- Gary Brightwell
- #
- Team --
- Pos RB
- Status AActive
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Cut from practice squad again
The Browns cut Brightwell from the practice squad Tuesday.
Analysis: Brightwell has bounced on and off Cleveland's practice squad with regularity this season. He's also suited up for two games with the team, contributing exclusively on special-teams in both contests. Brightwell may realistically be a candidate to resurface on the practice squad again in the future.
Published: Tue, Oct 29 at 11:49am by Rotowire.com
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Re-signed to practice squad
The Browns re-signed Brightwell to the practice squad Tuesday.
Analysis: Brightwell takes the spot of Sebastian Gutierrez, whom Cleveland cut from the practice squad in a corresponding move. A fourth-year pro, Brightwell played a role on special teams for the Browns in Week 3 and Week 4.
Published: Tue, Oct 22 at 11:49am by Rotowire.com
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Let go from practice squad
The Browns cut Brightwell from the practice squad Tuesday.
Analysis: Brightwell's departure from the practice squad opens up a spot for wide receiver James Proche. Brightwell was signed to the Browns' active roster Sept. 21 to provide backfield depth behind Jerome Ford and D'Onta Foreman. However, Brightwell was limited to a special teams role in Week 3 and 4, and he was let go from the 53-man roster Oct. 1. The 2021 sixth-round pick will explore his options and attempt to catch on with a team in need of backfield depth and special teams experience.
Published: Tue, Oct 15 at 2:11pm by Rotowire.com
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Signed to practice squad
The Browns signed Brightwell to the practice squad Thursday.
Analysis: Brightwell cut Brightwell from the active roster Wednesday, but he's quickly resurfaced with the organization. The special-teams ace could be a candidate for elevation Sunday against the Commanders.
Published: Thu, Oct 3 at 8:43am by Rotowire.com
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Time up in Cleveland
The Browns cut Brightwell from the 53-man roster Tuesday, Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram reports.
Analysis: Brightwell spent the last two games contributing exclusively on special teams for Cleveland. He returned two kickoffs for 36 yards during the team's 20-16 loss to the Raiders on Sunday. Now, Brightwell will hope to either resurface on the Browns' practice squad or secure a depth role elsewhere in the league.
Published: Tue, Oct 1 at 12:04pm by Rotowire.com
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Continues special teams role
Brightwell returned two kickoffs for 36 yards in Sunday's 20-16 loss to the Raiders in Week 4.
Analysis: Brightwell was active for a second straight game but has not played on offense yet. He was the main kick returner for the Giants in 2022 and could fill that role with the Browns until injured running backs Nick Chubb (knee) or Nyheim Hines (knee) return and need his roster spot.
Published: Mon, Sep 30 at 6:14am by Rotowire.com
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Signed to active roster
The Browns signed Brightwell from their practice squad to the active roster Saturday, Kelsey Russo of the Browns' official site reports.
Analysis: With Nick Chubb (knee) and Nyheim Hines (knee) starting the regular season on injured reserve and Pierre Strong (hamstring) ruled out for Sunday's game against the Giants, the Browns have signed Brightwell to the active roster. Brightwell could get some looks on kickoff returns Sunday while serving as the No. 3 running back behind Jerome Ford and D'Onta Foreman. Brightwell appeared in seven regular-season games for the Giants in 2023, during which he turned nine carries into 19 yards and added…read more
Published: Sat, Sep 21 at 11:18am by Rotowire.com
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Gets chance with Cleveland
Brightwell signed with the Browns' practice squad Thursday, Chris Easterling of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.
Analysis: Brightwell spent camp with the Jaguars after losing his spot with the Giants, but he was unable to make the team's final roster. He'll now get a chance to work his way up to Cleveland's 53-man roster, which is currently dealing with multiple injuries at running back.
Published: Thu, Aug 29 at 1:06pm by Rotowire.com
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Comes up short
Brightwell was waived by the Jaguars on Tuesday.
Analysis: Brightwell had his time with the Giants end due to a hamstring injury in June but eventually found his way to Jacksonville in early August. However, the Arizona product was unable to force his way up the team's positional depth charts and secure a spot on their final 53-man roster.
Published: Tue, Aug 27 at 12:14pm by Rotowire.com
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Headed to Duval
The Jaguars signed Brightwell to a contract Saturday.
Analysis: Brightwell appeared in seven regular-season games with the Giants in 2023, registering 66 yards from scrimmage on 14 touches while playing 39 snaps on offense and 99 on special teams. He sustained a hamstring injury in Week 7 against the Commanders and ended the season on IR. He reached an injury settlement with the Giants in June, and he'll now compete for a depth running back spot on the Jaguars behind Travis Etienne and Tank Bigsby.
Published: Sat, Aug 3 at 2:46pm by Rotowire.com
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Hosted for tryout by New England
Brightwell (hamstring) visited the Patriots for a tryout Monday, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.
Analysis: Brightwell reached an injury settlement with the Giants back in June, and he now looks fully recovered from his hamstring injury. The 2021 sixth-round pick could be a fit for New England, given his ability to shore up backfield depth while also contributing on special teams.
Published: Mon, Jul 22 at 3:28pm by Rotowire.com
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Reaches injury settlement
Brightwell (hamstring) was waived from injured reserve by the Giants with an injury settlement Monday, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.
Analysis: The running back is free to search for another opportunity in 2024 now that he's reached the settlement. In 2023 with the Giants, Brightwell carried the ball nine times for 19 yards and caught five passes for 47 yards. The 2021 sixth-round pick's best season came in 2022, when he ran for 141 yards and a score.
Published: Mon, Jun 10 at 4:26pm by Rotowire.com
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Reverts to IR
Brightwell (hamstring) has reverted to the Giants' injured reserve, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.
Analysis: Brightwell's 2023 campaign ended on the IR, and this season has now begun the same way. The nature of his hamstring injury is unknown at this time, so it is still possible that both he and the Giants will come to terms on an injury settlement down the road. The running back has tallied 164 yards and one touchdown on the ground across 37 games in his career to go along with 92 yards on 11 receptions for 92 yards.
Published: Sat, Jun 1 at 7:25am by Rotowire.com
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Waived by Giants
Brightwell (hamstring) was waived by the Giants with an injury designation Thursday, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
Analysis: Brightwell ended the 2023 season on injured reserve with a hamstring injury, but it's unclear if that's the issue he's currently dealing with. He has rushed 41 times for 164 yards and a touchdown and has caught 11 passes for 92 yards through 37 games with the Giants. If the running back clears waivers, he'll revert to IR, where he'd be slated to remain unless he reaches an injury settlement.
Published: Thu, May 30 at 7:48am by Rotowire.com
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Ends season on IR
Brightwell (hamstring) played in seven games during the regular season, rushing nine times for 19 yards and adding five catches on seven targets for 47 yards.
Analysis: Most of Brightwell's work came on special teams, though he did get four carries in both Week 3 and Week 4 while Saquon Barkley was out with an injury. Brightwell didn't do much with those opportunities, and he had only one carry over his other five contests combined. The third-year pro's campaign came to a halt after he suffered an ankle injury that eventually landed him on IR, and though he was designated to return ahead of Week 16, New York didn't end up activating him. The Giants'…read more
Published: Wed, Jan 10 at 9:41pm by Rotowire.com
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Returns to practice
Brightwell (hamstring) practiced in full Thursday, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
Analysis: Brightwell was designated to return from IR on Wednesday, and Thursday marked his first full practice with the team since suffering a hamstring injury Week 7 against the Commanders. The 24-year-old could return Monday against the Eagles, but considering the amount of time the Arizona product has missed, the Giants may wait until Week 17 against the Rams to bring Brightwell back into the fold.
Published: Thu, Dec 21 at 1:38pm by Rotowire.com
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Practice window opens Wednesday
Giants head coach Brian Daboll said Wednesday that Brightwell (hamstring) has been designated for return from injured reseve, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Brightwell has been on IR since Week 7, but he'll return to practice Wednesday and can be added back to the 53-man roster at any point within the next 21 days. The running back carried nine times for 19 yards and recorded five receptions for 47 yards on seven targets in seven appearances this season prior to landing on IR.
Published: Wed, Dec 20 at 9:32am by Rotowire.com
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Headed to IR
The Giants placed Brightwell (hamstring) on injured reserve Saturday, Dan Duggan of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Brightwell sustained a hamstring injury in Week 7 against the Commanders. He'll now have to sit out for at least the next four games and will be eligible to return against the Patriots on Nov. 26. Jashaun Corbin and Deon Jackson are set to take on backfield depth roles behind Saquon Barkley and Matt Breida.
Published: Sat, Oct 28 at 4:01pm by Rotowire.com
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Won't play Week 8
Brightwell (hamstring) has been ruled out for Sunday's contest against against the Jets, Ralph Vacchiano of Fox Sports reports.
Analysis: Brightwell didn't practice at all during Week 8 prep, and he's thus been ruled out for Sunday's matchup. The third-year running back has been used mostly on special teams this season, and he hasn't logged an offensive snap since Week 4. However, with rookie RB Eric Gray moved to IR on Tuesday, the Giants recently signed both Jashaun Corbin and Deon Jackson to serve as depth behind Saquon Barkley and Matt Breida out of the backfield.
Published: Fri, Oct 27 at 7:30pm by Rotowire.com
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Clear to play vs. Jets
Brightwell (hamstring) does not carry an injury designation into Sunday's game versus the Jets, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Brightwell is in line to return from a three-game absence in Week 8. With Saquon Barkley and Matt Breida both also healthy headed into Sunday's game, Brightwell figures to settle into a reserve role.
Published: Fri, Oct 27 at 12:56pm by Rotowire.com
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Non-participant at practice
Brightwell (hamstring) did not participate at practice Wednesday, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
Analysis: Brightwell was forced out of Sunday's game versus Washington with a hamstring injury, which is now also keeping him out of practice to start the week. Unless he can come back to practice Thursday or Friday, he'll probably have to sit out Week 8 versus the Jets.
Published: Wed, Oct 25 at 2:02pm by Rotowire.com
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Out for game
Brightwell (hamstring) will not return to Sunday's game against the Commanders, Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News reports.
Analysis: Brightwell did not record any stats before exiting, so it's unclear when he sustained the injury. Saquon Barkley and Matt Breida are New York's only remaining running backs on the active roster. Brightwell has nine carries for 19 yards in 2023.
Published: Sun, Oct 22 at 11:26am by Rotowire.com
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Suiting up Sunday night
Brightwell (ankle) is active for Sunday's game against Buffalo.
Analysis: Brightwell came into the weekend questionable with an ankle injury, but he will be able to take the field against Buffalo. Saquon Barkley (ankle) is also active for the contest, so Brightwell is likely to see his already small role on offense further reduced. Brightwell worked exclusively on special teams last week against Miami, and that may be the case again Sunday night.
Published: Sun, Oct 15 at 4:16pm by Rotowire.com
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Questionable for Sunday at Bills
Brightwell (ankle) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game at Buffalo, Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News reports.
Analysis: After sitting out practice Thursday, Brightwell was a limited participant Friday, giving himself at least a chance to play in Week 6. With Saquon Barkley (ankle) also listed as questionable, the Giants go into the weekend with Matt Breida and Eric Gray as their only certainties at running back.
Published: Fri, Oct 13 at 1:15pm by Rotowire.com
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Now sitting out of practice
Brightwell (ankle) did not participate at practice Thursday, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
Analysis: Brightwell began the week with a limited practice Wednesday, but his absence Thursday puts his availability for Week 6 in doubt. If he can't practice in at least some capacity Friday, he'll probably be forced to sit out Sunday at Buffalo.
Published: Thu, Oct 12 at 1:11pm by Rotowire.com
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Limited practice to start week
Brightwell (ankle) was a limited participant at practice Wednesday, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
Analysis: Brightwell was also limited at practice last week before ultimately suiting up to play in Week 5 at Miami, so that he wasn't a full go Wednesday is likely just maintenance related. He'll have two more chances to log a full practice Thursday and Friday before Sunday's game at Buffalo.
Published: Wed, Oct 11 at 1:35pm by Rotowire.com
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Good to go at Miami
Brightwell (ankle) does not carry an injury designation ahead of Sunday's game at the Dolphins, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
Analysis: Brightwell was hobbled at practice during the week, but the ankle issue he's dealing with won't be severe enough to keep him out in Week 5. His projected role depends almost squarely on the availability of Saquon Barkley, who is listed as questionable with an ankle injury of his own.
Published: Fri, Oct 6 at 12:12pm by Rotowire.com
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Limited by ankle again Thursday
Brightwell (ankle) was a limited participant at practice Thursday, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: For the second straight day, Brightwell was unable to manage a full practice due to an ankle issue, the details of which still aren't totally clear at this point. With Saquon Barkley still working through an ankle injury of his own, the Giants' injury report Friday will be pivotal in forecasting who will be able to handle carries for them Sunday at Miami.
Published: Thu, Oct 5 at 1:14pm by Rotowire.com
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Officially limited in pratice
Brightwell was limited in practice Wednesday due to an ankle injury, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
Analysis: It was previously reported Wednesday by Bob Brookover of NJ.com that Brightwell was to be limited at practice Wednesday but without a specified reason. Salomone's report confirms those expectations were correct while also shedding some light on the cause, which is due to an ankle injury. Brightwell has seen his role grow over the last two weeks while Saquon Barkley recovers from a sprained ankle. If Barkley remains out and Brightwell recovers in time, he should see a continuance of that role…read more
Published: Wed, Oct 4 at 1:15pm by Rotowire.com
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Limited by injury
Brightwell (undisclosed) will be limited in practice Wednesday, Bob Brookover of NJ.com reports.
Analysis: It's not clear what the injury Brightwell is dealing with is, but the Arizona product will be unable to participate in full to the start the week. He'll try to ramp up his activity ahead of Sunday's game against Miami on Thursday or Friday.
Published: Wed, Oct 4 at 11:36am by Rotowire.com
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Gets five touches Monday
Brightwell carried four times for nine yards and caught one of two targets for 10 yards in a Week 4 loss to Seattle on Monday.
Analysis: For the second straight week, Brightwell was the only Giants running back aside from Matt Breida to garner any carries in the absence of Saquon Barkley (ankle), though it was quarterback Daniel Jones who led the team with 66 rushing yards. Brightwell didn't do much with his opportunities on the ground, with his longest rush going for just four yards. Though the 24-year-old has seen more work with Barkley out of action, he's managed just 14 yards on eight carries over the past two weeks while…read more
Published: Mon, Oct 2 at 11:17pm by Rotowire.com
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Sees increased workload Thursday
Brightwell rushed four times for five yards and caught two of three targets for 31 yards in Thursday's Week 3 loss to San Francisco.
Analysis: It was expected that Brightwell would see more snaps with Saquon Barkley out with an ankle injury, though Matt Breida saw the bulk of New York's backfield work. Brightwell ended up logging nine offensive snaps, making a minimal impact on the ground with a long gain of just two yards. He was more effective as a pass catcher, as his pair of receptions went for 18 and 13 yards, respectively. Breida will likely continue to see the majority of snaps at running back for as long as Barkley remains…read more
Published: Fri, Sep 22 at 3:25pm by Rotowire.com
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Role could grow with Barkley out
Brightwell is expected to get some carries Thursday against the 49ers while working behind Matt Breida with top running back Saquon Barkley (ankle) ruled out for the contest, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Breida is expected to lead New York's backfield, but Brightwell is next in line for carries, while 2023 fifth-round pick Eric Gray could mix in sporadically as both a runner and a pass catcher. Since the Giants selected him in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, Brightwell has carried 33 times for 150 yards (4.5 average) and one touchdown to go with eight catches for 51 yards over 32 games.
Published: Wed, Sep 20 at 12:33pm by Rotowire.com
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Sees garbage-time duty Week 1
Brightwell carried one time for five yards and caught both of his targets for six yards in Sunday's blowout loss to the Cowboys.
Analysis: Brightwell didn't get a touch until midway through the fourth quarter, when the Giants were down 40-0. He logged a five-yard rush on his lone carry and added a pair of meaningless receptions with the clock ticking down for the final two plays of the game. Brightwell ended up on the field for 11 of New York's 70 offensive snaps overall, and he could be hard-pressed to see even that much action most weeks as he works behind Saquon Barkley and Matt Breida.
Published: Mon, Sep 11 at 4:30pm by Rotowire.com
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Ready to roll Sunday
Brightwell (knee) does not carry an injury designation Friday ahead of Sunday's game versus Dallas, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
Analysis: Despite having been sidelined since mid-August with a knee issue, Brightwell will be healthy enough to play in Week 1 versus the Cowboys. He probably won't get many touches as long as Saquon Barkley and Matt Breida remain healthy, though.
Published: Fri, Sep 8 at 11:42am by Rotowire.com
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Still limited at practice Thursday
Brightwell (knee) was a limited participant at practice Thursday ahead of Sunday's game versus Dallas, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
Analysis: Brightwell has been sidelined since the middle of August with a knee issue, and his status for the Giants' Week 1 game is now in true doubt. If he proves unable to play come Sunday, fifth-round rookie Eric Gray would be a likely candidate to replace him as the primary kick returner.
Published: Thu, Sep 7 at 10:15am by Rotowire.com
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Gets in limited practice
Brightwell (knee) was a limited participant in practice Wednesday.
Analysis: Brightwell has been sidelined since the middle of August but was able to make the 53-man roster thanks in large part to his experience on special teams as the lead kick returner. Getting in a limited session in practice should improve Brightwell's chances of suiting up Week 1 against the Cowboys this Sunday.
Published: Wed, Sep 6 at 3:06pm by Rotowire.com
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Still dealing with injury
Brightwell (undisclosed) was not a full participant at practice Thursday, Michael Eisen of the Giants' official site reports.
Analysis: Brightwell stands to contribute mostly on special teams when healthy, as he currently profiles as New York's top kick returner. However, he could occasionally spell Saquon Barkley and Matt Breida as a depth option on offense, per John Fennelley of USA Today.
Published: Fri, Sep 1 at 8:36am by Rotowire.com
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Still dealing with injury
Brightwell (undisclosed) is still not fully healed as of Sunday, Dan Duggan of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Brightwell has been sidelined by the injury for more than a week, and his inability to get back on the field will likely hamper his chances to make the team's 53-man roster as the No. 3 running back, according to Duggan.
Published: Sun, Aug 27 at 1:33pm by Rotowire.com
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Not playing Friday
Brightwell is not in uniform for Friday's exhibition matchup with the Panthers due to an undisclosed issue, Charlotte Carroll of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Brightwell is competing with Jashaun Corbin, James Robinson and Eric Gray for the team's No. 3 running back role behind Saquon Barkley and Matt Breida. It is unclear what specific issue he is dealing with, but the Giants have one more preseason game left, so he will have more time to make an impression going forward.
Published: Fri, Aug 18 at 4:05pm by Rotowire.com
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Could be challenged by rookie
Brightwell and rookie Eric Gray figure to compete for the No. 3 running back role behind Saquon Barkley and Matt Breida, Charlotte Carroll of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Barkley has yet to sign his franchise tag or work out a contract extension with the organization, but he figures to be a workhorse again during the upcoming campaign. Breida was a good fit as the No. 2 ball-carrier last season and was brought back for 2023 presumably to fill the same role, leaving Brightwell and Gray to compete for the limited snaps that remain. Brightwell averaged a healthy 4.5 yards per carry last year and also worked as the team's lead kickoff returner, but Carroll notes…read more
Published: Thu, May 25 at 10:12pm by Rotowire.com
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Leading rusher in Week 18
Brightwell carried the ball 11 times for 60 yards and caught one of three targets for three yards in Sunday's 22-16 loss to the Eagles.
Analysis: With Saquon Barkley inactive in a relatively meaningless game for the Giants, Brightwell wound up being the team's leading rusher. The 60 yards were also a new career high for the 2021 sixth-round pick, and if somehow the team doesn't re-sign Barkley in the offseason or bring in a high-profile replacement, Brightwell could have a much more significant role in 2023.
Published: Sun, Jan 8 at 7:08pm by Rotowire.com
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Sees just one snap Week 16
Brightwell lost one yard on his only carry and returned one kickoff for 26 yards in a loss to the Vikings on Saturday.
Analysis: After failing to record any offensive snaps against Washington in Week 15, Brightwell got one snap Saturday, but he lost a yard on a first-down carry in the first quarter. His role as the team's kick returner boosts his importance to New York, but Brightwell shouldn't be expected to be a fantasy producer while lead back Saquon Barkley (63 snaps Saturday) and No. 2 ball carrier Matt Breida (11 snaps) are healthy.
Published: Mon, Dec 26 at 6:03am by Rotowire.com
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Loses role on offense
Brightwell did not log any offensive snaps in New York's Week 15 win over the Commanders. He played on 15 special-teams snaps and tallied 21 yards on his lone kickoff return.
Analysis: With Saquon Barkley limited last week against the Eagles, Brightwell saw a season-high 21 offensive snaps and tallied 41 total yards. However, Barkley was back at full strength Sunday, pushing Brightwell out of the offense entirely. Matt Breida looks to have a secure hold on the minimal backup touches behind Barkley, so Brightwell could be in line for more games like this one during which he works exclusively as a special teamer.
Published: Mon, Dec 19 at 12:25am by Rotowire.com
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Gets increased work in Week 14 loss
Brightwell gained 23 yards on five carries and secured two of three targets for 18 yards in a loss to Philadelphia in Week 14. He added three kick returns for 58 yards.
Analysis: Brightwell didn't log an offensive snap against Washington in Week 13, but he tallied 21 against the Eagles on Sunday. That was partly due to Saquon Barkley's limitations due to a neck injury and partly due to the Giants getting routed in the contest. It was nonetheless revealing that Brightwell logged just two fewer snaps than presumed No. 2 back Matt Breida, and Brightwell was the far more productive player with 41 total yards to Breida's 15. Neither backup ball carrier has fantasy value as…read more
Published: Mon, Dec 12 at 3:13pm by Rotowire.com
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Limited to return duties
Brightwell did not log any offensive snaps in Sunday's 20-20 tie with Washington, but he gained 44 yards on two kick returns.
Analysis: Brightwell entered the weekend with a questionable tag due to an illness. He was ultimately able to play against Washington but did not garner any snaps on offense for the first time since Week 10. Brightwell had seen his most action of the campaign on Thanksgiving, totaling 31 yards on five carries and 18 yards on two catches against Dallas. He's yet to log more than 10 offensive snaps in any game this season, and his value to the Giants is primarily as a kick returner.
Published: Mon, Dec 5 at 10:50pm by Rotowire.com
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Will play Sunday
Brightwell (illness) is active Sunday against the Commanders.
Analysis: Brightwell closed out the week with back-to-back limited practices, and he's good to go Week 13 against Washington. He saw an increased role in Week 12's loss to the Cowboys, which may be worth monitoring to see if it carries over to today.
Published: Sun, Dec 4 at 9:15am by Rotowire.com
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Deemed questionable for Sunday
Brightwell (illness) is questionable for Sunday's matchup against Washington, Adam Caplan of SiriusXM NFL Radio reports.
Analysis: Brightwell didn't practice Wednesday due to an illness, but he's logged back-to-back limited sessions to end Week 13 prep and has a chance to suit up Sunday. The backup running back saw a career-high seven touches during the Giants' Thanksgiving Day loss to Dallas, but if Brightwell is deemed available against Washington, it's unclear if he'll match that type of usage while operating behind Saquon Barkley and Matt Breida.
Published: Fri, Dec 2 at 11:58am by Rotowire.com
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Bumps up practice activity Thursday
Brightwell (illness) was listed as a limited participant on Thursday's estimated injury report, per Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site.
Analysis: Brightwell missed practice Wednesday after he reportedly came down with an unspecified illness Tuesday. However, the running back appears to be working through this ailment well, and he will have one more chance to practice in full before Sunday's game against Washington. Brightwell saw season highs in touches and offensive snaps during the Giants' loss to Dallas on Thanksgiving Day, so he could be in line for additional usage behind Saquon Barkley and Matt Breida when healthy.
Published: Thu, Dec 1 at 12:12pm by Rotowire.com
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Not spotted at practice Wednesday
Brightwell (illness) wasn't spotted at practice Wednesday, Dan Duggan of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Brightwell is under the weather to start Week 13 prep but will have two more opportunities to practice before the team needs to make a decision on his status for Sunday's matchup against Washington. The aliment comes at an inopportune time for the running back, who saw a career-high seven touches in the team's Week 12 loss to Dallas.
Published: Wed, Nov 30 at 11:35am by Rotowire.com
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Under the weather
Brightwell is dealing with an illness Tuesday, Dan Duggan of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Brightwell is coming off a season-high five carries for 31 yards, as well as two catches on two targets for 18 yards in Week 12's loss to the Cowboys. With no one behind Brightwell on the team's positional depth chart, a promotion from the team's practice squad may be in order, if he is unable to suit up Sunday against the Commanders.
Published: Tue, Nov 29 at 12:44pm by Rotowire.com
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Gets expanded role Thursday
Brightwell rushed five times for 31 yards and caught both of his targets for 18 yards in a Thanksgiving loss to Dallas.
Analysis: Brightwell came into Thursday with just four carries on the campaign and none since Week 5. The second-year back exceeded that season total against the Cowboys, and he added his first two receptions (on his first two targets) of the season. Brightwell did well with the opportunity, ripping off a 15-yard gain on his second carry, following that with an 11-yard rush and later adding carries of four and six yards, respectively, on consecutive plays to single-handedly give New York a first down.…read more
Published: Fri, Nov 25 at 8:49am by Rotowire.com
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Gets into end zone Sunday
Brightwell rushed twice for five yards and scored a touchdown in a 27-22 win over the Packers on Sunday. He also returned three kickoffs for 56 yards.
Analysis: When Saquon Barkley briefly departed with a shoulder injury during a Giants drive that ran from the end of the third quarter through the beginning of the fourth, both Brightwell and Matt Breida got to see more time than usual on the field. Brightwell logged two carries during the drive and helped New York tie the score 20-20 with a two-yard run into the end zone. With just four carries and no receiving targets through five weeks, it's clear that Brightwell isn't going to be asked to do much…read more
Published: Sun, Oct 9 at 9:18pm by Rotowire.com
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Gets one touch in Week 2
Brightwell rushed once for 14 yards and was not targeted in the passing game during a 19-16 victory versus the Panthers on Sunday.
Analysis: Brightwell was in on only one offensive snap in the contest, but he made the most of it with a 14-yard rush in a third-and-one situation in the fourth quarter. The carry moved New York past midfield and helped set up Graham Gano's game-deciding 56-yard field goal. In addition to the one carry, Brightwell logged 17 snaps on special teams, which is where he figures to make most of his impact this season.
Published: Mon, Sep 19 at 1:49pm by Rotowire.com
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Full participant Wednesday
Brightwell (undisclosed) was a full participant during Wednesday's practice, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
Analysis: Brightwell was sidelined for the Giants' second preseason contest but returned to action for the finale and will be good to go for the regular-season opener. The second-year return man is expected to operate as a depth running back behind Saquon Barkley and Matt Breida, but he'll get most of his snaps on special teams.
Published: Wed, Sep 7 at 1:25pm by Rotowire.com
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Won't play against Bengals
Brightwell won't play in Sunday's preseason matchup against the Bengals, Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News reports.
Analysis: Both Brightwell and Matt Breida (undisclosed) will be held out against Cincinnati, so Antonio Williams and Jashaun Corbin should have increased opportunities in the Giants' backfield. Brightwell will try to return for the team's final game of the preseason Aug. 28 against the Jets.
Published: Fri, Aug 19 at 8:42am by Rotowire.com
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Could get big opportunity Thursday
Brightwell figures to see plenty of action in Thursday's preseason opener versus New England, Dan Duggan of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: No. 2 running back Matt Breida is dealing with an undisclosed injury and isn't expected to play Thursday, and Saquon Barkley will likely see very limited snaps. That should leave lots of room for youngsters Antonio Williams, Jashaun Corbin and Brightwell to show off their skills. Brightwell was listed as the third-string running back on the Giants' first unofficial depth chart, but Williams has more often been receiving those reps during camp. Only one of Brightwell, Williams and Corbin may…read more
Published: Wed, Aug 10 at 9:05pm by Rotowire.com
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Participates in minicamp
Brightwell (neck) was a participant in the Giants' voluntary minicamp Wednesday.
Analysis: Brightwell ended last season on IR after suffering a neck injury in Week 15 against the Cowboys. The 2021 sixth-round selection saw little work on offense during his rookie campaign, getting one carry for four yards and one reception on one target for six yards in 13 games. Instead Brightwell was a consistent contributor on special teams, a role he'll likely continue this upcoming season.
Published: Wed, Apr 20 at 2:28pm by Rotowire.com
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Placed on injured reserve
Brightwell (neck) was placed on injured reserve Thursday, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
Analysis: Brightwell sustained a neck injury in Week 15 and hadn't returned to practice since then. With just two games remaining in the regular season, he'll be unable to return to the 2021 campaign. The 2021 sixth-rounder appeared in 13 games during his rookie season but played primarily on special teams.
Published: Thu, Dec 30 at 12:16pm by Rotowire.com
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Unavailable Sunday
Brightwell (neck) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Eagles, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
Analysis: Brightwell suffered the neck injury last week against the Cowboys and will be sidelined for at least one game. Saquon Barkley (ankle) and Devontae Booker are the only other running backs on the active roster, so the Giants could add a back from the practice squad for depth purposes this weekend.
Published: Fri, Dec 24 at 11:33am by Rotowire.com
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No practice Wednesday
Brightwell (neck) is not participating in Wednesday's practice, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
Analysis: Brightwell suffered a neck injury in the first half of Sunday's loss to the Cowboys and did not retake the field. The special-teams contributor will have two more chances to practice ahead of Week 16's road matchup against the Eagles.
Published: Wed, Dec 22 at 9:35am by Rotowire.com
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Not returning Sunday
Brightwell (neck) will not return Sunday against the Cowboys, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
Analysis: Brightwell suffered the neck injury in the first half on a special-teams play. His absence shouldn't impact the Giants' offense, as he is primarily a special-teams contributor.
Published: Sun, Dec 19 at 12:24pm by Rotowire.com
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Suffers neck injury
Brightwell is questionable to return after suffering a neck injury in Sunday's game against Dallas, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
Analysis: Brightwell suffered the injury in the first half on a special teams play. He has recorded only one rushing attempt and one reception across 12 games this season, so his absence isn't likely to have a major effect on the Giants' offense.
Published: Sun, Dec 19 at 11:05am by Rotowire.com
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Returns from COVID list
Brightwell was activated from the reserve/COVID-19 list Monday, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
Analysis: Dan Duggan of The Athletic confirms that Brightwell actually tested positive for COVID-19, but the rookie running back has evidently recovered. If any lingering effects of the virus don't prevent Brightwell from suiting up Monday in Tampa Bay, his role will depend on the health of Saquon Barkley (ankle) and Devontae Booker (hip), who are both well above Brightwell in New York's backfield pecking order when healthy.
Published: Mon, Nov 15 at 12:34pm by Rotowire.com
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Still on COVID-19 list
Brightwell (undisclosed) remains on the reserve/COVID list as of Sunday.
Analysis: Brightwell was among a number of Giants players and personnel to enter the COVID-19 protocol this week, and while he was listed as questionable Sunday against the Raiders, the team was unable to activate him Saturday, according to Dan Duggan of The Athletic. With Saquon Barkley (ankle) again inactive, the Giants were left with Devontae Booker, Elijhaa Penny and Cullen Gillaspia out of the backfield for Week 9. Booker ended up injuring his hip during Sunday's 23-16 loss, so if Brightwell can get…read more
Published: Sun, Nov 7 at 1:26pm by Rotowire.com
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Not playing Sunday
Brightwell (undisclosed) is unavailable for Sunday's game against the Raiders, according to Dan Benton of USA Today.
Analysis: Brightwell missed Thursday's and Friday's practices after landing in the COVID-19 protocol and wasn't activated from the reserve/COVID-19 list Saturday. With Saquon Barkley (ankle) still sidelined, the Giants are down to Devontae Booker, Elijhaa Penny and Cullen Gillaspia out of the backfield.
Published: Sun, Nov 7 at 9:17am by Rotowire.com
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Officially questionable
Brightwell (undisclosed) is officially listed as questionable for Sunday's matchup with the Raiders.
Analysis: Brightwell missed Thursday's and Friday's practice after landing in COVID-19 protocol. If he is ultimately cleared ahead of Sunday's game, he will be expected to provide depth in the backfield behind Devontae Booker and Elijhaa Penny as well as contribute on special teams.
Published: Sat, Nov 6 at 7:20am by Rotowire.com
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In COVID-19 protocol
Brightwell didn't practice Thursday and is in the COVID-19 protocol, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
Analysis: Brightwell was seemingly one of several Giants players and test members that tested positive for COVID-19 earlier this week, but following subsequent retesting, only running backs coach Burton Burns has had his positive result confirmed. Meanwhile, running back Saquon Barkley (ankle) and safety Xavier McKinney were placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list Wednesday, though New York seemingly has hope that both will be cleared upon further follow-up testing. Brightwell's ability to avoid landing on…read more
Published: Thu, Nov 4 at 1:20pm by Rotowire.com
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No usage in Week 8
Brightwell did not play an offensive snap during Monday's 20-17 loss against the Chiefs.
Analysis: Brightwell has yet to record an offensive snap since the Giants' Week 3 loss against the Falcons. The 2021 sixth-round pick has failed to make a name in the Giants' rushing attack despite an injury to All-Pro running back Saquon Barkley (ankle). In Barkley's absence the team has relied exclusively on running backs Devontae Booker and Elijhaa Penny. Monday's contest saw only Booker register any carries for the Giants, totaling 60 yards on 15 attempts.
Published: Tue, Nov 2 at 8:08am by Rotowire.com
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No offensive snaps in Week 7
Brightwell didn't play an offensive snap in Sunday's 25-3 win over the Panthers.
Analysis: All 18 of Brightwell's snaps came on special teams. With Saquon Barkley (ankle) out, New York used fullback Elijhaa Penny (nine carries for 24 yards) to spell primary option Devontae Booker (14 carries for 51 yards and a touchdown). Despite Penny's lackluster performance, the Giants seem to trust him more than Brightwell, whom the team selected in the sixth round of the 2021 draft.
Published: Mon, Oct 25 at 9:29am by Rotowire.com
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Not part of offense in loss
Brightwell failed to record an offensive snap in Sunday's 44-20 loss to the Cowboys.
Analysis: Brightwell's 16 special teams snaps represented his only action in Week 5. The rookie's lack of usage in the running game was surprising considering teammate Saquon Barkley exited the game in the first quarter with an ankle injury. Instead, it was Devontae Booker and Elijhaa Penny who carried the load after Barkley's departure. Booker, the team's No. 2 back, rushed 16 times while Penny, listed as a fullback, finished the game with just one carry. Brightwell could see a modest bump to his usage…read more
Published: Tue, Oct 12 at 2:01pm by Rotowire.com
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Not involved on offense
Brightwell failed to record a single rush or target in Sunday's 27-21 win over the Saints.
Analysis: The 2021 sixth-round pick did not see the field on offense and is currently the team's third-string running back behind Saquon Barkley and Devontae Booker. With Barkley back to playing at an elite level, both Booker and Brightwell will find it difficult to see much playing time. However, if Barkley were to suffer another injury, the rookie could potentially find himself seeing meaningful touches. Until then, Brightwell remains well off the fantasy radar heading into a Week 5 matchup against the…read more
Published: Tue, Oct 5 at 9:47pm by Rotowire.com
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Has one carry
Brightwell had one carry for four yards Sunday against the Falcons.
Analysis: With Devontae Booker a healthy scratch, it appears Brightwell is Saquon Barkley's backup for the time being. Barkley seems healthy enough to carry a full workload, however.
Published: Tue, Sep 28 at 2:45am by Rotowire.com
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Not part of offense in Week 2
Brightwell didn't record an offensive snap during Thursday's contest against Washington.
Analysis: Brightwell played eight offensive snaps and caught his only target for six yards in Week 1, but he wasn't part of the offense in Week 2. The 22-year-old is not a viable fantasy option as long as Saquon Barkley and Devontae Booker are healthy.
Published: Mon, Sep 20 at 11:31am by Rotowire.com
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Records one catch
Brightwell caught his lone target for six yards in Sunday's 27-13 loss to the Broncos.
Analysis: Brightwell did not record a single carry in the contest while operating as the team's No. 3 running back. The rookie played eight of a total 61 offensive snaps as the Giants struggled to get much of anything going on offense. Brightwell is not a trustworthy option for fantasy managers as long as both Saquon Barkley and Devontae Booker are healthy. Next up for the Giants is a Thursday night tilt against Washington to kick of Week 2.
Published: Tue, Sep 14 at 9:51pm by Rotowire.com
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Features late Sunday
Brightwell rushed three times for seven yards in Sunday's 17-13 preseason loss to the Browns. He also caught three of five targets for 12 yards.
Analysis: Brightwell saw action behind Devontae Booker and Corey Clement. The rookie sixth-rounder didn't manage many yards, but Brightwell at least showed some pass-catching utility, tying for the team high in receptions. Although Booker and Clement represent needed veteran insurance behind star Saquon Barkley, Brightwell nonetheless will hope to earn a roster spot following next weekend's exhibition finale.
Published: Sun, Aug 22 at 1:39pm by Rotowire.com
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Back at practice
Brightwell (undisclosed) is practicing Tuesday after being sidelined early in training camp, Art Stapleton of The Bergen Record reports.
Analysis: It's unclear what's kept the rookie sixth-round pick off the field, but he's returned to practice after missing the first preseason game. The next few weeks of the preseason could be big for Brightwell, who's competing with Corey Clement for No. 3 on the depth chart behind Saquon Barkley (knee) and Devontae Booker.
Published: Tue, Aug 17 at 2:53pm by Rotowire.com
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