Height/Weight: 5-9/205
| Birthdate: 6/15/1991
| Birthplace: Danville, VA, USA
| Team: New York
| College: Virginia Tech
| NFL Experience: 2
| Owned/Started%: 83/27 | Average Draft Position: 111.29
News: The Giants' official team website reports the starting running back job will be won in training camp and the preseason but that David Wilson is expected to earn it. "The general feeling is the job is Wilson’s to lose," wrote website writer and veteran Giants reporter Michael Eisen. The story adds Andre Brown is "in the mix" at running back.
Analysis: The speedster has immense upside in the Giants offense even though there will be weeks where Andre Brown will have more work and certainly scores more often. But if you give Wilson about 250 total touches over the season, which is feasible, then he'll have a chance at 1,200-plus total yards with his own share of scores. We consider Wilson a No. 2 Fantasy running back with upside. He's worth drafting as early as Round 4 so long as he's "in the mix" in training camp.
News: Giants running backs coach Jerald Ingram told the Newark Star-Ledger that David Wilson will get the opportunity to compete for playing time this season with Andre Brown. Ingram added Wilson has improved in his pass protection skills, something that limited his playing time last year. "He's got to learn to become more of a protector, which he has been working on," Ingram said. "We've tested him within the system, he did well a week ago, knowing what we’re doing and how to protect. Now he’s physically learned how to protect his quarterback, and he’s looking forward to the challenge, which so far I’m pretty excited about where he is right now."
Analysis: We're excited about Wilson's prospects, too. The speedster has immense upside in the Giants offense even though there will be weeks where Andre Brown has more work and certainly scores more often. But if you give Wilson about 250 total touches over the season, which is feasible, then he'll have a chance at 1,200-plus total yards with his own share of scores. We consider Wilson a No. 2 Fantasy running back with upside. He's worth drafting as early as Round 4 so long as he's popular in training camp.
News: The New York Daily News reports Giants running back David Wilson underwent minor hand surgery recently. He had a chipped bone in his hand and figured he'd take care of it now before the start of offseason workouts. He's been training at the Giants facility the past several weeks.
Analysis: Coach Tom Coughlin told CBSSports.com that he likes the idea of Wilson and Brown splitting the workload this season, perhaps in a situation like he had with Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs back in the day. Wilson has the higher upside based on his play as a rookie in 2012. Wilson finished his rookie season with 358 rushing yards, 34 receiving yards and five touchdowns. He also averaged 26.9 yards per kickoff return and returned one kickoff for a touchdown. We consider Wilson a No. 2 Fantasy running back with upside. He's worth drafting as early as Round 4 in the majority of leagues, and hopefully he won't lose many touchdowns to Brown. Still, Wilson has 1,500 total-yard potential, and we love his upside with Bradshaw gone.
News: Giants coach Tom Coughlin said in an interview with CBSSports.com at the NFL owners meeting in Phoenix on Wednesday that he likes the combination of David Wilson and Andre Brown to replace the departed Ahmad Bradshaw. "They both showed what they’re capable of doing a year ago," Coughlin said. "Before injury, Andre Brown was playing very well. And David, we used him in spots. He’s capable of more. We certainly will exploit his tremendous quickness and speed. He did catch the ball out of the backfield in the last game of the year. He’s obviously very good on kickoff returns. The thing with Andre is he’s got to come roaring back and fight his way through an entire season in the NFL and stay healthy. That’s a good complement."
Analysis: Wilson has the higher upside based on his play as a rookie in 2012. Wilson finished his rookie season with 358 rushing yards, 34 receiving yards and five touchdowns. He also averaged 26.9 yards per kickoff return and returned one kickoff for a touchdown. We consider Wilson a No. 2 Fantasy running back with upside. He's worth drafting as early as Round 4 in the majority of leagues, and hopefully he won't lose many touchdowns to Brown. Still, Wilson has 1,500 total-yard potential, and we love his upside with Bradshaw gone.
News: Giants general manager Jerry Reese wasn't lying this offseason when he said running back David Wilson could be the "lead dog" in the backfield in 2013. The move to make that happened came Wednesday. CBS Sports NFL Insider Jason La Canfora reports that the Giants on Wednesday released running back Ahmad Bradshaw in what can only be considered a salary-cap move. Bradshaw, who was coming off a surgical procedure on his right foot, was scheduled to make $3.75 million in 2013, and the Giants have a solid replacement candidate in Wilson, who was a first-round pick last year. Andre Brown will also be in the mix to share carries with Wilson.
Analysis: Wilson's Fantasy value now skyrockets with this move. He got off to a slow start as a rookie with fewer than seven carries in every game prior to Week 14. Then in Week 14 against the Saints he took off with 13 carries for 100 yards and two touchdowns, and he closed the season on a high note 75 rushing yards on 15 carries against the Eagles and a 15-yard touchdown reception. Wilson finished his rookie season with 358 rushing yards, 34 receiving yards and five touchdowns. He also averaged 26.9 yards per kickoff return and returned one kickoff for a touchdown. We consider Wilson a No. 2 Fantasy running back with upside. He's worth drafting as early as Round 3 in the majority of leagues, and hopefully he won't lose many touchdowns to Brown. Still, Wilson has 1,500 total-yard potential, and we love his upside with Bradshaw gone.
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports that Giants general manager Jerry Reese said Thursday that he thinks running back David Wilson could be the "lead dog" in a backfield in 2013. Wilson struggled as a rookie in 2012, but he finished the season with double digits in Fantasy points in two of his final four games. "It’s a two and three-back league nowadays, but do I think he can be a lead dog, I do think that," Reese said. "Because David is not a little guy, and he has incredible balance. You see guys have some big hits on him and he stays up; he’s not an easy guy to take down. So he’s much stronger than you might think just from how he looks on the field. He’s a sleek, well-chiseled athlete, but I do believe he can be the lead back."
Analysis: Wilson could be the "lead dog" if the Giants cut ties with Ahmad Bradshaw this offseason. That seems somewhat unlikely since Bradshaw is set to earn just under $4 million, but if Bradshaw is moved or isn't ready to play then Wilson's value will skyrocket. With Bradshaw, Wilson should be considered a sleeper because it's clear A) the Giants value his ability and B) Bradshaw has a lengthy injury history. We like Wilson with a mid-round pick in all leagues if Bradshaw is back with the Giants, and if Bradshaw is gone take Wilson as early as Round 3 or 4.
News: Giants rookie running back David Wilson had his first career receiving touchdown during a 42-7 rout of the Eagles Week 17. Wilson helped put the Giants up 21-0 with a 15-yard touchdown catch with 1:18 left in the first quarter. Wilson drew the start Sunday and totaled 23 rushing yards on his first two carries. He would finished with 75 rushing yards on 15 carries, while splitting time with Ahmad Bradshaw. Wilson finished his rookie season with 358 rushing yards, 34 receiving yards and five touchdowns. He also averaged 26.9 yards per kickoff return and returned one kickoff for a touchdown.
Analysis: Wilson had a very interesting rookie campaign. He came into the league with a ton of promise after being the Giants' first-round pick in April. He opened the year as Bradshaw's backup, but he fumbled on his second NFL carry and spent several weeks in coach Tom Coughlin's doghouse. Wilson only re-emerged on offense late in the season after Andre Brown suffered a season-ending leg injury and Bradshaw was banged up. But Wilson didn't let his late-season opportunity go to waste and has put himself in the mix to be a key part of the Giants' offense next season. Obviously, Wilson has a ton of untapped potential, but he might have to contend with both Bradshaw and Brown for touches next season. We like Wilson's upside, but he is looking more like a mid-round Fantasy pick next summer.
News: Giants running back David Wilson produced one of the few bright spots for the Giants in Week 16, with three rushes for 17 yards and a touchdown.
Analysis: Wilson's role shrunk a good deal with Ahmad Bradshaw active for the game -- Wilson had three carries to Bradshaw's nine -- but he still managed a nice 14-yard touchdown run in the first quarter that showcased his blazing speed. Fantasy owners will take the touchdown, but the Giants were a mess overall on Sunday, and Wilson didn't see any fourth quarter carries, with the Giants down 20 (whereas Bradshaw had five, so it wasn't like they had gone all-out with the pass). With Bradshaw back and getting the majority of carries, consider Wilson a low-end flex option, at best, for Week 17. But don't release him just yet, in case Bradshaw faces injury complications this week.
News: With Ahmad Bradshaw listed as questionable after practicing on Friday in preparation for the Ravens in Week 16, Giants rusher David Wilson could see limited snaps if Bradshaw is active on Sunday. Wilson had 44 rushing yards by the end of the second drive last week but tailed off as the game wore on, watching the passing game falter and Kregg Lumpkin snake nine carries from him. This week, it sounds as if he'll be the one snaking carries from bradshaw against a Ravens run defense that's allowed a 100-yard rusher in two straight games.
Analysis: With the game set for a 4:25 p.m. kickoff on Sunday, chances are Fantasy owners will have to go in another direction than Wilson if they can help it. If Wilson starts, he will face a Ravens defense that has been decimated by injury and has given up three touchdowns over the last two games, as well as two straight 100-yard rushers. But if Bradshaw starts, Wilson's reps will be limited. You're best assuming Bradshaw is active come Sunday and thus leaving Wilson on Fantasy benches.
News: Giants running back David Wilson, who has averaged 12.5 carries over his last two games, had a bit of a letdown game in Week 15 against the Falcons, with 55 rushing yards. Wilson had 44 rushing yards by the end of the second drive, but tailed off as the game wore on, watching the passing game falter and Kregg Lumpkin snake nine carries from him. And Wilson may not even have the chance to see double-digit carries in Week 16 against the Ravens, as Ahmad Bradshaw has vowed to play.
Analysis: Wilson's value relies almost entirely on Bradshaw's health. And even if Bradshaw is out, there's always a chance that Lumpkin works his way into the rotation. On top of all this, the game is at 4:25 p.m., meaning that decisions on whether to start Bradshaw/Wilson or a similar running back could complicate matters early on in the day, especially if Bradshaw's status isn't known until the last minute. If Wilson starts, he will face a Ravens defense that has been decimated by injury and has given up three touchdowns over the last two games, as well as two straight 100-yard rushers. Watch the Bradshaw injury status closely; if Wilson gets the start, he can be started as a low-end RB2 -- with very high upside -- in most leagues. If Bradshaw is active, though, Wilson is a deep league flex play, at best.
News: Giants running back David Wilson made his first career start Week 15 at Atlanta with Ahmad Bradshaw sidelined. Wilson averaged 4.6 yards per carry, but he didn't get many chances to make plays after the Giants fell behind 17-0 by halftime. New York would lose 34-0, while Wilson had a team-high 55 rushing yards on 12 carries. His longest rush went 25 yards. Wilson added one catch for 11 yards.
Analysis: Don't kick yourself in Fantasy if you chose to start Wilson. Had the Giants' passing game not struggle as much as they did Sunday, then Wilson could have had the chance for a monster game. He had 44 rushing yards by the end of the team's second drive. You can just tell by the score the Giants had their struggles offensively Sunday, which contributed to Wilson's modest day. It's worth mentioning Wilson shared playing time with Kregg Lumpkin Week 15. Therefore, even if Bradshaw returns Week 16 at Baltimore, then Wilson probably will be in a timeshare situation. Wilson will probably be at best a low-end Fantasy start Week 16.
News: Giants running back David Wilson is slated for one of the most anticipated encores of the season during Week 15 at Atlanta. With starting running back Ahmad Bradshaw ruled out due to lingering injuries, Wilson is expected to serve as the leading ball-carrier and could handle 20-plus carries against the Falcons' 23rd-ranked rush defense. "I think he could be," coach Tom Coughlin said Friday. "There’s no reason why he couldn’t be, but whether he will be or not ... we have a couple other guys that are going to help us in different ways. I don’t think there’s any reason why [Wilson] wouldn’t be." Opposing running backs are averaging 102.7 rushing yards, 37.9 receiving yards and 18.5 Fantasy points per week against Atlanta, the eighth-highest average in the league.
Analysis: After helping set up the Giants with solid field position throughout last week's win over New Orleans, Coughlin added that Wilson will keep his duties on kickoff returns despite his increased role at running back. Wilson became the first player in NFL history with 100-plus rushing yards and 200-plus kick return yards in a game. "We have a couple guys ready to go, but as far as I’m concerned, he’s going to stay there," he said. "How many he gets is another question. I’m not taking him out of that." While standard Fantasy leagues don't award points for return yards, Wilson could still finish as a top-10 running back in Week 15 with the ample workload. Consider him a solid starting option in most formats as running backs have also totaled 13 touchdowns (11 rushing) against Atlanta.
News: Giants coach Tom Coughlin said Wednesday running back Ahmad Bradshaw has been diagnosed with a sprained knee. Coughlin didn't speculate how long Bradshaw would be sidelined and even left the door open for him to potentially play Week 15 at Atlanta. "I'm not going to rule him out of anything," said Coughlin, citing Bradshaw's toughness. If Bradshaw, who did not practice Wednesday, is sidelined Week 15, then David Wilson will start in his absence. Running backs average 102.7 rushing yards, 37.9 receiving yards and 18.5 Fantasy points per week against Atlanta, which is the eighth-highest average in the league. Running backs have also totaled 13 touchdowns (11 rushing) against Atlanta.
Analysis: Bradshaw injured his knee Sunday against the Saints and is now dealing with another injury on top of his lingering foot problem. While Coughlin lauds Bradshaw's toughness, there is a chance he could sit out Week 15 or at worst be limited. With the way Wilson emerged Week 14, you have to think the Giants are probably going to lean on him Sunday. Coughlin said the running game wouldn't be too different if Wilson is the featured back and said the rookie is "powerful." Wilson became the first player in NFL history Week 14 with 100-plus rushing yards and 200-plus kick return yards in a game. He also had three touchdowns (two rushing, one kick return). While standard leagues don't get the return yards, Wilson still had a productive day because of his rushing yards and touchdowns. It appears as though Wilson is on track to be the featured back Sunday, so Fantasy owners might consider putting him in active lineups Week 15.
News: While the Giants are awaiting the test results on starting running back Ahmad Bradshaw's left knee, coach Tom Coughlin expressed confidence Monday in rookie running back David Wilson, who had a breakout game Week 14 vs. New Orleans. "The timing is great for David to come to the front," Coughlin said, per the New York Daily News. "And he'll hopefully provide us with that spark we need right now to go along with the rest of our players to give us an added playmaker that people are going to have to -- flat out have to -- defend."
Analysis: It's been an interesting 2012 for Wilson. He has gone from first-round pick to Coughlin's doghouse to potential star running back down the stretch for the defending champs. Wilson was expected to see a bigger role offensively Week 14 after the Giants lost Andre Brown to a broken leg, but now his role might be increased even more if Bradshaw is unable to perform at an optimal level Week 15 at Atlanta. The Giants finish the season with the Falcons, Ravens and Eagles. Running backs average 102.7 rushing yards against Atlanta, 117.7 rushing yards against Baltimore and 94.9 rushing yards per game against Philadelphia, so Fantasy owners looking for running back help down the stretch might consider adding Wilson to your roster.
News: Giants running back David Wilson piled up 327 all-purpose yards and three touchdowns to fuel New York to a 52-27 rout of New Orleans in Week 14. Wilson, whose astounding yardage total also represented a team record, became the first player in NFL history to record 200-plus kickoff return yards and at least 100 rushing yards in a game. He amassed 227 yards on four kickoff returns while adding another 100 yards on a season-high 13 carries out of the backfield. Wilson scored on rushing attempts of 6 and 52 yards, but the highlight of his performance came on a 97-yard kickoff return for a touchdown in the first quarter. "That was huge," Giants defensive back Antrel Rolle said. "That was huge. He has always been a fraction away from breaking it all year long and guys have been constantly pushing him to do it."
Analysis: The Giants didn't cash in after Wilson's returns of 58 and 52 yards, but his 20-yard gain late in the first half after a short kickoff set up a 69-yard touchdown drive. Still, Wilson was able to take advantage of starter Ahmad Bradshaw shuffling on and off the field because of an injury and nearly matched his season rushing total entering Sunday's game (111). The rookie out of Virginia Tech offers a dynamic speed option in the backfield and could earn additional carries moving forward as Bradshaw finished with just 33 yards on 11 attempts. Fantasy owners in deeper formats still competing at this point in the season should view Wilson as a solid addition as his outing could catapult him into a larger workload in New York's Week 15 showdown at Atlanta.
News: After setting some lofty goals in the preseason, Giants running back David Wilson hasn't received much space to excel during his rookie campaign and is averaging less than 2.5 yards per carry over his past three games. But that could change during a Week 14 matchup against New Orleans' woeful run defense that ranks last in the NFL (153.8 yards allowed per game). "Just watching them, you see a lot of big runs and a lot of opportunities, so the line is going to do their job and we just got to trust them," Wilson told The Star-Ledger. Analysis: Wilson will continue to serve as the backup to Ahmad Bradshaw on Sunday as the Giants look to take advantage of the Saints defense that has permitted nine touchdowns to opposing running backs this year. Despite the positive matchup, he has collected more than five carries just twice this season and has not reached the end zone since Week 5 against Cleveland. Yes, New Orleans has yielded an average of 23.1 Fantasy points per game to the position, but Wilson is still viewed as a low-end option in most formats for Week 14.
News: Giants running back David Wilson saw an increased role in Week 13 against the Redskins but did not make the most of his touches on offense. He carried the ball four times for just 9 yards in the 17-16 loss. He had a long run of 5 and averaged 2.3 yards per carry. Wilson, who finished second on New York in rushing behind Ahmad Bradshaw (103 yards), also returned four kickoffs for 83 yards in the defeat.
Analysis: Wilson moved up the depth chart with Andre Brown done for the season but continues to disappoint in his first season out of Virginia Tech. He has gained just 24 yards on 13 carries over the previous six games and does not stand to see a ton of touches down the stretch with Bradshaw looking healthy again. While the Saints have been poor against the run all season long, plan on leaving Wilson reserved in all but the deepest of Fantasy formats for Week 14.
News: Giants coach Tom Coughlin said Thursday it's time for rookie running back David Wilson to "ratchet it up" heading into Week 13 at Washington in the wake of backup running back Andre Brown's leg injury. "He's ready to go," Coughlin said of Wilson, per The Star-Ledger. "We've had people that have had to step up in the past when situations like this have arisen, and we put a lot of responsibility on their shoulders. It's time for him. He's a first-round draft choice. He's a talented kid. He got some plays the other night, which was a good thing, so we'll go from there."
Analysis: Coughlin added Thursday starter Ahmad Bradshaw is likely to see increased reps in Brown's absence, but said, "Get some snaps out of David, and perhaps someone else as well." The Giants added running backs Kregg Lumpkin and Ryan Torain to the roster this week, but Wilson should be ahead of them on the depth chart Week 13. It's going to be interesting to see how Wilson is worked into the offense. He might not exactly get the same role Brown had initially, but the Giants are obviously giving him the chance to emerge on offense. Wilson is worth adding in Fantasy, but it's probably best to leave him on benches in most formats until we see how he works into the offense.
News: Giants coach Tom Coughlin announced Monday running back Andre Brown, who suffered a broken fibula Week 12 vs. Green Bay, will be placed on the injured reserve/designated to return list. Brown is out for the rest of the regular season, but might have a chance to return if the Giants make a deep playoff run. David Wilson will now back up starter Ahmad Bradshaw and Coughlin added, "It's his time."
Analysis: Wilson is the Giants' 2012 first-round pick and began the year as Bradshaw's backup. That was before he fumbled on his second NFL carry and was then put in Coughlin's doghouse. Wilson has been saying for weeks he is ready for a bigger role on offense, but obviously the Giants didn't need him with Bradshaw and Brown active. Well, Brown is done for the year, so Wilson finally gets his chance. Fantasy owners might want to take a flier on Wilson. Brown and Bradshaw had been splitting reps the last few weeks, so Wilson has a chance to make an impact on offense if the Giants keep the same game plan moving forward.
News: Giants running back David Wilson got involved a bit in the running game but failed to make much of an impact. He took over for an injured Andre Brown and rushed for 13 yards on six carries in a 38-10 victory. He also caught one pass for five yards on the night. Wilson is expected to assume Brown's role in the running game, after he exited with a broken left fibula.
Analysis: Now that Brown is likely out for the remainder of the regular season, Wilson should be able to see some playing time sharing carries with Ahmad Bradshaw. Bradshaw has been dealing with durability issues throughout the season, which could give Wilson some opportunities to take the load down the stretch. We'll continue to monitor his role on offense moving forward. Wilson holds some upside and should be viewed as a low-end flex option in deeper Fantasy formats heading into Week 13 at Washington.
News: Giants running back David Wilson will be searching for more carries heading into Week 12 at home against the Packers. Wilson has collected just three carries in the last four games since his 35-yard performance against the Giants in Week 6. He'll face a Green bay defense that has allowed 99.5 yards per game on the ground, which is the 10th fewest allowed in the league.
Analysis: Though the plan was to get Wilson some carries his last time out against the Bengals in Week 10, the 21-year-old only received one. Bradshaw continues to have durability issues, so it seems the Giants want to start acclimating Wilson to the offense in case something long-term happens to Bradshaw. Andre Brown would still probably be the lead back if that happens, but the Giants like Wilson's long-term potential and it seems it's time for him to start getting more touches on offense. At this point, Wilson should not be relied upon as long as he sits behind Bradshaw and Brown. He has marginal value in the deepest of Fantasy formats heading into Week 12.
News: Giants coach Tom Coughlin said Monday the plan Week 10 at Cincinnati was for rookie running back David Wilson to get more touches on offense, but it didn't work out that way. New York was trounced 31-13 and Wilson had just one carry for 1 yard.
Analysis: The Giants are averaging 111.4 rushing yards per game, which puts them in the top half of the NFL. However, starting running back Ahmad Bradshaw continues to have durability issues, so it seems the Giants want to start acclimating Wilson to the offense in case something long-term happens to Bradshaw. Andre Brown would still probably be the lead back if that happens, but the Giants like Wilson's long-term potential and it seems it's time for him to start getting more touches on offense. It's still not time to rush out and add Wilson in all Fantasy formats. There are still plenty of things that have to happen for him to become a reliable Fantasy option, but it is intriguing to hear Coughlin talk about the rookie seeing increased reps.
News: Giants running back David Wilson did not touch the ball offensively for the second time in the last three games Sunday of Week 9 against Pittsburgh. Wilson did return kicks, however.
Analysis: Wilson has two rushing attempts for 1 yard in his last three games and has fallen behind Andre Brown and Ahmad Bradshaw on the depth chart. He is not a recommended Fantasy option for Week 10 at Cincinnati.
News: Giants running back David Wilson didn't touch the ball once on offense during a 27-23 win Week 7 vs. Washington. Wilson was limited to four kickoff returns for 106 yards.
Analysis: The return of Andre Brown, who sat out Week 6 with a concussion, meant Wilson slid back down the depth chart Week 7. Wilson had a chance to still be involved on offense had Ahmad Bradshaw been sidelined, but Bradshaw played Week 7 despite a foot injury, so the Giants leaned on Bradshaw and Brown to pace the rushing attack. Wilson has made great strides since losing a fumble Week 1 vs. Dallas, but it seems he won't see many reps on offense if Bradshaw and Brown are healthy. Wilson remains just a Fantasy reserve heading into Week 8 at Dallas.
News: Giants running back David Wilson appears headed for a role as the third-string running back Week 7 vs. Washington, as Andre Brown appears set to return from a concussion. Brown worked with the first-team offense Wednesday as starter Ahmad Bradshaw sat out with a foot injury. Bradshaw did return to practice Thursday and is expected to play Sunday. Running backs are averaging 74 rushing yards and 13 Fantasy points per week against the Redskins.
Analysis: Wilson was demoted to third-string running back after fumbling on his second NFL carry Week 1 against the Cowboys. However, he has seemed to work his way out of the doghouse by improving his play on offense and being a huge factor in the return game. Wilson has done well replacing Brown the last few weeks as the backup running back to Bradshaw. In his last two games, Wilson has rushed for 79 yards and one touchdown on nine carries. Still, it seems the Giants aren't ready to completely turn him loose on offense and it seems they would still lean on Brown if anything happened to Bradshaw. Wilson is mostly a Fantasy reserve in deep leagues. He does have some added value in leagues that reward for return yards.
News: Giants running back David Wilson finished with seven carries for 35 yards during New York's 26-3 victory over San Francisco in Week 6. Wilson nearly matched his season total in attempts from his previous five games combined (eight) as he registered a quality 5.0 yards per carry. In his past two outings, Wilson has gained 79 yards on nine carries despite still serving as the backup to starting running back Ahmad Bradshaw.
Analysis: Wilson has shown steady improvement in the running game for the Giants, but his most dynamic production has come on special teams. The rookie out of Virginia Tech amassed 93 yards on two kickoff returns, including a long gain of 66 yards that helped set up a New York touchdown in third quarter. After some early season fumbling issues, Wilson has been entrusted with more responsibility recently and is worth an addition again in deeper Fantasy formats heading into Week 7 against Washington.
News: Giants offensive coordinator Kevin Gilbride had an interesting comment Thursday when asked if backup running back David Wilson was ready for more work following his 40-yard touchdown run Week 5 against the Browns. "We’re trying to expand his role as fast as we can. But it’s a process," Gilbride said, per the New York Daily News.
Analysis: Wilson's story has been well-documented through the early part of the season. The 2012 first-round pick began the season as the Giants' backup running back, but after a costly fumble on his second NFL carry, he was quickly in coach Tom Coughlin's doghouse. He was then eventually passed up on the depth chart by Andre Brown. Well, Wilson played a big part Week 5 after Brown left the game with a concussion. Brown is likely to sit out Week 6, so Wilson will probably be the backup running back Sunday against the 49ers. The Giants drafted Wilson with the intention of using him on offense, as well as special teams. It finally seems he could be ready for a bigger role on offense. However, the 49ers are a tough matchup, so he is not a recommended start Week 6. But Wilson could be worth stashing in deep Fantasy formats following Gilbride's comments Thursday.
News: Giants running back David Wilson rumbled 40 yards for his first career touchdown during a 41-27 Week 5 win vs. Cleveland. Wilson capped the scoring for New York in the blowout win with the 40-yard touchdown run with 5:41 left in the fourth quarter. He finished with two carries for 44 yards.
Analysis: Wilson received a few carries Week 5 after Andre Brown left in the first quarter with a head injury. Even though Brown sat out most of the game Week 5 and Ahmad Bradshaw fumbled on his first carry, the Giants still didn't feel confident enough in giving Wilson a lot of work on offense. Bradshaw carried the ball 30 times for 200 yards and was the workhorse Sunday. Fantasy owners will want to rush to waivers to add Wilson, but while he had a nice touchdown run, it came late in the game and Brown should return to being the backup running back once healthy. Wilson is still nothing more than a low-end Fantasy reserve.
News: Giants running back David Wilson is used to waiting. The rookie has dealt with other running backs ahead of him on the depth chart in high school and then in college at Virginia Tech. Wilson is now biding his time with the Giants after being planted behind Ahmad Bradshaw and Andre Brown for carries. "Guys have been in front of me everywhere I’ve been," Wilson told the New York Post. "I'm used to having to be patient. It's not easy, but it’s not a story I haven’t read before. I left with the record in both of those places, so it paid off."
Analysis: Wilson, who was the Giants' first-round draft pick last year, entered the NFL with tremendous potential after rushing for 1,627 yards and nine touchdowns. But he lost his job as the direct backup to Bradshaw after losing a fumble on his second NFL rushing attempt in Week 1. "It’s just a matter of I guess now getting the coach’s trust back, the offensive coordinator," Brown said about Wilson. For now, though, Wilson is saddled with just eight yards on six total carries and is not expected to be a major part of New York's offense in Week 4 at Philadelphia. The Eagles are yielding just 12.0 Fantasy points per game to opposing running backs and Wilson is not viewed as a starting option. In fact, only Fantasy owners in deeper formats and keeper leagues should be hanging onto Wilson at this point.
News: Lost in the shuffle of Andre Brown and Ramses Barden’s big days Thursday against the Panthers, was the continued disappearance of David Wilson in the offense for the Giants. Wilson, the team’s first-round pick this season, managed just one rush for -2 yards, while bringing in one pass for three yards in a 36-7 win, despite the absence of regular starter Ahmad Bradshaw.
Analysis: If there was ever going to be a time for Wilson to assert himself, it would be with Bradshaw out and Brown, a journeyman, as the only other option. Instead, Wilson remained a non-factor, while Brown cemented his place as the next in line if Bradshaw’s injury proves serious. Wilson is deeply cemented as the No. 3 back in New York, and retains value only as a handcuff option in deeper Fantasy formats moving forward.
News: Giants running back David Wilson entered his rookie campaign with tremendous promise as the backup to starter Ahmad Bradshaw. Then he fumbled on his second career carry during New York's season opener and has been serving penance ever since. The first-round draft pick will look to become more involved in the team's plans during a Week 3 contest against Carolina. Wilson finished with just three carries for six yards during last Sunday's win over Tampa Bay, but remained on the bench in favor of Andre Brown when Bradshaw departed with an injury.
Analysis: If Sunday's game is any indication, Wilson apparently has a tough climb back to his spot on the depth chart. And it might not happen in time for Thursday's game against the Panthers. With Bradshaw nursing a neck injury and questionable to play, the Giants seem to be leaning toward Brown in his absence, but Wilson is expected to stay involved. "I thought Andre did a nice job," Giants coach Tom Coughlin told reporters. "He certainly was the focal point once Ahmad came out of the game. David has his plays and certainly will get some more time as well." Carolina has been blitzed by opposing running backs early this season, allowing an average of 26 Fantasy points per game. Wilson still holds strong upside, but it considered only a flex option in deeper leagues for Week 3.
News: After Ahmad Bradshaw left Sunday's game against the Bucs in the first half with a neck injury, everyone thought it was going to be rookie running back David Wilson's time to shine. Not so fast. The Giants instead went to third-string running back Andre Brown, who scored the winning touchdown and finished with a team-high 71 rushing yards in a 41-34 victory Week 2. Wilson had just three carries for 6 yards and no catches. He was targeted twice in the passing game.
Analysis: Coach Tom Coughlin said earlier in the week Wilson was only slightly out of the doghouse after a costly fumble Week 1. He proved that Week 2 after Bradshaw got hurt by leaning on Brown to pace the rushing game. But he made the right call. Brown was very sharp and could be the lead back Thursday at Carolina if Bradshaw is out. Don't be surprised if Wilson is one of the most dropped players heading into Week 3. He remains a risky Fantasy option while he remains in Coughlin's doghouse.
News: Giants coach Tom Coughlin told reporters Wednesday running back David Wilson, who had a costly fumble Week 1, is "a little bit out of the doghouse," according to The Star-Ledger. Coughlin added Wilson, who didn't see another offensive rep after fumbling on his second carry, will "certainly" be in the mix Week 2 against the Bucs. However, Coughlin didn't specify how much Wilson will be involved on offense. "He's anxious to do right," Coughlin said.
Analysis: Wilson had fumbling issues dating back to his days at Virginia Tech and the Giants knew the risk when drafting him, but they are willing to develop the first-round pick. Wilson is a home-run threat in the running game, but if he keeps making costly mistakes, then he is going to find himself standing on the sidelines more often than not. Wilson is still not a recommended Fantasy start in most formats heading into Week 2 .He will now face a Tampa Bay defense ranked first in the league against the run after holding Carolina to 10 rushing yards Week 1. However, the Bucs forced no fumbles against Carolina.
News: Giants running back David Wilson will be looking for redemption Week 2 against the Bucs after being pulled from his regular season debut Week 1 against the Cowboys following a fumble on his second carry. Wilson finished his NFL debut with two carries for 4 yards. He will now face a Tampa Bay defense ranked first in the league against the run after holding Carolina to 10 rushing yards Week 1. However, the Bucs forced no fumbles against Carolina.
Analysis: Wilson had fumbling issues dating back to his days at Virginia Tech and the Giants knew the risk when drafting him, but they are willing to develop the first-round pick. Wilson is a home-run threat in the running game, but if he keeps making costly mistakes, then he is going to find himself standing on the sidelines more often than not. Wilson is still not a recommended Fantasy start in most formats heading into Week 2.
News: Giants rookie running back David Wilson had a terrible first game in the NFL Wednesday night in the season-opening loss against Dallas. Wilson killed a good drive midway through the first quarter with his first career fumble on just his second career carry. He had to be consoled by teammates on the sidelines as he had visible tears in his eyes. He did not get another offensive touch the rest of the way for the Giants as he finished with 4 yards on two carries in the game.
Analysis: Wilson is a rookie and the Giants did not want to keep feeding him the ball following his fumble and subsequent tears on the sidelines. Wilson returned some kicks, but wasn't allowed another rushing attempt in the Week 1 game. We're sure the Giants will gain back confidence in him going forward, but Wilson's Fantasy value definitely took a hit after Wednesday's fumble. He's not going to be a recommended start for Week 2 against Tampa Bay.
News: Giants running back David Wilson doesn't plan on being a regular backup in the NFL. Instead, the rookie out of Virginia Tech has some lofty expectations for himself after being selected in the first round of last April's draft. A sampling of his expectations: "Five yards a carry, at least 10 touchdowns, at least six 100-yard games, no sacks allowed on my behalf, no fumbles and at least a play of 20 yards," he told The Star-Ledger on Saturday. "When everybody else knows, it’s just that much more that lets me know I've got to achieve it, and puts that much more pressure on me. And I kind of like that feeling."
Analysis: Wilson would certainly endear himself to Fantasy owners with that type of production as he would easily become a top commodity. But there's only one issue that could cause him to fall short in his ambitious quest: opportunity. He is slotted behind starter Ahmad Bradshaw to begin the season, although the veteran has shown injury concerns in the past, which could lead to an expanded role for the dynamic 21-year-old Wilson, who had 28 carries for 131 yards in the preseason, said he's ready for any challenge. "I know what to expect, so it’s not like butterflies. ... I think the nervousness is gone," Wilson said. Fantasy owners should take notice of Wilson and grab him in drafts toward the middle of Round 8 as he holds tremendous upside.
News: Giants rookie running back David Wilson began receiving reps with the first-team offense this week in practice, and with Ahmad Bradshaw out with a hand injury, Wilson got the start in the Giants’ third preseason game, Friday against the Bears. Wilson got just five carries in the game, but he made the most of them, finishing the game with 49 yards, while also bringing in two passes for 26 yards.
Analysis: Wilson was the only Giants running back to top 20 yards rushing in the game, as he seems to have taken hold of the No. 2 running back spot for the team. Wilson was a first-round pick in last year's NFL Draft, and he looks like an obvious handcuff option for Bradshaw, who missed four games last season with injuries. The Giants have not been afraid to share the ball in the backfield in the past, making Wilson a likely candidate for at least 10 touches per game. He is worth a late-round pick on Draft Day, with plenty of upside in rookie-only drafts.
News: The Newark Star Ledger reports that Giants rookie running back David Wilson finally practiced with the starters for the first time Monday. “It had to sink in. I got out to practice yesterday and you could tell I was a little bit jittery and nervous,” Wilson said. “Even in college when I went with Tyrod (Taylor), I wasn’t nervous. That was the first time in a long time I felt nervous was (Monday).” He alternated with Ahmad Bradshaw as the offense worked against a scout-team defense in preparation for Friday’s preseason game against the Bears. With Bradshaw’s hand injured and D.J. Ware struggling, the Giants are trying to see what they have in Wilson. “Um, I think I’ve been okay. I see a lot of room for improvement,” Wilson said. “I know I’m not playing to full potential when I’m out there.”
Analysis: Wilson is competing to be the No. 2 running back for the Giants, and he should be considered the handcuff option for Bradshaw. Wilson has plenty of upside as a first-round NFL Draft pick, and the Giants will use him to help spell Bradshaw during games. Figure on Wilson getting about 10 touches a game, and he is worth a late-round pick on Draft Day in standard leagues. In rookie-only drafts, Wilson should be taken in the middle of Round 1.
News: Giants rookie running back David Wilson played in the majority of the second half against the Jets in preseason action Saturday night. Wilson led the Giants in rushing as he finished with eight carries for 26 yards, averaging just 3.3 yards per carry in a 26-3 victory. D.J. Ware, who is battling for the No. 2 spot in the depth chart, rushed for 15 yards on 11 carries.
Analysis: While Ware struggled to get anything going with the first-team offense, Wilson played slightly better against the second stringers. He has the potential to be a quality rookie in heading into the season, but needs to prove himself first. The Giants want him to be second guy behind Bradshaw, but Ware is fighting for the role. We will keep an eye on what develops throughout preseason. Wilson should be drafted in all leagues with a late-round pick. He's also worth a first-round selection in rookie-only formats.
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports that the Giants coaches are concerned about rookie running back David Wilson’s grasp of the playbook. He could be falling behind D.J. Ware as the No. 2 rusher behind Ahmad Bradshaw.
Analysis: Wilson has the potential to be a quality rookie in 2012, but he needs to prove himself first. The Giants want him to be the No. 2 option behind Bradshaw, but Ware is fighting for the role. Keep an eye on what develops, but Wilson should be drafted in all leagues with a late-round pick. He's also worth a first-round selection in rookie-only formats.
News: Giants rookie running back David Wilson played in the majority of the second half against the Jaguars in preseason action. Wilson also participated in special teams and fielded kickoffs and punts. He rushed for 43 yards on seven carries, averaging a hefty 6.1 yards per carry. His longest gain of the night came when he broke for a 26-yard run up the middle in the third quarter. He was also involved in the passing game and caught two passes for 22 yards. Wilson combined for 145 all-purpose yards during his first live action.
Analysis: Wilson could be in line for sufficient playing time with the Giants during his first NFL season as Bradshaw was hobbled by a foot injury that limited him to 12 games last year. In fact, he has only played all 16 games once in his first five seasons and Wilson could be a key part of the backfield rotation in order to keep him fresh. Fantasy owners should monitor Wilson's progression during preseason games and invest in a late-round pick on the highly touted rookie in the majority of upcoming drafts. He's also worth a first-round selection in rookie-only formats.
News: In a relatively surprising move, Giants rookie David Wilson was listed on the team's first preseason depth chart as the No. 2 running back directly behind starter Ahmad Bradshaw, the New York Daily News reports. Wilson, the Giants' first-round selection out of Virginia Tech, had been slotted as the fifth running back at the beginning of training camp. He was followed on the list by D.J. Ware and Da'Rel Scott.
Analysis: Wilson could be in line for sufficient playing time with the Giants during his first NFL season as Bradshaw was hobbled by a foot injury that limited him to 12 games last year. In fact, he has only played all 16 games once in his first five seasons and Wilson could be a key part of the backfield rotation in order to keep him fresh. Fantasy owners should monitor Wilson's progression during preseason games and invest in a late-round pick on the highly touted rookie in the majority of upcoming drafts. He's also worth a first-round selection in rookie-only formats.
News: The New York Post reports that Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw likes what he sees from rookie David Wilson. “He’s doing great," Bradshaw said. “He’s still young. He kind of does his own thing: juking and doing a lot of different things, putting a lot of torque on his ankles and knees. So we’re trying to teach him how to be a professional and hold back on some of those things. I’m just trying to bring him along with the information we learn and just different things how we learned it as rookies and coming up as young guys."
Analysis: Wilson is competing to be the No. 2 running back for the Giants, and he should be considered the handcuff option for Bradshaw. Wilson has plenty of upside as a first-round NFL Draft pick, and the Giants will use him to help spell Bradshaw during games. Figure on Wilson getting about 10 touches a game, and he is worth a late-round pick on Draft Day in standard leagues. In rookie-only drafts, Wilson should be taken in the middle of Round 1.
News: ESPN speculates that Giants running back D.J. Ware has the edge on rookie David Wilson for the race to back up and help Ahmad Bradshaw this season. Wilson's speed and hands have been on display in offseason workouts but his pass protection and knowledge of the offense remain question marks. Ware on the other hand has experience in the Giants' system and has the trust of his coaches. Wilson told the Newark Star-Ledger that for now there's no particular order to the Giants' running back reps and that he's only concerned with learning the playbook.
Analysis: We could see Ware earn the spot at the beginning of the year and keep it warm until Wilson is ready for more responsibilities. But Wilson's speed and hands should land him playing time sooner than later. It just might not be plentiful at first. But unless (or until) Bradshaw misses significant playing time, Wilson isn't expected to post enough stats to warrant Fantasy use. We'd spend a late pick on him in seasonal drafts, a middle- to late-round pick in dynasty/keeper leagues and a Top 20 pick in rookie-only formats.
News: The New York Daily News reports that Giants offensive coordinator Kevin Gilbride had some high praise for rookie running back David Wilson. "I don’t know if we’ve had a guy as explosive, regardless of the position, here," Wilson said. "I don’t know if we’ve seen quite the darting, the explosiveness in short bursts that we’ve seen with him. That’s kind of exciting to see. He’s got some excitement that I don’t know if we’ve had that kind of guy. In this guy you’ve got the kind of explosion that I’m not sure how guys in the league have." But, Gilbride cautioned, there's still plenty of work for Wilson to do before training camp starts. "There’s a lot of learning going on, and you can see the smoke coming out of his ears and his eyes going around in different directions," Gilbride said. "So there’s a long way to go before you can tap into it. But it looks like there’s something that he can give you. He’s got some excitement that I don’t know if we’ve had that kind of guy."
Analysis: Wilson should contribute right away on special teams and offer a change-of-pace option to the ground game behind starter Ahmad Bradshaw. But unless (or until) Bradshaw misses significant playing time, Wilson isn't expected to post enough stats to warrant Fantasy use. We'd spend a late pick on him in seasonal drafts, a middle- to late-round pick in dynasty/keeper leagues and a Top 20 pick in rookie-only formats.
News: Virginia Tech running back David Wilson was the first-round pick of the Giants, bolstering their running back corps. Wilson offers plenty of variety after rushing for 1.627 yards and nine touchdowns last season with the Hokies, adding 21 grabs for 126 yards and another score. He's also worked returning kickoffs, scoring on two of his 22 returns in 2010 (none on 20 returns in 2011). Wilson collected 4,349 all-purpose yards and scored 25 touchdowns in only three seasons at Virginia Tech.
Analysis: Wilson should contribute right away on special teams and offer a change-of-pace option to the ground game behind starter Ahmad Bradshaw. But unless (or until) Bradshaw misses significant playing time, Wilson isn't expected to post enough stats to warrant Fantasy use. We'd spend a late pick on him in seasonal drafts, a middle- to late-round pick in dynasty/keeper leagues and a Top 20 pick in rookie-only formats.
News: Virginia Tech running back David Wilson is considered by many to be a Top 5 running back in the 2012 NFL Draft. Wilson has visited with many teams including the Browns, Buccaneers and 49ers and said he's willing to offer his "variety" to any interested club. Wilson offers plenty of variety after rushing for 1.627 yards and nine touchdowns last season with the Hokies, adding 21 grabs for 126 yards and another score. He's also worked returning kickoffs, scoring on two of his 22 returns in 2010 (none on 20 returns in 2011). Wilson collected 4,349 all-purpose yards and scored 25 touchdowns in only three seasons at Virginia Tech.
Analysis: The gregarious Wilson plays with lots of energy but not a ton of strength. He's at his best running to the outside and accelerating in open space or along the sideline, not between the tackles. And it's his speed that will make him alluring to prospective teams and Fantasy owners. He's also a capable receiver but not a great pass blocker, which could cost him some playing time. We expect Wilson to begin his career as a part-time back and kick returner with the idea that once he masters some of the skills he can develop into a starter. We'd spend a late pick on him in seasonal drafts, a middle- to late-round pick in dynasty/keeper leagues and a Top 20 pick in rookie-only formats.
