The New York Giants are reportedly exploring options to bolster their running back position amid ongoing challenges with their current backups. Head coach John Harbaugh has expressed a desire to have a lead running back similar to Saquon Barkley or Derrick Henry, although he did not explicitly mention any specific player. However, Jonathan Taylor of the Indianapolis Colts has frequently been linked to the Giants, particularly following the Colts’ recent firing of general manager Chris Ballard.
An NFL source familiar with the Colts indicated skepticism that the team would pursue a full rebuild involving the sale of cornerstone players like Taylor and guard Quenton Nelson. While the Giants previously allowed Barkley to leave in free agency rather than agree to his contract demands, the team’s current running back struggles have intensified discussions around making a significant investment at the position. Harbaugh’s frustration stems from a combination of performance and availability issues among the backups: Cam Skattebo and Tyrone Tracy Jr. have experienced costly turnovers, Devin Singletary was inactive for three games, and Najee Harris was recently released.
A source close to the Giants said the franchise remains open to acquiring a top-tier running back “when the time and place is right.” With the team competing for its first NFC East title since 2011 and ranking 22nd in rushing offense, the opportunity to improve the ground game ahead of the Nov. 10 trade deadline could be compelling. ESPN NFL analyst Jason McCourty cautioned against giving up future assets without securing a long-term answer at quarterback, emphasizing the need for sustainable roster building.
Taylor, 27, had a standout season last year leading the NFL with 323 carries for 1,585 yards and 18 rushing touchdowns. He is averaging four yards per carry this season and is under contract with about $32 million due in 2027-28. McCourty noted that acquiring Taylor could provide not only an immediate boost but also a foundational piece to support quarterback Jaxson Dart, especially considering Taylor’s ability to draw defensive attention and change game plans.
In addition to Taylor, the Giants reportedly have several other potential trade targets at running back. Among them are Kyren Williams and Blake Corum of the Los Angeles Rams—Corum’s usage is increasing while Williams’ role diminishes—and Tony Pollard of the Tennessee Titans, who is in the final year of his contract and performing consistently despite his team’s struggles. Brian Robinson Jr. of the Atlanta Falcons, Tyler Allgeier of the Arizona Cardinals, Braelon Allen of the New York Jets, and Rico Dowdle of the Pittsburgh Steelers also figure into considerations, each bringing varying degrees of upside, contract situations, and fits with Harbaugh’s physical style of play.
The Giants face decisions balancing immediate needs with long-term roster strategy as they seek to improve a position that has been a source of instability this season.