Devonta Freeman

Devonta Freeman (ankle) returns to Giants practice

New York Giants running back Devonta Freeman (ankle) returned to practice Thursday.

What It Means:

Freeman was a limited participant in his first practice since Week 7. Wayne Gallman gained 60 yards and scored a touchdown as the Giants' lead back Monday night in place of Freeman, but he only out-carried Alfred Morris 12-8 and out-snapped him 32-21. Dion Lewis also played 21 snaps and drew 3 targets. The Giants would likely implement a similar committee in Week 9 versus the Washington Football Team if Freeman isn't cleared.

Freeman was averaging 18.3 opportunities per game as the Giants' lead back prior to injury. He ranks 33rd out of 38 backs with at least 50 carries this season in Rushing Net Expected Points per carry. The Football Team has the sixth-best rush defense, per numberFire's advanced team rankings.