New York Giants: 5 bold predictions for the offseason

Sep 14, 2014; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills running back

(28) runs the ball during the second half against the Miami Dolphins at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Buffalo beats Miami 29 to 10. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports

3. The Giants will sign a (relatively) big-name running back

New York has said it wants to address the run game in the offseason, and there was mentioning of bringing in a veteran change-of-pace running back. Adding a dynamic, elusive back to the mix would add another element to the Giants predictable run game.

Rashad Jennings and Andre Williams, although a talented dyad, could benefit from playing with a back that is well versed in running and catching the ball.

Don’t expect the Giants to splurge on a player like DeMarco Murray. Instead, they should be more than content with a reliable veteran that has a dynamic play style. Some of the possible names are Shane Vereen, Stevan Ridley, C.J. Spiller, and Frank Gore.

Gore likely won’t join New York because he still thinks he can be an every-down back, and being part of a timeshare might not appeal to him. Vereen will likely see a big payday due to his contributions to the Patriots’ Super Bowl run, so I don’t think the Giants will necessarily want to pay top dollar for him.

Ridley and Spiller are probably the two more likely options. Spiller would provide the offense with dynamic playmaking ability, and he’s a threat to score any time he touches the ball. He also has experience as a kick returner.

Ridley, despite his fumbling issues, is another back that is uniquely versatile. His slashing running style and surprising elusiveness make him a viable option in the backfield.

Perhaps the most logical option, though, is Washington’s Roy Helu. Slightly underutilized playing behind Alfred Morris, Helu is a good receiver and his pass blocking is far better than Andre Williams‘. The best part about signing Helu would definitely be the cost. New York could sign Helu for a fraction of the price of the aforementioned backs.

Next: Retaining a pass-rusher