The New York Giants aimed high in their search for a running back.

The Giants called the Atlanta Falcons before Tuesday's NFL trade deadline to ask about star Bijan Robinson, according to reports on Wednesday.

It is not clear whether New York made a formal offer. League sources believe Robinson is untouchable as the face of the Falcons.

The best back in football

Robinson leads the NFL in rushing. The 24-year-old has 1,130 yards from scrimmage this season. Only Detroit's Jahmyr Gibbs has more.

Head coach John Harbaugh was asked about adding a playmaker an hour before the deadline.

"I'd be excited ... for the right guy," Harbaugh said. "There's players you love and players you like. I would want a player that we love."

A long running back search

Robinson was only the latest name on the list. Since Harbaugh took over, the Giants have checked in on Kenneth Walker III, Jeremiyah Love, Tony Pollard and Justice Hill.

They also offered the Indianapolis Colts a second-round pick, a future fifth-round pick and a player for Jonathan Taylor. The Colts wanted much more. New York later pulled the offer.

Harbaugh wants a big, physical team built around the run game. So far the Giants rank 17th in rushing at 112.1 yards per game.

Skattebo leads the way

New York stood pat at the deadline. Cam Skattebo will stay the lead back. He has 418 rushing yards and is set to return Thursday night against the Washington Commanders after missing a game with a hamstring injury.

Tyrone Tracy Jr. is on injured reserve. The Giants are 5-2-1 and lead the NFC East.