Giants Sign Backup RB Kelley

The New York Giants became shorthanded at the running back position early this week when rookie Tyrone Tracy Jr. went down with an ankle injury. He was carted off with an air cast, but was fortunate to receive news that his rookie season did not end prematurely.

In the meantime, though, New York needs warm bodies in the backfield. Starters are expected to participate in Saturday’s preseason contest against the Houston Texans, but Devin Singletary won’t be expected to carry the load for long.

Eric Gray looked good in the preseason opener, but with Tracy out and Dante “Turbo” Miller dealing with a hamstring ailment, a new partner in the backfield was necessary.

Enter Joshua Kelley.

The Giants signed Kelley on Thursday, releasing safety Elijah Riley in the process.

Where Tracy and Gray hoped to bring newfound explosiveness to the backfield, Kelley is more of a between-the-tackles runner who succeeds with contact balance and technique rather than burst and big plays in the open field.

That divergence from the rest of New York’s depth could earn him a roster spot. If Miller is bound for the practice squad or Tracy begins the year on injured reserve (purely hypothetical, the Giants’ plans are unknown), Kelley would be a strong fit in the backfield. He can spell Singletary on early downs and leave Gray in his own distinct role, rather than competing for the same snaps.

In the event of a Singletary injury, New York would be behind the eight-ball on short-yardage attempts. Kelley mitigates that hole and has a strong analytical backing, too.

Related: What Did Giants Learn About Gray, Tracy in Preseason Opener?

By Pro Football Focus’ rushing yards over expected , Kelley ranked seventh among backs with at least 100 carries. The Los Angeles Chargers struggled to block, but Kelley averaged nearly a half yard more than he was expected to, on average. That’s meaningful, especially with an improved offensive line in New York.

For now, Kelley is preseason fodder called upon because of injuries. His skill set and fit in the backfield could earn him a roster spot.