DENVER — In his rookie season, Tyrone Tracy Jr. had a modest start. He only gained 29 yards on 12 carries as a backup running back. However, everything changed when he stepped in for the injured Devin Singletary, rushing 18 times for 129 yards in a victory against Seattle. By the end of the year, he had amassed a team-high 839 yards.
The Giants are optimistic that he can have a similar resurgence this season.
This year, Tracy has played in four games but has only recorded 26 rushing attempts and 74 yards, missing the last two games due to a partially dislocated shoulder. His return last week wasn’t quite what he hoped for; he managed just four carries for six yards, while rookie Cam Scatterbo shined with a season-high 98 yards. The intent is for Tracy to pair up with Scatterbo to form a formidable running duo.
Tracy acknowledged his limitations against the Eagles, admitting he felt a bit rusty. Yet, he believes he’s ready to contribute significantly against the Broncos this Sunday.
“When you dislocate your shoulder, you have to take it slow when returning,” Tracy mentioned. “It’s tough to replicate game movements because they rely so much on instinct.” He slowly eased back onto the field but was cautious about risking his shoulder. They were careful not to push him unnecessarily.
To aid his recovery, Tracy wore a protective harness. He indicated that while he did experience some shoulder discomfort, he felt otherwise good. He’s eager to get back to top form and share the workload with Scatterbo.
“When I play, I have to give everything. I’m not the type to go out there at half-speed,” he said, emphasizing his determination.
The Giants will miss their most seasoned wide receiver for the second week in a row, as Darius Slayton did not join the team in Denver. Following a hamstring strain, he was initially listed as questionable but was ruled out on Saturday. Defensive lineman Chauncey Golston (neck) will also be absent, along with C John Michael Schmitz Jr. (concussion), LB Demetrius Flanigan-Fowles (hamstring), and LB Swayze Bozeman (ankle).
Wide receiver Lil’Jordan Humphrey and linebacker Zaire Barnes have been promoted from the practice squad, while outside linebacker Victor Dimukeje has been placed on injured reserve, and defensive lineman Elijah Garcia was waived.
Offensive line coach Carmen Bricillo is not with the team due to personal matters. Assistant offensive line coach James Ferentz will oversee sideline duties during the game on Sunday.
In a notable statistic, Jackson Dart has become the third quarterback in history to achieve at least 50 rushing yards in each of his first three NFL starts, joining notable names like Jalen Hurts and Lamar Jackson.
On a side note, the Broncos, with 30 sacks this season, lead the NFL and are tied with the 2013 Chiefs for the most sacks in the first six games since 1990. Linebacker Nick Bonitto currently leads the league with eight sacks and has recorded at least one tackle for loss in 12 consecutive home games since Week 12 of the 2023 season. This streak ties him with Jason Pierre-Paul and TJ Watt for the most in that timeframe.
It will be a sentimental day for the Broncos and their fans as they honor the 10th anniversary of their 2016 Super Bowl victory. This occasion also includes the unveiling of a memorial pillar for the late wide receiver Demaryius Thomas at Ring of Fame Plaza.
