Peyton Hillis re-signs with New York Giants
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) hands off to running back Peyton Hillis (44) at MetLife Stadium. The Seahawks won the game 23-0. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
The New York Giants are hoping for a talented running back duo of Andre Brown and David Wilson going into the 2014 season, but they simply cannot count on Wilson being healthy after suffering a severe neck injury last season that threatened his career. Wilson should be fine, but he’s definitely not a guarantee. The Giants need more depth at the position, because an injury to Brown could be disastrous for the Giants rushing attack, especially if Michael Cox doesn’t progress as hoped going into his second season. As of right now, the Giants biggest need is to make upgrades on the offensive line (they have interest in top free agent centers Brian De La Puente and Evan Dietrich-Smith), but they could also use more help at RB.
It looks like the Giants have decided to address the depth at the position by keeping one of their own, as the Star-Ledger’s Conor Orr reports that the Giants have re-signed veteran RB/FB Peyton Hillis to a two-year deal worth $1.8 million. Any deal for Hillis was always expected to be cheap, and he’ll be the team’s No. 3 back this season.
Hillis had 73 carries for 247 yards last season, and he’s a plodder in every sense. The 28-year-0ld does offer versatility due to his underrated hands out of the backfield and quality blocking, so he’s a decent enough depth option. This signing isn’t a significant one, though, and Hillis will continue to be an insurance policy against any more injuries in the Giants backfield.