New York Giants could have potential sleeper in rookie running back

The New York Giants may have a sleeper on their hands in one of their Day 3 picks.

After using a fifth-round pick on running back Tyrone Tracy Jr. in the 2024 NFL Draft, many analysts see a path to a contributing role pretty early on.

Even though he'll start the season behind starter Devin Singletary on the depth chart, Vinnie Iyer of Sporting News believes Tracy is a sleeper to watch at training camp.

Tracy is third on the depth chart behind Devin Singletary and Eric Gray as the Giants work to replace the production of Saquon Barkley. There are several late-drafted backs around the league with similar opportunities on shaky depth charts, but Tracy has the advantage of working behind more of an elevated backup and another youngster.

Some might even argue that Tracy is already ascending to the immediate backup role before training camp. The Purdue product took first-team reps over Eric Gray during minicamp.

Tracy doesn't profile as a three-down back, but he does bring a unique skill set to the backfield. His shiftiness between the tackles is evident, and he brings high prowess as a receiver out of the backfield.

Tracy is still developing the nuances of being a running back — he made the position switch from wide receiver toward the end of his collegiate career.

The biggest obstacle for Tracy will be understanding and developing traits as a pass protector. It's a common theme for almost all rookie running backs.

But if Tracy wants a sustainable role as a change-of-pace back in the Giants offense, he'll need to prove his worth in that area.

Regardless, Tracy brings some intriguing talent to a thin backfield depth chart so he should be one to watch at training camp.