The New York Giants reached out to the Atlanta Falcons prior to the NFL trade deadline to discuss the possibility of acquiring star running back Bijan Robinson, according to multiple sources. This inquiry represents the latest in a series of moves by New York to strengthen their backfield, a position of focus since head coach John Harbaugh joined the organization earlier this year.
The Giants have actively pursued several high-profile running backs during the current season. In free agency, the team inquired about Kenneth Walker III. During the draft, New York expressed interest in Jeremiyah Love. The club also made a trade offer to the Indianapolis Colts for Jonathan Taylor, which was later withdrawn, and contacted the Tennessee Titans regarding Tony Pollard. Additionally, sources indicated that the Giants explored options with the Baltimore Ravens concerning Justice Hill before the deadline.
It remains unclear whether New York formally extended an offer to Atlanta for Robinson. The 24-year-old is currently the NFL's leading rusher, accumulating 1,130 yards from scrimmage this season. This total places him second in the league, trailing only Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs. While he is widely regarded as one of the best players at his position, several league sources believe the Falcons view Robinson as the face of their franchise and may be reluctant to part with him.
Harbaugh has emphasized a desire to build a physical team centered on a power running game. However, the Giants currently rank 17th in the league in rushing, averaging 112.1 yards per game and 3.9 yards per carry. When asked about his desire to add a playmaker an hour before the deadline, Harbaugh stated that his excitement would depend on the specific player. He noted that while there are players one likes, he seeks a player the team truly loves, suggesting Robinson would fit that category.
Despite the activity, the Giants did not finalize a trade at the deadline. New York had previously offered a second-round draft pick, a future fifth-round selection, and an undisclosed player to the Colts for Taylor. Several executives noted that Indianapolis wanted significantly more compensation and did not appear motivated to move the running back. Harbaugh confirmed that the Giants eventually removed that offer from the table, and the two teams did not seriously re-engage before the deadline passed.
The Giants currently stand first in the NFC East with a record of 5 wins, 2 losses, and 1 tie. The team will proceed with Cam Skattebo as its primary running back. Skattebo is expected to return to the lineup Thursday night against the Washington Commanders after missing a game due to a hamstring injury. He leads the Giants with 418 rushing yards and averages 4.3 yards per carry.
Skattebo has demonstrated significant burst potential, recording the first two carries of his career over 20 yards during a Week 8 overtime victory over the Houston Texans. The second-year player has also faced challenges, including a brief demotion earlier in the season due to fumbles. Other players who have seen significant playing time include Tyrone Tracy Jr. and Devin Singletary, with Tracy currently on injured reserve following a hamstring injury.
