Andre Williams

Andre Williams leading battle for Giants' backup running back gig

New York Giants running back Andre Williams is in the lead for the team's number-two job in the backfield, says ESPN Giants reporter Jordan Raanan.

What It Means:

Despite a repeated lack of production from Williams, the Giants seem determined to continue giving him opportunities. Raanan claims the soon-to-be 24-year-old (August 28) appears to be second on the pecking order for carries behind starter Rashad Jennings. Fellow reporter Ralph Vacchiano said earlier this week that New York would like to give Williams "a couple of series a game." It sounds like he could cut into Jennings' value by stealing some short-yardage and goal-line work. Shane Vereen owns a specialty role, so he's excluded from the position battle.

Williams had 88 carries at a Rushing Net Expected Points per attempt rate of -0.23 in 2015. This was the third-worst rate among the 72 running backs with at least 50 carries last year. Our models currently project him to see just 17 carries this season, rushing for 52 yards and 0.22 touchdowns.