The New York Giants must improve the rushing attack. Which free agent running backs could help Jerry Reese improve the inconsistent offense?

The New York Giants are in desperate need of an improvement at running back. Some believe the solution could be found internally, but there’s a growing belief that New York would have its best luck solidifying the position by adding a player via free agency.

Having acknowledged the most ideal options to be found in the 2017 NFL Draft, the next logical question pertains to free agency.

The Giants have an intriguing long-term option at running back in 2016 fifth-round draft pick Paul Perkins. Perkins finished his rookie season with 456 rushing yards and 162 receiving yards, including the 102 rushing yards he amassed in Week 17.

Following the decision to part ways with veteran Rashad Jennings, Perkins will be tasked with filling a significantly larger role in 2017.

Though Perkins has created optimism, free agency will likely be utilized to improve at the position. New York may opt to find a full-time starter to help groom Perkins for the future, or it could decide to complement him with a veteran who can step up where he falls short.

The question is: who are the Top 5 running backs on the open market and should the New York Giants make a run at them?

Note: Le’Veon Bell was excluded from this list due to the league-wide belief that the Pittsburgh Steelers will slap him with the franchise tag.