The New York Giants made the commitment this NFL offseason to keep veteran quarterback Eli Manning under center as the centerpiece of the offense for at least through the 2018 campaign. There is a tremendous level of support and believe within the organization that he can take a huge step forward after a disappointing season.

This optimism has quickly rubbed off on rookie running back Saquon Barkley, who has recently voiced to TMZ Sports that he is hopeful that Manning is primed to have a comeback season while leading the franchise to much success on the field.

“Hopefully!” he told TMZ Sports. “Hopefully. I think Eli looked great in camp.”

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Manning is coming off a disappointing 2017 season that saw him have his share of struggles with a notable drop in production throwing for just 3,468 yards to go along with 19 touchdowns and 13 interceptions. His porous play contributed to the Giants finishing the year only above the winless Cleveland Browns in scoring offense with 15.4 points per game. This has brought up serious questions about whether Manning could even be a serviceable quarterback at this point of his career.

However, the Giants have shown much faith in the 37-year-old after adding more pieces to the puzzle around him. This includes Barkley possibly bringing the stability to the running game that has been lacking for quite some time along with some more protection up front on the offensive line with Nate Solder at left tackle that should help more effectively protect his blind side.

New York will also have a healthy selection of receiving options with star wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. back in the mix while the likes of wideout Sterling Shepard and tight end Evan Engram could each emerge into prominent factors in the passing game. The pieces are around Manning to step it up in 2018; it now lies on him to take advantage of the situation before him.