One move cannot fix what ails the Giants’ offense. One small one was made Tuesday, as fullback Elijhaa Penny was signed off the Cardinals practice squad.
Fullbacks are not an integral part of Pat Shurmur’s offensive system, used mostly as an extra blocker in the backfield, and also as special teams contributors. Penny is a converted halfback and, at 235 pounds, is reputed to be a strong blocker.
The Giants will have a roster spot opened up when they put center Jon Halapio on injured reserve. Penny could also replace another fullback, Shane Smith, who struggled Sunday against the Cowboys.
Smith twice failed to pick up a blitz during one rough second-quarter series, paving the way for two of the six sacks on Eli Manning in the 20-13 loss, dropping the Giants to 0-2. Smith, undrafted out of San Jose State, made the team in 2017 and again this year for the new coaching regime.
Penny, 25, went undrafted out of Idaho. He played in all 16 games last season for the Cardinals and had 31 rushing attempts for 124 yards and two touchdowns. He also caught four passes for 38 yards.