With the future of the New York Giants running back position growing cloudier seemingly by the month, let's take a look at running back Martell Mallett. Out of Arkansas-Pine Bluff, Mallett went undrafted in 2009 and decided to head north to the BC Lions of the Canadian Football League. After rushing for 1,240 yards (fourth in the league) and eight touchdowns - as well as a franchise record 213 yards against the Montreal Alouettes Sept. 4, 2009 - Mallett was named the 2009 Most Outstanding Rookie.
The following January, Mallett was signed by the Philadelphia Eagles, where he lasted until late July. The Eagles resigned him in August, waived him in September but signed him to the practice squad two days later. Later that month, the Eagles released Mallett and he ended up on the Cleveland Browns' practice squad. In November, Mallett was released. After a brief second stint on the Eagles' practice squad, the Giants offered Mallett a reserve/future contract early last month.
Now listed at 6-foot, 207 pounds, Mallett is undoubtedly an intriguing prospect. His size makes Mallett a potentially impressive power back, but he's also shown glimpses of speed. Additionally, Mallett is known for his pass-catching ability, something that surely led to him having two stints with the Eagles, whose running backs always need to be able to catch the ball. Again, given the uncertainty of the Giants' running back position, it's hard to argue Mallett's chances for sticking around.