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As we continue our position-by-position reviews for the New York Giants let's look at fullback.
2013 Overview
The Giants used Henry Hynoski and John Conner at fullback, with a smattering of Bear Pascoe. Conner stabilized the play at fullback once he learned the offense. Hynoski may offer slightly more as a pass receiver, but Conner's blocking was excellent during 2013. The struggles in the run game can't be pinned on anything relating to his play.
Individuals
John Conner -- When Hynoski went down for the season the Giants brought in The Terminator, and Conner showed why he has been considered one of the league's best blocking fullbacks since breaking in with the New York Jets in 2010. His +9.0 grade from Pro Football Focus was the best on the offense, and included a +7.0 in run-blocking. Contract Status: Entering final year of two-year, $1.37-million contract.
Henry Hynoski -- Hynoski suffered a knee injury during the first day of OTAs that forced him to have surgery. He missed all of the offseason and rushed back to play in the season opener. That was probably a mistake as Hynoski was rusty and not ready, blocking poorly in the season opener. His season lasted only three games as a shoulder injury knocked him out for the season. Contract Status: Restricted Free Agent. Will the Giants bring Hynoski back next season? He was a popular player, earning the nickname 'Hynocerous' during his first two seasons, but Conner is signed through next season, meaning keeping Hynoski may not be necessary. Perhaps they offer him a chance to compete for a roster spot, but it seems unlikely any guaranteed money is coming Hynoski's way.
NFL Draft/Free Agency
There really is no need for drafting a fullback, or pursuing one in free agency. The decision is simply whether the Giants keep Conner, Hynoski or somehow find room for both. The latter seems unlikely. You have to wonder if it's bad news for Hynoski that Conner already has a contract for 2014, a very cap-friendly one of $740,000.
It's also fair to ask what impact the change in offensive schemes with Ben McAdoo taking over as offensive coordinator will have on the fullback position. The Packers, like the Giants, have used a traditional fullback. In that role, John Kuhn played 324 snaps in 2013. Hynoski (29) and Conner (245) combined to play 274 for the Giants. Kuhn played 109 snaps as a pass blocker, while Conner played only 21 in that role. So, there is a difference in how they were used.