The Giants' 2014 draft represented a dramatic shift in the organization's philosophy, focusing more on character and tangible, translatable production.
That's why Boston College running back Andre Williams, an eventual fourth-round pick, enticed so much. But entering his third season, he has less than 1,000 rushing yards to his name and eight total touchdowns. The Giants selected another running back in the 2016 draft -- Paul Perkins -- which could bury Williams on a depth chart behind Rashad Jennings, Shane Vereen and any newcomers who make a splash during training camp.
New head coach Ben McAdoo warned reporters not to forget about Williams, who posted a Heisman-worthy 2,177 yards and 18 touchdowns during his senior season.
Williams, speaking with reporters this week, agreed.
"I just wholeheartedly agree with him," Williams said, via ESPN.com. "I know what I'm capable of, and I look forward to being able to show that on the field this year."
Giants fans have spent each of the last two years projecting Williams to be their feature back once the rotating cast of older free-agent rushers filtered out, but a change in offense and perhaps philosophy have put that theory on hold.
Vereen's pass-catching ability (a career-high 59 catches last season) makes him a clear favorite to be on the field for a majority of snaps in 2016.
Williams was interesting because he challenged the Giants to weigh college production against the dangers of drafting an over-worked running back. Williams carried the ball 355 times during his senior season, which may have set off some alarm bells, however explosion has never been the issue. McAdoo may just be participating in the all-too-common offseason trope -- underutilized player will have big season in 2017 -- but he may be letting us know that the changing of the guard is finally here.
