New York Giants second-year running back Eric Gray impressed in Week 1 of the preseason, gaining 98 yards from scrimmage and scoring two touchdowns against the Detroit Lions.
Gray made his presence felt on the ground and through the air, breaking off a 48-yard run that included an ankle-breaking juke, while also hauling in an impressive over-the-shoulder 24-yard catch.
The stout performance earned Gray the first Giants Wire Player of the Game honor of 2024.
Pro Football Focus also took notice, naming Gray to their Team of the Week and awarding him Offensive Player of the Week.
Gray put together an electric performance during his time on the field, finishing with four carries for 52 yards and two touchdowns — most of which came on an impressive 48-yard touchdown run in the second quarter — in addition to four receptions for 46 yards and a forced missed tackle. The touchdown run may get the most attention, but Gray’s receiving ability could be the key to him earning a real role in New York’s offense.
Given how New York deployed its running backs Thursday night, the 2023 fifth-rounder appears to be behind Singletary and Tracy on New York’s depth chart; however, Thursday night’s performance keeps him in the running for the primary backup running back gig.
Gray led the Giants with a 90.2 overall grade in Week 1 of the preseason.
In addition to Gray, fellow running backs Tyrone Tracy Jr. and Dante Miller also impressed thanks, in part, to a more functional offensive line.
