The New York Giants certainly have an issue to address at the running back position. Starter David Wilson said all week leading up to the season opener that he was ready to take over as the team's leading rusher. He was ready to be the top guy. However, he fumbled twice against the Dallas Cowboys, resulting in his benching. The move could result in the Giants making a few moves that are not in Wilson's favor.
The running back officially has the reputation of being prone to turnovers. This is his second season where he was benched as a result of fumbles. Those dropped balls likely cost the Giants the win in Dallas. With a depleted running back corps, head coach Tom Coughlin is not ready to pull the plug on Wilson just yet, but is also not pleased with the reputation the former first-rounder has.
"All we talked about all week long was they were coming to strip the ball. We can be better. He can get better at that," Coughlin said, via the New York Daily News. "He can run with two hands on the ball just like anybody else. Not going to play unless they can hang onto the ball. It's demoralizing to the whole team. He is a talented young man. We will get him right even if he has to run around the field with two balls. We need him!"
Coughlin is right about the Giants needing Wilson to improve. Potential starter Andre Brown was placed on short-term injured reserve so the team will not have him until mid-season. That leaves Da'Rel Scott to step in for the struggling Wilson. The third-year back had five carries for 23 yards and five receptions for 51 yards on Sunday. Scott has been very confident in his abilities on the field. After Brown was lost, the young player stressed that the team did not need to go out and sign anyone.
Signing a veteran might be the best option for the Giants. The team has certainly considered a few options on the market. Every veteran without a team will sign for very cheap so cost is not an issue. Recently the team worked out Jonathan Dwyer, Beanie Wells and Leon Washington. Dwyer is set to re-sign with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Leon Washington re-signed with the Patriots. This leaves few options on the table.
Certainly, Willis McGahee and Michael Turner are the best veterans available. Coughlin has expressed that a veteran is the better way to go, but has yet to fully move on from Wilson. The head coach was waiting until after Week One to determine the status of the position. After Wilson's performance it is likely a few backs will be visiting team facilities this year.
