbacks like Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston under center, protecting the passer becomes even more critical. If Tracy can master this area, he’ll stay on the field in high-leverage situations.

3. Vision and Patience

Tracy is an explosive athlete, but sometimes his eagerness leads to premature decisions. Great backs know when to wait for blocks to develop and when to hit the hole with purpose. Last year, there were plays where he bounced outside unnecessarily or outran his blockers. Improving his vision and patience will allow him to maximize yardage and keep the offense on schedule. Watching films of patient runners like Le’Veon Bell or even Saquon Barkley in his prime could serve as a useful learning tool. The Giants’ offensive line isn’t perfect, so Tracy must learn to work within the play’s structure. If he becomes more deliberate and disciplined with his reads, his production will rise significantly.

4. Physicality in Short-Yardage Situations

While Tracy isn’t built like Brandon Jacobs, he still needs to develop more physicality in short-yardage scenarios. Too often in 2024, he was stopped behind the line or failed to fall forward in key moments. The ability to grind out tough yards is what separates average backs from dependable starters. He can add functional muscle this off-season and work.

The Road to Greatness

If Tyrone Tracy Jr. can stay focused and continue developing, he has a real chance to etch his name into the Giants’ rich history of great running backs. His unique skill set as a former wide receiver makes him a modern offensive weapon, capable of creating mismatches in both the run and pass game. With Saquon Barkley gone and a new-look offense led by veterans Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston, the opportunity for a breakout season is right in front of him. However, potential alone won’t be enough as Tracy must improve his ball security, pass protection, and physicality in short-yardage situations. Consistency and trust will define his rise. If he puts it all together, Tracy won’t just follow in the footsteps of Giants legends—he’ll add a new, dynamic chapter to the franchise’s backfield legacy.