Giants’ Devonta Freeman: “I know I still have a lot in the tank”

For running back Devonta Freeman, the New York Giants provided “a great opportunity at the right time.”

So, in the wake of the season-ending injury to Saquon Barkley, the 28-year-old signed with the Giants, practiced Wednesday for the first time and will now try to help the Giants piece together a rushing attack and play good offensive football without their best player.

“I just think a lot of situations didn’t fit me and fit what I want to do and some of my personal goals. I know I still have a lot in the tank and I just want to go out and play football and have fun,” Freeman said on Thursday.

Freeman signed an incentive-laden contract that could be worth as much as $3 million depending on how well he performs and how much he plays.

Freeman didn’t bite when asked what his personal goals were.

“What do I want to get accomplished? One game at a time, win. Take it one game at a time and try to win,” Freeman said. “This is a long season, it’s a tough season. Try to stay healthy and try to win one game at a time. When it’s all said and done, hopefully win the big game, but I don’t want to look too far down the road. Main thing is just one play at a time, one quarter at a time, one game at a time, that’s what I’m most looking forward to.”

Freeman will join Dion Lewis, Wayne Gallman and fullback Elijhaa Penny in the Giants’ backfield.

“There’s a lot of ball left. There are a lot of games to be played,” Freeman said. “I’m fortunate and blessed to be on this team. It’s a young team. I’m happy about the opportunity. I just think it’s a lot of growth for this team, for myself. I’m just here to help contribute as much as I can and be a part of this team. Just come in and do what I can do, do my best, and just help out these guys as much as I can.”

Freeman spent six seasons with the Atlanta Falcons before not being re-signed in the offseason.

“I understand the game and I understand the business. As always, business decisions have to be made,” Freeman said.” I just do my part and come to work every single day and leave my best out there on the practice field, on the game field. Whatever I’m asked to do, I just try to take advantage of my opportunity, if that’s catching or running or blocking. I just want to contribute as much as I can.”