Eric DeWayne Gray Bio
Eric DeWayne Gray is a professional American football running back and kickoff returner currently playing for the New York Giants in the National Football League (NFL). Born on November 4, 1999, Gray has made notable contributions during his college career at the University of Tennessee and the University of Oklahoma before entering the NFL in 2023.
Early Life and Background
Eric Gray was born in Memphis, Tennessee, where he also grew up and attended Lausanne Collegiate School. During his high school career, he distinguished himself as a standout football player, earning the Tennessee Mr. Football title three times. His sophomore season saw him rush for 2,251 yards and 38 touchdowns, and as a junior, he improved to 3,151 yards and 45 touchdowns, earning the Tennessee Gatorade Football Player of the Year award twice. He also helped lead his team to Tennessee High School Championships in both his sophomore and junior years.
Initially rated a four-star recruit, Gray committed to the University of Michigan during the summer before his senior year but later decommitted and ultimately chose to play college football at the University of Tennessee. His high school achievements set a strong foundation for his collegiate and professional career.
Path to American Football
Gray’s early success in high school football propelled him into a promising college career. At Tennessee, he made an immediate impact as a true freshman, rushing for 539 yards and scoring four touchdowns on 101 carries, along with 13 receptions for 115 yards and a touchdown. He set a school record for rushing yards by a freshman in a single game with 246 yards against Vanderbilt, earning Southeastern Conference Freshman of the Week honors.
After two seasons at Tennessee, Gray entered the transfer portal and moved to the University of Oklahoma. There, he gradually took over the Sooners’ backfield, culminating in a strong 2022 season with 1,366 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns. His performance included eight games with over 100 rushing yards and four games with multiple rushing touchdowns, earning him second-team All-Big 12 honors.
Eric DeWayne Gray Career
Early Career (2023–Present)
Eric Gray was selected by the New York Giants in the fifth round, 172nd overall, of the 2023 NFL Draft. He began his professional career primarily contributing as a backup running back and on special teams with kickoff and punt return duties. During his rookie season, Gray appeared in 13 games, showcasing his versatility and potential at the professional level.
In October 2023, Gray was placed on injured reserve due to injury but was reactivated in late November. His ability to contribute in multiple roles has made him a valuable asset to the Giants’ roster as he continues to develop in the NFL.
New York Giants Era (2023–Present)
Since joining the New York Giants, Eric Gray has been working to establish himself within the team’s offensive scheme. Despite limited playing time, he has demonstrated his skills as a reliable running back and return specialist. His adaptability and work ethic have earned him opportunities to contribute on special teams and in offensive packages.
In 2025, Gray faced a setback due to a torn meniscus, which placed him on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list. However, he was activated ahead of the Week 12 matchup, indicating his recovery and return to active play. His resilience and determination remain key factors as he aims to secure a larger role with the Giants moving forward.
Driving Style and Strengths
Eric Gray is known for his agility and vision as a running back, combining quickness with the ability to find running lanes effectively. His experience as a kickoff returner highlights his speed and open-field elusiveness. Gray’s versatility allows him to contribute both as a runner and receiver out of the backfield, making him a multi-dimensional threat on offense.
Notable Events and Milestones
Among Gray’s notable achievements are his record-setting freshman game at Tennessee and his standout 2022 season at Oklahoma, where he earned second-team All-Big 12 honors. His selection in the 2023 NFL Draft and immediate impact as a rookie with the New York Giants mark significant milestones in his professional career.
Eric DeWayne Gray Career Wins
While American football does not record wins in the same manner as individual sports, Eric Gray’s career highlights include key performances and contributions to team successes at both the collegiate and professional levels. His rushing yards, touchdowns, and special teams impact reflect his growing influence on the field.
College Career Highlights
At Tennessee, Gray set a freshman rushing record in a single game and led the team in rushing yards during his sophomore year. His transfer to Oklahoma saw him become the primary running back in 2022, rushing for over 1,300 yards and scoring 11 touchdowns. These performances earned him conference recognition and increased his profile ahead of the NFL Draft.
Professional Contributions
In his rookie NFL season with the New York Giants, Gray contributed as a running back and return specialist across 13 games. Despite an injury setback, his ability to return to active status demonstrates his commitment and potential for future contributions.
Eric DeWayne Gray Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Details about Eric Gray’s family background have not been publicly disclosed. There is no verified information regarding any family involvement in professional sports or football lineage.
Personal Life
Eric Gray has maintained a private personal life with no publicly confirmed information about a spouse or children. He continues to focus on his professional football career.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season presents both challenges and opportunities for Eric Gray. After recovering from a torn meniscus that placed him on the PUP list, Gray was activated ahead of Week 12, signaling his readiness to contribute once again. His return is expected to bolster the Giants’ backfield depth and special teams units.
As Gray continues to develop his skills and gain experience, his role within the team is anticipated to grow. The Giants will look to leverage his versatility and athleticism as they pursue success in the competitive NFL landscape.