A continuous topic of discussion this offseason around the NFL is the changes being made to the kickoff part of the game.
The NFL put in motion this offseason to adopt a hybrid kickoff setup that was inspired by the XFL. The focus is to reduce injuries on arguably the most dangerous play in an NFL game, but it also may afford the opportunity for bigger returns.
The New York Giants were adamant about rotating several players in kickoff scenarios throughout the spring workouts, and it will be a massive part of training camp as well.
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In suggesting which player each NFL team should use as their return man on kickoffs, Anthony DiBona of Pro Football Network landed on Giants rookie running back Tyrone Tracy Jr.
“Following the departure of Saquon Barkley, the Giants are looking for help at running back. Rookie Tyrone Tracy Jr. should be in the mix for some snaps in New York’s backfield, but he could be the team’s kick returner as well. At Purdue, Tracy averaged 25.5 yards per kick return in 2023,” DiBona wrote.
Tracy was one of the top players rotating through during the kickoff drills in the spring workouts so this wouldn’t be a surprise at all.
MORE: Giants rookie quickly climbing running back depth chart
The wide receiver-turned-running-back is an ideal fit for the role considering his explosiveness, elusiveness and experience as a return man in college.
Tracy is competing for the backup running back role behind starter Devin Singletary, but he could already have a prominent role on special teams.
Other players the Giants are likely to consider for the role include Singletary, Wan’Dale Robinson and Darius Slayton.
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