With The First Pick
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Giants running game key to NFC East title

By Maurice Barksdale

Dec 4, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; New York Giants running back Paul Perkins (28) rushes the ball against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the first quarter at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 4, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; New York Giants running back Paul Perkins (28) rushes the ball against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the first quarter at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /
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The New York Giants have improved their passing game immensely this off-season but have they done enough to improve their running game?

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The Giants have added pieces to their offense this off-season that will greatly improve their 25th rank passing game.  The additions of free agent wide receiver Brandon Marshall and rookie tight end Evan Engram gives quarterback Eli Manning more weapons to attack defenses with.

They already have one of the best wide receivers in the game in Odell Beckham Jr. and Sterling Shepard played well as a rookie.  The New York Giants passing game will be among the best in the NFL.

However, the Giants running attack is still one of the biggest question marks on the team.  Their leading rusher from last season Rashad Jennings is no longer with the team.  This leaves second year back Paul Perkins as the man atop the depth chart.

Perkins showed that has the potential of a feature back but it’s unknown if he can consistently get it done over the course if an entire season.  Perkins rushed for 456 yards in 2016 on just 112 carries.  He also added 15 receptions for 162 yards.  Perkins scored no touchdowns though.

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The Giants also return change of pace back Shane Vereen and draft rookie Wayne Gallman in the fourth round of the draft.  Gallman brings size and power running ability to the table.  He could end up being the starter if Paul Perkins fails to nail down the job.

The Giants signed Shaun Draughn as a free agent to add more competition but Paul Perkins is still considered the number one option.  Perkins is talented enough to make a huge jump in 2017 but the question is will he?

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The Giants are taking a big chance here.  The passing game is looking good but it could be hindered if the Giants can’t run the ball.  They ranked 29th in the league in rushing last season and a failure to improve on that could damage the New York Giants chances of winning the NFC East.

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