Giants sign ex-Rutgers RB Robert Martin after impressive rookie minicamp tryout

Robert Martin runs a drill during the Rutgers football Pro Day held at the New York Jets practice facility. 3/9/18 Florham Park, N.J.(John Munson)

Robert Martin was among the more impressive offensive players on the field during his tryout at Giants rookie minicamp over the weekend, and on Monday the former Rutgers running back put pen to paper on a contract.

"This is a real big opportunity for me," Martin said Saturday before the second of three practices. "I want to show them that I can play and I haven't reached my peak yet. I want them to see my mindset is to work and make a play when my name is called."

In four collegiate seasons at Rutgers, Martin's explosiveness helped him average 5.1 yards per attempt while rushing for 2,274 yards and 18 touchdowns on 449 carries.

While No. 2 overall pick Saquon Barkley out of Penn State figures to be a three-down back in the Giants offense, and veteran Jonathan Stewart will likely be the No. 2 back on the depth chart, there is opportunity for Martin to make the roster after Paul Perkins was waived/injured last week.

In addition to Martin, the Giants also announced the signings of offensive guard Chris Scott, cornerback Chris Lewis-Harris, offensive guard and former Eagle Malcolm Bunche, wide receiver Alonzo Russell, and defensive back Mike Jones.

The Giants also released Adam Bisnowaty, a 2017 sixth-round draft pick, along with cornerback Brandon Dixon, linebacker Derrick Matthews, cornerback C.J. Goodwin, cornerback Bryon Fields, and tight end Stephen Battett.

After parting company with Dixon and Goodwin, the stage appears set for a position battle to unfold at cornerback between undrafted rookie free agents Grant Haley and Aaron Davis.

Matt Lombardo may be reached at MLombardo@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @MattLombardoNFL

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