Giants practice blog: Mike Tomlin talks John Harbaugh and Giants

NBC's Mike Tomlin feeling good about John Harbaugh's Giants

Few coaches know John Harbaugh's teams better than Mike Tomlin. They met 44 times including the playoffs, with Tomlin's Steelers holding a 25-19 advantage over Harbaugh's Ravens.

So with Tomlin joining NBC's Football Night in America crew, he was a perfect mind to pick about his expectations on how Harbaugh will improve the Giants ahead of the team's Sunday Night Football opener against the Cowboys.

"He has a definitive style for how he engineers victory, and I just think that’s a major component of winning and winning consistently," Tomlin said on a conference call Thursday. "He’s a good, established coach. I think the Giants are a really good organization. They’ve had bad teams, but I think it’s a good organization.

"So I think that the fix there is going to be quicker than maybe outsiders might realize. I’m not putting them in the Super Bowl, but I certainly expect those guys to be competitive and be competitive almost instantly. I just know that about Harbs. His training camps and how he develops a team has been well documented."

Tomlin added the Giants will have a higher floor than in year's past because of what Harbaugh brings. It'll be easier to enjoy for him to watch without game-planning for a Harbaugh team.

But count Tomlin as someone who thinks a different Giants team will emerge this season.

"I’m not going to be shocked when they show up in that stadium and they play with a really high floor," Tomlin said. "They’re solid in all areas. They don’t beat themselves. They won’t be highly penalized, et cetera, et cetera. I just have that level of feeling about Harbs and what he’s capable of delivering."

How much does it cost for a family of four to go to a Giants game?

If you’re planning on attending a Giants game at MetLife Stadium next Sunday or at any point this season, it’ll cost a lot. Just not as much as other fans around the NFL.

According to bookies.com, the Giants are the 18th-most expensive game experience among the 32 NFL teams in terms of average cost for a family of four. The average price for a family is $595.09 factoring in four tickets, parking, two beers, two sodas and four hot dogs.

The Giants moved up three spots from last year, according to the survey. They also ranked third among NFC East teams, with the Eagles ranked 10th ($913.34 average) and the Commanders 17th ($619.34). The Cowboys were the second-cheapest game experience at just $343.43.

The most expensive game experience? The Buffalo Bills, who have an average cost of $1,799.23 for a four-person family at their new Highmark Stadium.

Thanks to rising costs everywhere, going to sporting events have been a luxury most people can’t afford. It does help knowing the Giants aren’t as expensive as some of their other counterparts. However, the Jets are a cheaper deal with an average price tag of $520.45.

Weekly spreads and futures odds for the Giants

BetOnline Sports & Casino posted its latest odds regarding the Giants this week and, well, they’re not great.

They have the Giants favored in just five of their 17 games and the underdogs in all eight of their road games. Their two biggest spreads come in the first month of the season: An 8.5-point underdog at the Rams in Week 2 and a 7-point favorite over the Cardinals in Week 4.

Clearly the site doesn’t believe very strongly in those spreads, however. Despite the Giants being favorites just five times they list the over/under for wins at 7.5.

Here is a look at the spreads on all 17 games:

Week 1 vs Dallas Cowboys: +2.5

Week 2 at Los Angeles Rams: +8.5

Week 3 vs Tennessee Titans: -3

Week 4 vs Arizona Cardinals: -7

Week 5 at Washington Commanders: +2.5

Week 6 vs New Orleans Saints: -2.5

Week 7 at Houston Texans: +5.5

Week 8 BYE

Week 9 at Philadelphia Eagles: +5.5

Week 10 vs Washington Commanders: -1.5

Week 11 vs Jacksonville Jaguars: +1.5

Week 12 at Indianapolis Colts: +2.5

Week 13 vs San Francisco 49ers: +3

Week 14 at Seattle Seahawks: +7.5

Week 15 vs Cleveland Browns: -4.5

Week 16 at Detroit Lions: +4.5

Week 17 at Dallas Cowboys: +4.5

Week 18 vs Philadelphia Eagles: +3

A few other futures odds regarding the Giants’ season and individual awards:

Winning the Super Bowl: 66-1

NFC Championship: 35-1

NFC East: 7-1

Playoffs: Yes +240, No -300 (Those odds imply a 72.8% chance they will NOT make the playoffs.)

MVP: Jaxson Dart 66-1

Offensive Player of the Year: Malik Nabers 40-1, Cam Skattebo 100-1, Jaxson Dart 200-1

Defensive Player of the Year: Abdul Carter 25-1, Brian Burns 33-1, Kayvon Thibodeaux 100-1

Offensive Rookie of the Year: Malachi Fields 100-1

Defensive Rookie of the Year: Arvel Reese 19-2, Colton Hood 75-1

Coach of the Year: John Harbaugh 7-1

Comeback Player of the Year: Malik Nabers 10-1, Cam Skattebo 18-1, Odell Beckham Jr. 125-1

Watch your mouth, Giants fans

Turns out Giants fans don’t just wear blue. They talk blue, too.

An analysis by ActionNetwork.com of over 2.5 million comments from the subreddits of all 32 NFL teams found that Giants fans were “the most foul-mouthed” in the league. The study said 14.98% of their comments contained curse words, tops among all fanbases. A close second were, surprisingly enough, fans of the Colts. They had swear words in 14.88% of their posts.

Daniel Jones seems to be the common denominator here.

Third place? Browns fans at 14.72%. That makes sense.

Jets fans were fifth with 14.34%.

That’s surprising considering that the Jets placed second when the study looked at negative tone and not just the lurid language. Over one quarter of their comments — 25.76% — had a “negative tone.” Only Colts fans (26.32%) were more negative. In other words, Jets fans complain and gripe a lot, they just tend to do so in more of a PG-rated way.

The Giants ranked 12th in most negative comments, right between two perennial playoff contenders, the Lions and Eagles.

Oh, and just so you don’t think it’s a New York thing to talk (or type) in a NSFW way, the most polite fans in the league belong to the Buffalo Bills. Only 10.70% of their comments needed bleeping out. The Rams and Packers (10.98%) tied for the second-most civil.

Something all 32 teams had in common was their vocabulary. Every fan base had the same word among their most common curses. It starts with an S.

One more interesting tidbit: Fans of the Cardinals cussed in 14.48% of their comments, fourth-most in the league, yet 51.11% of their remarks carried a “positive tone” which is second-best and only behind the fans of the Buccaneers (51.71%). Apparently there is a lot to be happy about — and curse about — in Arizona these days. Who knew?

'I don't hope we win this year. I expect it.'

John Harbaugh’s hire raised expectations around the Giants this season. After nine losing seasons in the last 10 years, there’s a new standard fueled by optimism that things can change immediately.

The Giants’ season begins in earnest on Monday as they begin final preparations for the Cowboys on Sunday Night Football. Harbaugh was measured when asked what he thinks this group can do.

“I know they'll go out there and be the very best football team they can be. That's my expectation,” Harbaugh said Wednesday. “What that ends up being depends on how good we are. And that's what you find out when you play the games, everything else is just talk.”

Betting websites have set the over/under for the Giants’ win total at 7.5. The Giants have won more than seven games just once since the start of the 2017 season, so that’d be a marked improvement.

Senior player personnel executive and board director Chris Mara certainly thinks the Giants are capable of such goals. On an interview with ESPN New York, Mara said it’s not about hoping for improvement. It’s believing it will happen.

“We've used the word hope in the last 10 or 12 years,” Mara said Aug. 21 “The hope now has turned into expectations. At least for me it has. I don't hope we win this year. I expect it. I think everybody else does, too."

Harbaugh said it was fair since every team goes into a game thinking they will win. But the goal is not putting pressure on the Giants. It’s demanding this team plays its best and letting that raise the standard, not outside demands.

The Giants don’t want another four-win season. Harbaugh knows that, and the Giants don’t plan to settle for that, starting with how they come out for next Sunday’s opener.

“If you don’t expect to win, you certainly aren’t going to,” Harbaugh said. “We expect and we plan to and we'll be playing to win every single one of our games this year. That's our expectation, that's our plan, that's what we'll be striving for.”

Newsome very high on fellow CBs: 'I think we got the best cornerback room in the league'

Greg Newsome was held out of the Giants’ preseason finale among the veterans. It was a pretty good indication of how John Harbaugh feels about his free-agent signee at cornerback.

Newsome was confident that he’s a starting cornerback but he knows he has to prove it. He was even more boastful praising his fellow cornerbacks.

“I think we got the best cornerback room in the league,” Newsome said. “When you talk about depth and just guys having the ability to play. I feel like all of us can be out there Week 1 and play at a very elite level."

That’s high praise given how the Giants’ secondary struggled last season. But it speaks to how this cornerback battle has been tight all camp.

Newsome, Paulson Adebo, Deonte Banks and Colton Hood have all taken first-team reps at various points. Harbaugh hasn’t named his starting cornerbacks or decided if he’ll rotate through the group in the season opener Sept. 13.

“It could be that way,” he said Wednesday. “Or it could be two guys out there the whole time. There’s no reason to [rush] because if we name the starter then our opponents know...”

Either way, Newsome was confident the cornerbacks could handle the job. They’ll be tested right away with two of the league’s top passing attacks in the Cowboys and Rams the first two games.

Practice makes perfect? Will Harbaugh's intense camp produce better results?

When the Giants opened their preseason with 10 practices in 11 days in West Virginia and then continued on that heavy pace once they returned to New Jersey for the rest of the summer, it was a notable change from the way things used to be run. For Isaiah Likely, the tight end who followed John Harbaugh here from the Ravens, it was business as usual.

“I feel like that’s normal to me,” he said on Thursday. “If I wake up, I’m putting on cleats, that’s just the mantra I have. Hearing how Giants training camp was in the past, that was kind of mind-boggling to me.”

Under Brian Daboll there were certainly shorter practices and more days off. That schedule is gone. Maybe the results will change, too.

“These practices have definitely been probably the longest in duration,” wide receiver Darius Slayton said this week. “They've been the longest in duration, but they've been the most efficient. The way we practice the tempo is high, we're going from period to period. Even though the time is long, it doesn't feel as long as you would think because of the speed at which we practice and the efficiency that we practice at.”

“I feel like the guys embraced it,” Likely said of the tempo. “We had a good time at the Greenbrier and then we got here and I feel like everybody is on the same mantra now. If we are in the building, then it’s all football.”

Things got sketchy at Giants practice today

Wednesday's observations

Here’s what was noticed at Giants practice during open portions viewed by the media on Wednesday, the last day we have access until Sept. 9

RB Najee Harris is now wearing No. 23. He had worn 22 when he was signed this month but that conflicted with cornerback Dru Phillips also wearing 22. Rookie CB Colton Hood also switched numbers from 12 to 33.

The Giants signed center Geno VanDeMark to the practice squad and released defensive back JT Woods. VanDeMark was last with the Colts as an undrafted free agent. VanDeMark was seen at practice while backup center Bryan Hudson was present without his helmet.

Malik Nabers was present on the field stretching after not being seen during individual drills Tuesday.

RB Tyrone Tracy Jr. and TE Theo Johnson were present and out of the red non-contact jerseys they wore Tuesday.

Banks has impressed, but now it's time to do it in a game

One of the surprises of Giants’ training camp has been the resurgence of Deonte Banks. After losing his starting cornerback job last year, Banks is squarely in the mix with Paulson Adebo and Greg Newsome.

Banks still has to prove in-game that he has fixed his issues with not tracking the ball and giving up too many completions. It’s the main reason the team declined his fifth-year option last spring. But general manager Joe Schoen has been impressed with Banks showing improvement under first-year defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson.

“I give (defensive backs coach) Addison Lynch, Double D (secondary coach Donald D’Alesio), Dennard all credit,” Schoen said Wednesday. “They invested in the kid and he's had a really good camp, and you know hopefully can continue to build on the camp that he's had.”

Wilson said last week nothing has been finalized with deciding his top two cornerbacks. But he praised Banks for believing in himself, being more detailed and playing with confidence while doing his assignments.

It remains to be seen how that translates next Sunday against the Cowboys in the season opener and beyond. But Banks is on track to give himself a chance to salvage his reputation after three disappointing seasons.

“I’m proud of Tae,” Schoen said. “Corner’s not an easy position. Your confidence can go up and down, and he's continued to battle and fight, and, again, he's taken advantage of the opportunity that he had this year.

“I like where he is from this camp, he's got to go out and do it on Sundays."

Joe Schoen's thoughts on NFL rookies going back to college

Joe Schoen may be one of the few GMs in the league who is excited about at least one aspect of the new rules regarding players returning to college after spending time in the NFL.

“I played four years,” he said on Wednesday of his career as a quarterback and wide receiver at DePauw. “With a fifth-year year, at 47, maybe I can go back. I have one more year in me.”

Assuming that does not happen, he is left being the general manager of an NFL team where suddenly the door between college and the pros swings both ways. With NIL now paying players more than they might make as practice squadders in the league, it can make more financial sense for some to return to college rather than stay in the NFL.

Other GMS have expressed disgust over the concept. Chris Ballard of the Colts said this week it is “the stupidest [expletive] I’ve ever heard.”

Schoen said he hasn’t had any players ask about being released to go back to school, but he did hear from several schools that reached out following the team’s rookie minicamp in the spring to ask about players who had the potential to return to college.

“I haven’t heard from any of those schools since then,” he said.

As for the future, a player having options other than the NFL may wind up playing a role in how the Giants scout and select their personnel, but Schoen doesn’t see it as a huge disruption.

“If they are draft eligible we’ll go through the proper work and figure out if it is going to be all-in with them if it’s still the rule by then,” Schoen said. “Who knows what it’s going to be a year from now. But our college scouting staff does a great job with the background and digging deep on these guys so I don’t think it will really affect us moving forward.”

It's your daily Malik Nabers update

For the first time in a while, Malik Nabers wasn’t seen in individual drills during practice portions available to the media. But as the media left the field, Nabers walked out fully dressed in uniform.

John Harbaugh said that Nabers was working with the trainers for a little bit and then was “involved in most of the team reps.” It was part of his recovery plan where Nabers is working through what he needs each day.

“That’s up to the trainers,” Harbaugh said. “They let us know what he’s ready for at a certain time. So it’s part of the process.”

The Giants haven't committed to having Nabers ready by the season opener. Harbaugh said they’re preparing for every outcome against the Cowboys.

“We have to plan that he'll be there fully,” Harbaugh said. “We'll have to plan that he's not there at all, and we'll have to plan that he's there for some partial amount, and every kind of amount in between. So, it makes it tough.”

Blocking out the noise: Slayton staying staying focused at trying to win a job

Darius Slayton has seen and heard plenty of things since the Giants drafted him in 2019. So when a recent report suggested the veteran receiver was in danger of being cut last Sunday, he shrugged it off.

“It’s not the first time. Probably won’t be the last time," Slayton said. "But I don’t really pay it too much of a mind, honestly. I just take it day by day."

Slayton’s standing was questioned after he played 33 snaps in the Giants’ preseason finale, while other starters and veterans sat or got pulled early. He’s lost ground to both veteran Darnell Mooney and rookie Malachi Fields.

But Slayton, the longest-tenured Giant on the roster, carries a $12.7 million cap hit of dead money if was waived. He is owed $9.7 million in guaranteed money this season.

So it made sense that he stayed, but he knows that anything can happen. Slayton has tried to focus on training camp where he said he's close to 100% after a sports hernia surgery this spring.

The veteran still believes he can be a playmaker in that room. It just means ignoring some of the outside noise while fighting to maintain his role with a new coach in John Harbaugh.

“You kind of just figured out the league the more you’re around,” Slayton said. “So at the end of the day, you control what you can control and let the rest fall where it may.”

GCAMP01_Harbaugh

John Harbaugh made a calculated decision not to play Jaxson Dart or most of his starters in the final two preseason games. As a result, they’ll have gone nearly a month between game action heading into the season opener against the Cowboys on Sept. 13.

So how is Harbaugh making sure his quarterback is ready for game speed? More reps in team drills to simulate game conditions.

“We're working hard on execution,” Harbaugh said Monday. “We're working really hard on that aspect of it. And that's for the quarterbacks – for everybody too, but we're trying to get it done in practice to make sure he's ready to go.”

It’s the battle between rest or rust. Dart getting sacked due to a missed block in the first preseason game likely affected Harbaugh’s plan to pull his starters. But by not playing, that’s less game reps for Dart, who’s still adjusting to the league after starting 12 games as a rookie.

To his credit, Dart believes he’ll be ready because the Giants defense has thrown many looks at him all camp. New defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson has challenged Dart, but the second-year QB thinks it’ll help prepare him for the Cowboys in under two weeks.

“Going into Week 1, I’ve been very grateful for those [reps],” Dart said Tuesday. “Because I would say early on in camp, there’s a lot of things that maybe caught me by surprise against a defense I haven’t really had a ton of experience playing against. But I think it’s just made myself and this team a lot better.”

Big Blue's practice squad is complete

The Giants announced Tuesday they filled the last four spots on their practice squad with OL Kingsley Eguakun, WR Charlie Jones, OL Darian Kinnard and DB Elijah Jones.

All four were present at practice Tuesday during portions open to media. Eguakun, a center, was waived by the Browns on Sunday. Kinnard started four games for the Packers last season. Charlie Jones played three seasons with the Bengals and had one return touchdown in each season. Elijah Jones was last with the Cardinals before being waived on Sunday.

Beckham gets his old No. 13 back

Odell Beckham Jr.’s comeback will keep going in a familiar jersey number:13.

The Giants announced Tuesday that Beckham will return to the number he wore from 2014-18, when he became a superstar receiver and electrified the NFL. He had been wearing No. 3 since being signed the spring.

No. 13 had been worn by receiver Jalin Hyatt. He was waived Sunday and signed to the practice squad, which started the conversation about if Beckham could get his old number back.

Beckham said Monday it’d be “an honor and a privilege” to wear No. 13, but nothing was determined yet. Less than 24 hours later, he’s got his number back. In his five Giants seasons in No. 13, Beckham put up 5,476 yards (second in team history) and 44 touchdowns (fourth in team history) on 390 catches.

Another receiver also changed numbers Tuesday. Rookie Malachi Fields went from 0 to 88. He wore 0 last year in his lone season at Notre Dame.

Nabers doesn't want to be on a snap count when he returns

Since Giants training camp started, neither the team nor Malik Nabers have said he’s definitely playing in Week 1. With camp over, that plan hasn’t changed.

Nabers is continuing to practice and ramp up for the regular season. While his return date is to be determined, Nabers does not want to be held back by a snap count when he’s cleared.

“I'm going to be making sure that I'm ready to go out there and I'm healthy enough to play all four quarters,” Nabers said Monday. “That nobody got to make sure I'm not in on every play or they have to make sure I got enough snaps or my snaps are limited. So, that's the main focus is just trying to be out there as much as I can.”

At the same time, Nabers is exercising caution. Despite not wearing a non-contact jersey, he’s still getting used to trusting his body at full speed against his teammates.

It’s why the Giants have slow-played his return without a firm deadline to be back. Whether Nabers plays on Sept. 13 against the Cowboys or not, the plan seems to be having him ready for a full game slate.

"I've put in many nights. I've sat in rooms, cried. I did everything to get to this moment right here," Nabers said. "So, I feel like when I get out there, I feel like I'll be better than what I was before."

Even if Nabers said it’ll take some time to get back into form, he doesn’t want to rush it. The point is when he's ready, he wants to continue as a top contributor, not just making cameos to get his rhythm back.

“It's certain things that you just got to . . . mentally prepare that before you go into a game and then everybody's just seeing you,” he said. “If you make a mistake, it's all broadcast, so nobody really knows. So, it's like, I want to be able to come out there and make no mistakes and just be able to fly around and do what I do. So, I'm getting there for sure. I'm getting there.”

As opener nears, Nabers is feeling 'real good'

Malik Nabers remained noncommittal to playing by Week 1. But the Giants receiver said Monday he’s feeling “real good” 13 days away from facing the Cowboys.

There’s still checkpoints to reach in his recovery from ACL and meniscus surgery. Nabers declined to say what they were but reiterated that he’s confident he’ll be a better receiver than in his rookie season.

Nabers also shared more thoughts from the low points of his rehab that added to his belief he’ll be a better receiver than in 2024.

“I’ve went through everything that I could just to get to this moment,” Nabers said. “I thought I would probably never run a route again, just how the stuff was going. But I made it here. I’ve been through the hard stuff so I feel like there’s nothing in my life that I can’t overcome.”

OBJ glad to make the roster; now, about that No. 13...

Odell Beckham Jr. was grateful Monday that he made the Giants’ roster. There was a relief when he spoke about John Harbaugh letting him know Sunday after practice.

“Definitely had that moment where it was like you could let out some of the pain that I feel like I went through,” Beckham said. “It was just very healing, very emotional, something I was very happy about."

The next question is whether or not he’ll continue to wear No. 3 or get his old number 13 back. Jalin Hyatt currently has No. 13 after the receiver was re-signed to the Giants’ practice squad after being waived.

It would add another layer to Beckham’s comeback wearing the number he made famous from 2014-18 with the Giants. The No. 3 jersey represents a new chapter in his journey, yet Beckham seemed open to entertaining Hyatt with offers to swap numbers.

“I think we all know what that means to me and there definitely will be some conversations,” Beckham said. "I'll just say, we'll see what happens. But like I said, it would be it would be an honor and a privilege to put that back on."

Source: Braxton Berrios back with the Giants

The Giants re-signed receiver Braxton Berrios to the practice squad.

Berrios was among the cuts Sunday, but a league source confirmed to Newsday that he'll be back on the team.

The Giants did some tricky roster maneuvering with Berrios. Because Berrios is a vested veteran - four years of NFL service - he could be waived without hitting the waiver wire. That allowed the Giants to use a roster spot on someone else and then re-sign Berrios without much problem.

Berrios will be expected to start Week 1 at kick returner. He performed well in training camp in that role so he'll likely resume it when practice begins Monday.

Also, linebacker Darius Muasau was claimed on waivers by the Patriots. He'll reunite with former Giants defensive coordinator Shane Bowen, who is now a defensive analyst in New England.

Once again, Harbaugh is trusting a rookie kicker

John Harbaugh can laugh now, but he said on Monday that the biggest lesson he learned last year about having a rookie kicker is: “It’s great if he can make the last kick of the season.”

Tyler Loop did not do that for the Ravens. His miss on a 44-yard attempt on the final play of the 2025 regular season eliminated Baltimore from playoff consideration and impacted the timing (if not the actual availability) of Harbaugh taking the job with the Giants after he was relieved of his position by the Ravens. Had they made the postseason and perhaps won a game or two, who knows where Harbaugh would be right now.

As it stands, he is in New York and, for the second year in a row, relying on a rookie kicker. He named Dominic Zvada his kicker after training camp.

For his part, Zvada said he didn’t remember much about Loop’s infamous finale.

“For me it’s all about this season and I’m just honored he gave me the starting spot,” Zvada said on Monday. “Games are going to come down to kicks so being able to help my team out and help put us in position to win is going to be crucial. We’re going to keep working and make sure we can do that.”

Zvada said kicking for Michigan in the Big Ten helped prepare him for the notorious winds of the Meadowlands and around the NFC East. He also noted that kicking in practices at the team facility just across the parking lot from MetLife Stadium is helpful.

“It’s windy every single day, and that’s good work,” he said. “I like going into the wind, having different angles, seeing how my ball flight is, those things really help. It not only helps mechanically but also confidence-wise going into a kick on gameday when you are staring into the face of the wind. You are like ‘Well, I’ve been here before, so I know what I’m doing.’”

And he added that he has enjoyed playing for Harbaugh, who has a background in special teams.

“He’s very technical,” Zvada said. “He uses a lot of vocabulary that kicking coaches use. It’s very refreshing to see that and it’s very nice to understand that he knows what he is talking about. I can listen to him and trust he knows exactly what he is saying. It’s been great so far.”

And what does Harbaugh say about Zvada? All good things, not to mention the trust he is showing by placing such faith in a rookie. Again.

“He’ll be fine,” Harbaugh said of Zvada. “I think he’s going to kick really well.”

Giants begin to make cuts ahead of Sunday's deadline

The Giants waived eight players on Saturday ahead of Sunday’s deadline to trim rosters to 53 players.

Cornerback Ugo Amadi, running back Damon Bankston, tight end Josiah Deguara, defensive tackle Leki Fotu, wide receiver Isaiah Hodgins, offensive lineman Brenden Jaimes, linebacker Anfernee Orji and receiver Kobe Prentice were cut. Deguara and Prentice were signed just this past week.

Fotu was perhaps the biggest surprise of the group since he had played mostly second-team reps with first team reps mixed in. Hodgins was a valuable late addition to the roster last season but the Giants upgraded the receiver room and those new players produced in training camp.

The team still must cut at least 30 more players by 6 p.m. Sunday.

Giants fill out practice squad with a few of their own cuts

The Giants are in the middle of their first practice post training-camp on Monday and there are a few waived players that were retained for the practice squad.

Besides Braxton Berrios, receiver Jalin Hyatt was also signed. The Giants chose to keep their 2023 draft pick around, and Hyatt is still wearing his No. 13 jersey for now. Which means Odell Beckham Jr. is still wearing his new No. 3, not his old number 13.

Jake Haener was present, and he'll be the Giants' third quarterback behind Jaxson Dart and Jameis Winston.

Other practice-squad signees spotted Monday include WR Dalen Cambre, S Raheem Layne, LB Chandler Martin, DL Josh Tupou, TE Grant Finley, OL Ryan Schernecke and Jared Gray and DB JT Woods.

Giants' Sisi Mauigoa enjoys facing brother, Jets LB Kiko Mauigoa in NFL game

Giants rookie lineman Sisi Mauigoa said this week that if had the chance, he’d pancake block his older brother and Jets linebacker Kiko on Friday.

The younger brother got his moment and some bragging rights. Sisi helped clear the way for Tyrone Tracy’s touchdown run in the Giants' 23-6 preseason win. That included blocking Kiko into the end zone and to the ground.

“I got hyped and I was just yelling at him,” Sisi said. “I was just 'ahhhhh'. But it was nothing serious. I wish I could’ve helped him up.”

Round 1 went to Sisi but it was an overall win for the Mauigoa family. Sisi said earlier this week his mother was torn about watching both of her sons face off.

Still, it was still a dream come true for both siblings. They had been teammates most of their lives and on Friday they shared the field as opponents and NFL players.

“We worked hard for it, being in the NFL," Sisi said. "Whether it’s on the same team or different teams, we want to go against each other because we want to make each other better.”

Giants send former picks packing

One thing that stands out among the Giants' roster cuts Sunday: how many ex-draft picks were let go.

Evan Neal (2022), Jalin Hyatt and Eric Gray (2023) and Darius Muasau (2024) all were waived. It's a reminder of how poor the 2022 and 2023 drafts were in terms of production. Those were also Joe Schoen's first two drafts as general manager.

Only two players are left from the 2022 class in Kayvon Thibodeaux and Micah McFadden. Two also remain from the 2023 class in Deonte Banks and John Michael Schmitz. All four are free agents after this season. Thibodeaux and Banks, both former first-round picks, have had their struggles.

Muasau is the first member of the 2024 class to be waived, yet that group has question marks around it. Theo Johnson is now TE2 behind Isaiah Likely, who became Jaxson Dart's favorite target in the preseason. Tyrone Tracy Jr.'s spot in the running back rotation also could slip with the arrival of Najee Harris. Both Johnson and Tracy will play key roles, but they're facing more challenges for playing time.

That's why Harbaugh's decisions, from Sunday's cuts to his free agent signings, stand out. There's no loyalty to past players. Just a focus on production and fixing a team that needs to improve after going 13-38 over the last three seasons.

Meet the Giants' initial 53-man roster

The Giants' initial 53-man roster has been released. As previously reported, Odell Beckham Jr. made the team to continue his comeback among the receivers.

Receivers Jalin Hyatt and Braxton Berrios were among the players cut, as was offensive lineman Evan Neal. Berrios could return to the team as a vested veteran who'll avoid the waiver wire. But for Hyatt and Neal, their disappointing tenures are over. Neal never lived up to his promise as the No. 7 pick in 2022.

Linebacker Darius Muasau was also waived. He started 18 games the last two seasons, but the former sixth-round pick in 2024 will continue his career elsewhere.

Players who made the roster that were on the bubble from being cut: CB Nic Jones, S Elijah Campbell, rookie DT Bobby Jamison-Travis, TE Thomas Fidone and LB Zaire Barnes. Jamison-Travis making the roster means all of the Giants' draft picks this year made the initial 53.

Cornerback Art Green and kicker Ben Sauls were also waived with injury settlements.

The full roster:

Reunion with Harbaugh: Giants acquire DT Okoye from Ravens

The Giants acquired Ravens defensive tackle C.J. Okoye in a trade Saturday for a 2028 seventh-round draft pick, a league source confirmed to Newsday.

Okoye, who is 6-6 and 365 pounds, played 13 games last season for the Ravens and had a fumble recovery in their preseason game Friday night. The Nigerian native came to the United States in 2023 through the International Player Pathway Program and spent two seasons on the Chargers’ practice squad.

The Giants needed more depth at defensive tackle behind veterans Shelby Harris and D.J. Reader. Assistant general manager Brandon Brown said this week the front office was continuing to do their due diligence to elevate the room after trading All-Pro tackle Dexter Lawrence to the Bengals this offseason.

By adding Okoye, the front office traded the pick they got earlier this month when they sent offensive lineman Josh Ezeudu to Kansas City. Okoye joins a room that also includes second-year tackle Darius Alexander and rookie Bobby Jamison-Travis.

Okoye also reunites with both coach John Harbaugh and defensive line coach Dennis Johnson.

Harbaugh on OBJ: 'He has done enough to make an NFL roster for sure'

Odell Beckham Jr. finished the Giants' preseason finale with three catches for 53 yards. He could've had more but couldn't haul in a wide-open pass from Jameis Winston that bounced off the turf.

Now comes the question.

Did Beckham do enough to make the roster ahead of Sunday's deadline to cut the roster to 53 players? John Harbaugh wouldn't say, although he praised Beckham's performance in training camp.

"I think he has done enough to make an NFL roster for sure," Harbaugh said. "He's played well. He's gotten better as camp has gone on. He deserves credit for that. He's done a really good job with it."

Beckham said it would mean "everything" to make the Giants' roster. He appreciated Harbaugh's endorsement and spoke fondly about his first five seasons here and his desire to win a championship. Making the team would make his comeback feel even sweeter.

"It's great to hear. It's in God's hands," Beckham said. "Just simply focusing on having the opportunity. It means a lot to me. I tried and I gave my best. Feels great to be back in that stadium. It's just so many good times, hard times that made me a man and I'm pleased with what I did. But always looking for more."

Here's the kicker: Harbaugh says Zvada gets the job

Dominic Zvada was 3-for-3 on field-goal attempts in the Giants’ 23-6 preseason win over the Jets on Friday at MetLife Stadium. He also aced his final audition in the kicking competition with Ben Sauls.

“He did great. He’ll win the job,” coach John Harbaugh said of Zvada. “He’ll be the kicker. That was the last step when we gave him a chance to prove he could do a whole game.”

Zvada converted field goals from 23, 53 and 46 yards. He also went 2-for-2 on extra point attempts. Meanwhile Jets kicker Jason Sanders, who the Giants cut in June, fell short on a 53-yard attempt and also missed an extra point attempt.

It’s a lot of trust in an undrafted rookie but Zvada earned that trust with a big leg and being more accurate in training camp. Harbaugh also had praise for Sauls, who did not play Friday.

“I would say Ben also won a job,” said Harbaugh. “He should be kicking in the National Football League based on the fact that if we didn’t have Dominic, Ben would’ve been the guy.”

Hey, Jets, remember me? Gipson scores against former team

Xavier Gipson had his revenge moment against his former team on Friday night.

Gipson caught a 37-yard touchdown pass late in the fourth quarter from Jake Haener. The Jets cut Gipson last season after his costly Week 1 fumble.

The Giants then signed him later in the season.

It's only preseason but it still meant something to Gipson, who celebrated by banging his head into padding on the wall before his teammates embraced him.

Slayton seems to be pretty far down the list on depth chart

Darius Slayton is certain to make the roster as the Giants' longest-tenured player. But his play Friday spoke loudly on where he stands in the receiving rotation.

Slayton played the entire first half on a night when most of the Giants' veterans were held out or played few snaps. He wasn't targeted while Odell Beckham Jr. was targeted six times.

Usually vets don't play long in the third preseason game unless there's something to prove. It hints that Slayton is behind Darnell Mooney, rookie Malachi Fields and Malik Nabers.

That showed up in practice this week with Fields getting a lot of first-team reps.

It'll be something to watch when the season starts. Slayton, who signed a three-year deal last year, has been a reliable player despite struggling last season. Yet, he appears to be losing ground with a new coaching staff.

Brother on brother crime: Giants' Sisi knocks down Jets' Kiko on block

Sisi and Kiko Mauigoa dreamed of facing each other in an NFL game. The brothers had their battle in the first quarter and younger brother Sisi got the better end.

On Tyrone Tracy's 6-yard touchdown run, Sisi led the way by blocking Kiko and sending him to the ground as Tracy scored behind them. Sisi stood over his brother and said a few words before joining the celebration.

Francis Mauigoa got matched up with his brother Kiko on this Giants TD!

(via @NFL) pic.twitter.com/IGNU2alTbS

— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) August 29, 2026

Score one for little brothers everywhere.

Tracy leaves preseason finale with injury

Giants running back Tyrone Tracy Jr. headed to the locker room after remaining down on the field for a while. Tracy was hit hard after an 8-yard gain. Several teammates came out to check on him, including Jaxson Dart and Tyler Nubin.

He was evaluated for a head injury and cleared concussion protocol. Tracy, who had four carries for 37 yards and a score, was back on the sidelines for the second half.

The effort was just what Tracy needed after his fumble last week in Miami and a missed block led to Dart being sacked in the preseason opener.

Tracy scores, Harris looks good and OBJ catches pair of key passes

The Giants lead 7-6 after the first quarter with the Jets. Odell Beckham Jr. came up big with a 23-yard catch that set up Tyrone Tracy's 6-yard touchdown run.

Najee Harris made his preseason debut on the Giants' second drive. He had a pair of 9-yard runs among his five carries and showed how his physical style fits in nicely on offense.

Tracy's touchdown overcame a bad start for the offense. Jameis Winston threw an interception on the third play after Beckham slipped on his route and Qwantez Stiggers tipped the pass to Jets teammate Marcelino McCrary-Ball.

On the second drive, Braxton Berrios fumbled after a catch-and-run after McCrary-Ball punched the ball out. Stiggers recovered it in the end zone for a touchback.

Beckham has two catches for 36 yards. Both catches were third-down conversions.

Who's in, who's out vs. Jets

The Giants are about to kickoff against the Jets and several starters will be held out based on who participated in pregame warmups

Jaxson Dart won't play, meaning Jameis Winston will start again at quarterback.

Running back Cam Skattebo, OL Andrew Thomas and Jermaine Eluemunor, S Jevon Holland, ILB Tremaine Edmunds, OLB Brian Burns and Abdul Carter, DT DJ Reader are among those who didn't warm up and won't play Friday. WR Malik Nabers, TE Theo Johnson and DT Shelby Harris won't play due to injury.

It also means that Dart and Skattebo, among others, will go at least a month without seeing game action. Burns, Holland, Thomas, Edmunds, Reader and Harris also sat out every preseason game, so their first game action will be the season opener Sept. 13 against the Cowboys.

Three storylines to watch in the Giants' preseason finale

1. How long will the starters play? 

John Harbaugh said he will weigh the risk of injury against giving his Giants starters valuable game reps implementing a new system. Jaxson Dart being drilled by a sack in the first game reminded how perilous that choice is. Harbaugh didn’t play many starters his last two preseason finales in Baltimore, but this is a young team. If they play, don’t expect a long leash. If they don’t, they won't see any more game action until the opener on Sept. 13.

2. Who makes a final push for a roster spot?

Last week, it was lineman J.C Davis who made a case for a roster spot with his strong play at left tackle. Who will it be this week? Tight end Thomas Fidone and inside linebacker Darius Muasau could use a strong outing. Of course, receiver Odell Beckham Jr. could use a strong day to help solidify a spot with Calvin Austin III moved to injured reserve.

3. How will the cornerback and running back rotations play out?

The running back snap count will be worth watching to see any glimpses of the pecking order. If Najee Harris gets carries Friday, will it be before or after Tyrone Tracy Jr.? That will tell even more if Tracy’s been forgiven or he’s losing ground to Harris and Singletary. The same goes for the cornerbacks, since Paulson Adebo, Colton Hood, Deonte Banks and Greg Newsome all will be healthy for a game for the first time this preseason.

Banks impresses in battle for starting CB job

It’s getting harder to avoid that Deonte Banks has a chance to reclaim his starting job at cornerback. Part of that is because Banks has looked sharper in practice as the weeks pass.

For three seasons, Banks has been a disappointment. When he played last year as a backup, he was still poor at tracking the ball and giving up completions. The Giants declining his fifth-year option was a no-brainer.

Yet the eye test in camp suggests Banks appears more motivated under defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson. Whether it’s breaking up passes or tracking the ball better, he’s looked like a different player.

“I think he just has belief in himself right now,” Wilson said. “He has a good group of DB coaches in that room that believe in him. The players believe in him, and he's playing with confidence.”

It’s a reason the cornerback competition remains close. Banks has gotten more first-team reps lately and Friday’s game at the Jets will help decide who’ll inherit the starting job.

Wilson said nothing has been finalized yet with his rotation. But he praised Banks, for taking greater pride in his assignments and being more consistent.

He had two pass breakups last week agains the Dolphins and played most clean while he suited up in the first half. It was another step in showing a new coaching staff that his past struggles shouldn’t affect their present.

Time will tell, of course, but Banks’ solid camp doesn’t appear to be aberration. It’s just a matter of proving it more in games and Wilson seems ready to give him that chance to prove why he's deserved more reps.

“He's out there, he's making the plays he's supposed to make,” Wilson said. “He’s detailed on his assignments, being where he's supposed to be, and that's giving him an opportunity to make plays. As long as he keeps doing that, he'll continue to get better.”

Predicting the Giants' 53-man roster

With Sunday’s 6 p.m. deadline to trim NFL rosters to 53 players, here’s our prediction for the Giants’ 53-man roster.

Calvin Austin III’s season-ending injury changed the dynamic in the receiver room. So has Najee Harris’ addition with the running backs and Tyrone Tracy’s two preseason miscues. But this is who we think will make the cut.

QB (2): Jaxson Dart, Jameis Winston

RB (4): Cam Skattebo, Najee Harris, Tyrone Tracy Jr., Devin Singletary

FB (1): Patrick Ricard

WR (6): Malik Nabers, Darius Slayton, Malachi Fields, Darnell Mooney, Braxton Berrios, Odell Beckham Jr.

TE (3): Isaiah Likely, Theo Johnson, Chris Manhertz

OL (9): Andrew Thomas, Jon Runyan Jr., John Michael Schmitz, Sisi Mauigoa, Jermaine Eluemunor, J.C. Davis, Aaron Stinnie, Bryan Hudson, Marcus Mbow

DL (5) : DJ Reader, Shelby Harris, Darius Alexander, Leki Fotu, Josh Tupou

OLB (4): Brian Burns, Abdul Carter, Kayvon Thibodeaux, Chauncey Golston

ILB (5): Arvell Reese, Tremaine Edmunds, Micah McFadden, Jack Kelly, Zaire Barnes

CB (6): Paulson Adebo, Deonte Banks, Dru Phillips, Colton Hood, Greg Newsome, Art Green

S (5): Jevon Holland, Tyler Nubin, Ar’Darius Washington, Jason Pinnock, Elijah Campbell

ST (3): Jordan Stout (punter), Dominic Zvada (kicker), Ben Mann (long snapper)

Skattebo gets into fight with members of the defense

The last full practice of the preseason saw the first intrateam dustup of the summer when running back Cam Skattebo had to be separated from defensive backs Greg Newsome II and Jevon Holland. Skattebo slid at the end of a run and came close to taking out Newsome’s ankles.

The players were separated.

Later, Skattebo made his way across the field to make peace with the defense. He was seen hugging Newsome but it wasn’t clear if his olive branch gesture was accepted by others on the opposing sideline. At one point it looked as if Skattebo was still arguing with some of the players and holding out his hand for a shake that was not forthcoming. He eventually walked back to the offensive side.

One person who certainly wasn’t happy with the interaction was John Harbaugh.

“Skatt’s great,” Harbaugh said of his often revved up running back. “He does bring a lot of energy. But he did get a 15-yard penalty at the end of practice. That's not infectious. Well, it is infectious, actually. Infectious in a bad way, right? Like an infectious disease type of thing. We don't want that. We want it to be directed in a positive way.”

'Hard Knocks: Offseason' will return in 2027 and feature an entire NFL division

Once Joe Schoen and the Giants face-planted in the inaugural season of “Hard Knocks: Offseason” in 2024 — giving a behind-the-scenes look at the unsuccessful search for a quarterback and the departure of Saquon Barkley — it became nearly impossible to find another team willing to open its doors to the program during that time of year.

An entire division, though, is another story. And that’s what will happen in 2027 when HBO will film and air the second installment of its offseason reality show, this time focusing on four teams rather than just one. The announcement was made on Wednesday.

“Our fans are increasingly interested in how NFL rosters are built, as well as the people who build them,” said Ross Ketover, NFL Films’ senior executive. “With “Hard Knocks: moving to the offseason," we are excited to showcase the tireless work that happens across an entire division, from the moment a season ends to the minute training camp begins.”

There was no indication of which division would be subjected to the show. It probably won’t be the NFC East, though, since that division just participated in the in-season version during the second half of 2025. Still, it’s fun to imagine the Giants and Schoen getting a sequel with a chance to either rehabilitate their image with another offseason swing… or further sully it.

Mauigoa delivering in more ways than one

Rookie offensive lineman Sisi Mauigoa has made two key adjustments in training camp. Getting used to playing right guard and handling his first-year duties getting snacks for his veteran linemen.

Sometimes he’ll forget what each teammate likes to eat. But just like adjusting from playing tackle in college, he’s gotten better with that.

“[Andrew Thomas'] snack of choice is honey buns,” Mauigoa said. “A lot of the guys like hot honey Cheerios. [Lucas Patrick] likes his sweets, Sour Patches. It’s just varieties of it. Nutty Buddies.”

Being the snack deliverer has helped Mauigoa bond with his teammates. So has playing well in a new position. He’s asking constant questions and developing better chemistry with center John Michael Schmitz and tackle Jermaine Eluemunor,

Mauigoa also returned to practice on Wednesday after missing the last two days with a stinger. While he’s getting more comfortable at guard, he doesn’t want to just be solid in his first season or beyond. He's eyeing bigger standards.

“My whole goal is to not just to make it playing guard, but I want to be the best at playing guard,” Mauigoa said. “It’s a natural instinct for linemen or players to want to be the best at their position.”

Giants looking to add some beef in middle of defensive line

While the Giants have been whittling off some excess offensive linemen in the past week by trading guards Daniel Faalele and Josh Ezeudu for future picks, they are definitely looking to add to the opposite side of the ball and beef up a defensive middle that is still trying to fill the absence of Dexter Lawrence.

“We're always going to be looking to elevate the room, and we're always going to analyze what's out there,” assistant GM Brandon Brown said on Wednesday. “If you see or hear a name, trust me, we've done our due diligence and are just finding the right striking point.”

In other words: Expect the team to explore trades and waiver wire additions to bring in help there.

“It's about not shopping hungry,” Brown said of the Giants not wanting to overspend on the position but also “knowing that we can shop at the right time and invest at the right moment.”

Nabers leaves practice early with trainer but Harbaugh doesn't seem concerned

Malik Nabers went through another full workload of team drills without the non-contact jersey. But he left practice about 20 minutes before it ended to head in the locker room with a trainer.

John Harbaugh said it wasn't part of Nabers' rehab plan to leave early but didn't think it was injury related.

"We talked afterward, we always get the injury report right after," Harbaugh said about speaking with the training staff. "There was no talk about Malik that way.”

Harbaugh added that tight end Theo Johnson suffered a shoulder injury after colliding with Kayvon Thibodeaux on Monday. Johnson didn't practice Wednesday for the second straight day but Harbaugh said "he's going to be fine."

Defensive tackle Shelby Harris didn't participate in team drills Wednesday and Harbaugh said it's a part of the Giants managing his reps. Harris, 35, is the Giants' oldest player.

Giants have remained mostly healthy throughout camp

There are times during Giants practices when members of the medical staff are so bored they can be seen using the various tools of their trade on each other. The team bought all that fancy equipment so someone should at least get some use out of it. The players certainly haven’t been as the rehab groups throughout the summer have been remarkably small.

Assistant general manager Brandon Brown credited that to the implementation of sports science and the use of technology to track player reps and workloads, but also to some old-fashioned psychology too.

“Guys don't want to miss practice because they understand the floor is being raised and you missing practice is an opportunity, frankly, for someone else to take your job,” Brown said. “You see it in real time. It's not just lip service. You've seen rotations of players getting reps with the ones now getting reps with the twos, guys that were fringed twos now getting reps with the ones.”

That “meritocracy” starts with John Harbaugh, Brown said, who has instilled it to the point that in each position room hangs a sign that tells the players to “earn the right.”

“It's earning the trust of the coaches, earning the trust of your teammates, earning the trust of the building,” Brown said. “It's not that you physically look like the job description. It's can you handle it and process it and execute it.”

Giants' kicking competition still undecided going into final preseason game

The Giants’ fierce kicking competition has yet to be resolved as roster cuts loom on Sunday, and Wednesday’s final practice of the preseason did little to sway it.

Ben Sauls and rookie Dominic Zvada took turns booming long field goals while the rest of the team looked on, rooting for them to attempt further ones. At one point they each attempted a 69-yarder which, had it happened in a game, would have broken the NFL regular-season record of 68 set by Cam Little last season. Zvada appeared to have the distance but pulled his a bit left while Sauls was short and right.

Each of the other kicks by each were good from every other distance, though, including some that were launched from beyond midfield. At one point each of the kickers was even iced by a timeout.

“To see them both make 60-plus yarders in a contest was pretty fun,” John Harbaugh said.

The Giants’ record for longest field goal is 57 yards shared by Graham Gano and Aldrick Rosas.

Whomever the Giants decide to give the job to this weekend there would seem to be a good chance that mark is toppled at some point in 2026. The preseason NFL record is 70 set by Little last summer while Harrison Butker kicked a 69-yarder just last week. There is a chance the Giants could attempt something in that range on Friday night in their preseason finale against the Jets.

“I think we've got two guys in this building that have performed very well, two guys that we believe in,” special teams coordinator Chris Horton said of the position battle on Tuesday. “Two guys that we know that whoever wins that job, whoever we put out there, will be the right guy for this team.”

To play the starters, or not play the starters? That remains the question.

John Harbaugh stayed consistent with his plan to not reveal if his starters would play in the preseason or not. So it'll remain a mystery who comes on the field first against the Jets in the team's preseason finale on Friday night.

“There would be things to be gained for those guys to play... from a communication standpoint,” Harbaugh said. “But there’s risk and it’s just the balancing act of what would gain the most for the least amount of risk.”

If the starters don’t play, they’d go nearly a month without game action between the preseason opener Aug. 15 and the season opener Sept. 13. Jaxson Dart and the starting offense played two series against the Vikings but most of the Giants starters on were held out last week in Miami.

Typically, teams play their veterans more in the third and final game as one last dress rehearsal before the season. But teams also have held out players to avoid risking injury so close to the start of the season.

There’s also a need for the Giants to get more game reps playing in new systems. Harbaugh is taking all of that into consideration while also deciding if it’s better to err on the side of caution.

“How much is six plays, 10 plays? How much is that really worth,” Harbaugh asked. “That’s part of the whole balancing act.”

Giants add two players

The Giants signed WR Kobe Prentice and TE Josiah Deguara on Wednesday. Prentice, who went undrafted this spring, was waived earlier this week by the Patriots.

Deguara has played six seasons with the Packers, Cardinals and Jaguars. Both players are present at practice today.

Source confirms Austin tore ACL, ending season

Giants wide receiver Calvin Austin III suffered a torn ACL in practice Tuesday, a league source confirmed to Newsday. Austin’s season is over, a brutal end to a player on a one-year deal.

The Giants expected to use Austin in multiple ways given his speed and experience playing in the slot and at punt returner. Braxton Berrios could now fill that role in the slot.

But it opens the door for Odell Beckham Jr. to find a way on the 53-man roster. Austin will be likely be placed on injured reserve, which means he won’t count against the roster limit.

Malik Nabers, Malachi Fields, Darius Slayton, Darnell Mooney and Braxton Berrios are locks to make the team at receiver. Berrios will also be the Giants’ kick returner. That means Beckham has a great chance to be the team’s sixth receiver.

It doesn’t eliminate how terrible the news is for Austin. Yet it could mean a path for Beckham to make the team, especially if he can perform well in Friday’s preseason finale with the Jets.

Giants trade o-lineman Ezeudu, acquire future 7th-round pick from Kansas City

The Giants traded offensive lineman Josh Ezeudu on Tuesday to Kansas City for a seventh-round draft pick in 2028, a league source confirmed to Newsday.

Ezeudu, drafted in third round in 2022, struggled with inconsistency moving from guard to tackle and missed all of last season due to a calf injury. Ezeudu moved back to guard during training camp and played in Saturday’s preseason win in Miami

Ezeudu is the second lineman the Giants traded this month after sending Daniel Faalele to the Jaguars for a sixth round pick in 2027. John Harbaugh said Monday that he was both pleased with his offensive line depth and how the front office is being aggressive acquiring draft capital.

“Any time you can add picks, it's a valuable thing,” Harbaugh said. “It's a future thing. Doesn't seem like much now, but it'll matter day three of the draft. It'll be something that we'll be happy we've got.”

Injury updates: Another step for Malik Nabers

Malik Nabers participated in more team drills Tuesday with the Giants in pads. He was also third in order during receiving drills, a step up from typically being near the back of the line with Beckham.

Some additional observations from Tuesday's practice:

• Offensive linemen Sisi Mauigoa and Jermaine Eluemunor were back in individual drills Tuesday but neither participated in team drills for the second straight day. Aaron Stinnie again filled in for Mauigoa at guard while Marcus Mbow lined up at tackle.
• Tight end Theo Johnson was not seen after his collision with Kayvon Thibodeaux on Monday. Offensive lineman Josh Ezeudu and receiver Jalin Hyatt also weren’t seen at practice.
• Defensive tackle Shelby Harris left practice and headed into the locker room unaccompanied by training staff.

Tracy not worried about his spot in RB pecking order

Tyrone Tracy Jr. didn’t sound worried about his standing in the Giants’ running back room, not even after his second straight preseason game with a miscue.

Tracy fumbled on a drive in Saturday’s preseason win. It overshadowed two previous plays where he ran for 11 and 12 yards and came after a missed block two weeks ago that led to Jaxson Dart being sacked.

Tracy took accountability for both plays Tuesday but tried to keep them in perspective.

“A lot of people really just look at the last two weeks and just see two bad plays, which is the big news,” said Tracy. “That’s everything that’s going on right now. But when you actually look at the game. I feel like I had a good game.”

The consequences are hard to avoid. Tracy went from being considered a co-lead running back with Cam Skattebo to fighting harder to stay in the pecking order. Najee Harris. who joined the Giants last week, took more first-team reps Tuesday as he works his way back into football shape.

Tracy, meanwhile, has taken on special-teams reps in practice. It’s not a demotion, since he’s still in the running back rotation, but it’s a sign his job is more at risk despite having over 1,000 scrimmage yards in his first two seasons.

Tracy, however, wasn't concerned. He embraced Harris’ arrival instead of seeing it as a statement about his performance.

“I don’t feel like my job was threatened at all,” he said. “I feel like you need the best players in your room. It doesn’t matter who they are, what names they got. You want the best complete team. You want to win.”

John Harbaugh said Sunday that one or two bad plays doesn’t nullify a whole career. He praised Tracy for improving his pass protection in the second game along with his good plays.

“You don't hold it against him,” Harbaugh said. “At the same time, you understand how valuable and important those things are to your football team, and he knows as well. So, it's just a balancing act that way.”

That said, Tracy’s place in the running back rotation is less stable than a month ago. It adds more intrigue not just to Friday’s preseason game with the Jets but also the season opener on Sept. 13.

But Tracy wasn’t deterred. He kept his confidence while acknowledging he has to play better given the extra competition Harris has added.

“I gotta take care what I need to take care of and the rest will just level itself out,” Tracy said. “I think when the smoke clears up and everything is done, I think I’ll be where I want to be.”

Calvin Austin III carted off with knee injury

Giants wide receiver Calvin Austin III left Tuesday's practice on a cart after going down with a non-contact injury to his right knee.

Austin was in one-on-one drills when he made a cut on his route and immediately fell to the ground. Practice was delayed as teammates gathered around him before he was taken off the field.

After Austin left, several teammates formed a prayer circle before resuming one-on-one-drills.

“My heart breaks for my man Cal because you see all the good stuff he’s been doing,” running back Tyrone Tracy said. “When you see him in practice, after practice, in the film room, he's a locker room dude . . .  [Injuries are] literally the worst part of football.”

It's a tough blow for Austin, who signed a one-year, $1.5 million deal with the Giants in March after spending his first three seasons with Pittsburgh. He was a near-lock to make the 53-man roster, and the Giants planned to use him in a variety of ways besides in the slot.

Austin caught a 20-yard pass, had a 21-yard run and returned a punt 18 yards in Saturday’s preseason win over the Dolphins,

John Harbaugh didn't address the injury since he wasn't scheduled to speak with media Tuesday, but he'll speak Wednesday with an expected update. If Austin is diagnosed with a serious injury, it opens the door for another receiver to make the team.

Braxton Berrios took over Austin’s reps in the slot Tuesday, and Odell Beckham Jr. took more first-team reps as part of a strong day for the veteran receiver.

"I think naturally you always think the worst when something like that happens, but we don't know," offensive coordinator Matt Nagy said after practice. "I don't know. So, all I'm going to do is go in there and tell him I love him, and I appreciate everything about him and I hope he's okay."

Injury updates on the O-line

Giants rookie guard Francis Mauigoa remained out Monday after the injury he suffered in last Thursday's joint practie with the Dolphins. He watched most of practice from the sidelines.

Right tackle Jermaine Eluemunor missed practice for an undisclosed reason. Marcus Mbow filled in for Eluemunor while Aaron Stinnie substituted for Mauigoa. Harbaugh said Eluemunor should return to practice Tuesday and he expects the same for Mauigoa.

Guard Joshua Ezuedu also didn’t practice after Harbaugh said he was day-to-day following being kicked in the back of his leg Saturday.

Giants' leadership council features 8 players

John Harbaugh has had a leadership council since his days coaching the Baltimore Ravens. His Giants version of that council seemed to be revealed Monday when he met with eight players after practice.

Harbaugh spoke with Andrew Thomas, Jaxson Dart, Jevon Holland, Jordan Stout, Brian Burns, Jameis Winston, Tremaine Edmunds and Chris Manhertz. The meeting was mostly about schedule logistics and "in-house stuff."

Harbaugh said those players were elected to the council by their teammates. Four offensive players (Dart, Thomas, Winston, Manhertz), three on defense (Burns, Holland and Edmunds) and one on special teams with Stout as a punter.

"There were a lot of other guys that got votes too but those were the guys that got the most votes,” Harbaugh said.

It's something that happened with the Ravens where Harbaugh began with a team that had Hall of Famers Ed Reed and Ray Lewis, who set a tone every day with their voices and ability. With the Giants, the council offered a glimpse of who commands the most respect on the team.

Burns, Thomas and Dart weren't surprises given their stature. Winston and Manhertz are two of the older Giants. Holland was a longtime captain with the Dolphins before the Giants signed him last year.

Edmunds settled in at middle linebacker following the team signing him this offseason. Stout made the All-Pro first team last season on the Ravens.

Harbaugh noted, though, that his council aren't the only leaders he wants to see develop on this team. But those eight carry weight that they'll shoulder throughout the season.

“I do try to emphasize to the team that everybody’s a leader and everybody has every opportunity to speak their mind,” Harbaugh said.

Another major step forward for Malik Nabers

Malik Nabers passed another on-field milestone in his recovery when he participated in Giants team drills Monday without wearing a non-contact jersey.

Nabers played 13 snaps, some consecutive and some not, and made six catches, including a diving grab at one point. His first six snaps were running plays before Nabers was targeted on his seventh snap. He also had a pass go off his hands.

The Giants were in shells instead of full pads so Nabers wasn’t bumped around much. But it was good enough to hint he’s possibly trending to play in the Giants’ season opener even if John Harbaugh avoided saying so.

“I just don’t want to make any kind of statements like that. I think it’s reasonable to assume that,” Harbaugh said. “Those are all kind of things you can assume. It’s just based on watching the guy practice.

Harbaugh added that Monday saw Nabers “moving the best we’ve seen him look”. When the team moves to full pads Tuesday, Nabers will be open to more contact but in a reasonable way to make sure the team protects each other ahead of Friday’s preseason finale with the Jets.

Any progress is good progress and Nabers shedding the non-contact jersey means he’s ready to do more to get ready if he’s cleared to play by Sept. 13 against the Cowboys.

“He’s doing real well with that,” Harbaugh said of Nabers’ rehab. “He’s strong. He’s in a good place. But how he gets through practice, how ready he is to play and protect himself, is really based on practice.”

Theo Johnson collides with Thibodeaux, leaves practice early

Giants tight end Theo Johnson left Monday's practice early after colliding with Kayvon Thibodeaux. Johnson was slow to get up and seemed angry leaving the field. But he walked to the locker room on his own power after being tended to by the team's training staff.

John Harbaugh said he thinks Johnson would be OK. He didn't get an initial report back that the injury was serious but he'd find out more later.

Giants waive Miller, but WR still a crowded position

The Giants waived receiver Ryan Miller on Monday morning. Miller played in Saturday's preseason win but has mostly been on third-team duty and special teams.

The team still has a logjam at receiver to sort out ahead of Sunday's deadline to trim the roster to 53 players. They currently have 11 receivers on the roster, and it's likely that Braxton Berrios will slot at returner.

Malik Nabers, Darius Slayton, Darnell Mooney, Calvin Austin III and rookie Malachi Fields are the likely roster locks. That means it'll be critical this week for Odell Beckham Jr. to make a late push if he hopes to make the team. Jalin Hyatt likely is facing the end of his Giants tenure as the fourth-year WR has been a non-factor in camp.

Could Nabers shed non-contact jersey this week?

Instead of seeing red, Malik Nabers could finally see blue this week — as in a blue Giants jersey in team drills.

John Harbaugh said Sunday that it’s a “possibility” Nabers could shed the red non-contact jersey he’s worn in his last three practices. That would open Nabers up to more contact in drills, which would be a final hurdle before he’s cleared to play in a regular-season game.

However, Harbaugh cautioned that it all depends on Nabers’ surgically repaired knee, and the team isn’t rushing anything.

“I don’t think it’s a necessity this week,” Harbaugh said. “We’re still three weeks out from the first game . . . we’ll see where he’s at this week. We’ll see how he feels [Monday].”

Nabers first wore the non-contact jersey on Aug. 13. On Tuesday, he wore it while playing consecutive snaps for the first time in 7-on-7 drills. The Giants held him out of last Thursday’s joint practice due to not being able to control the environment around him.

But based on Harbaugh’s comments, it appears Nabers’ ramp-up process is close to ready for more work. Harbaugh said last week Nabers has to face contact before he plays in a game.

The Giants aren’t committed to having him ready by Week 1, but he’s yet to have any setbacks in training camp. The team has three practices this week before Friday’s preseason finale against the Jets.

Nabers certainly won’t play that night. If he can practice without the red jersey, it’ll a good sign for his health as the season approaches. But neither he nor Harbaugh are rushing the process.

“I'm taking each step accordingly and just making sure my body feels good with taking the next step week by week, or day by day, or whatever they want to do,” Nabers said last week.

Injury updates on Mauigoa, Hood and Ezeudu

John Harbaugh said that rookie guard Francis Mauigoa and cornerback Colton Hood will be back in practice this week after not playing Saturday.

Mauigoa was out after suffering a “stinger” in last Thursday’s joint practice with the Dolphins. Hood hadn’t practiced since last Monday due to an unknown injury.

Guard Joshua Ezeudu left Saturday’s game after being kicked in the back of the leg. Harbaugh said Ezeudu is “day-to-day” and the injury isn’t expected to be a longterm one.

Rookie guard Davis impresses with sizable opportunity

Rookie offensive lineman J.C. Davis had a strong showing in Saturday’s preseason win. Davis, a sixth-round pick, played all 81 snaps at left tackle with Andrew Thomas held out.

That was by design, Harbaugh said. The coaching staff decided earlier in the week to give Davis a heavy load to see how he performed and get him comfortable with the ability to do it.

Davis and the rest of the Giants' offensive line did not allow any sacks by the Dolphins.

“He did it well,” Harbaugh said. “He had a lot of plus plays, he graded out very well and that's a big step in his development for sure. Also in us gaining confidence in his ability to go in there and do good things in a game.”

While Davis likely won’t get many reps in-season with Thomas healthy and Marcus Mbow used as a swing tackle, his play made a strong pitch for a final roster spot.

Takeaways from the Giants' win over Miami

John Harbaugh will address reporters later today on a Zoom call. For now, here's some takeaways from the Giants' preseason win in Miami on Saturday.

• Jameis Winston finished 15-for-21 passing with 150 yards and no interceptions. There’s no doubt the Giants feel comfortable about their backup quarterback situation behind Jaxson Dart. Winston played clean and even showed off his legs on an 11-yard touchdown run.
• Expect more blitzing from the secondary this season. Dru Phillips had his forced fumble coming off a blitz. Defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson wants his defensive backs to be physical, and that includes using them to make plays in the backfield.
• The running back pecking order remains fluid. Tyrone Tracy’s fumble without being hit hurt what should’ve been a great day running the ball. Najee Harris wasn’t signed to be a spectator. Friday’s preseason game with the Jets will be another indicator where Tracy stands if Skattebo starts and Harris takes a few snaps.
• Rookie left tackle J.C. Davis played the entire game (81 snaps) and helped keep a clean pocket for his quarterbacks. It was a strong statement that the sixth-round pick should make the roster.
• Darius Alexander had a great pass rush that forced a near sack in the third quarter. But on the next play, he was taken down to the ground while the Dolphins ran the ball to their left side. That’s why the Giants have played him heavy snaps in both preseason games. They need more consistency from the second-year defensive tackle who has great potential yet needs more great production.
• If anybody needs a great game Friday, it’s Odell Beckham Jr. He still can get open and create separation. But in two games, he hasn’t shown enough to make an impact and a missed touchdown catch Saturday will linger as a what-if moment. Another game at MetLife Stadium could be a last chance to show why he deserves a roster spot.

Harbaugh gets first win . . . and yes we know it's preseason

The Giants earned their first preseason win in the John Harbaugh era by defeating the Dolphins 26-3 in Miami. It was a dominant performance despite resting multiple starters on both sides of the ball.

The defense pitched a shutout in the second half, Ben Sauls converted two field goals after halftime to match Dominic Zvada's two field goals in the first half and Beau Brade recovered a fumble after the Giants' final punt of the game. The Giants finished with 390 yards after overwhelming a Dolphins team that they dominated in a joint practice earlier this week.

The Giants will wrap up the preseason Friday against the Jets at MetLife Stadium.

Watch: Giants CBs do drills

A training camp road less traveled now

The last time the Giants went away for training camp, it was an NFL norm. That was back in 2012, fresh off their last Super Bowl victory, when they bid farewell to the University at Albany where they had spent most of their summers since 1996 (the exception was 2011 they held training camp at their new home facility at the Meadowlands, mainly because the lockout had prevented adequate planning for the preseason).

"I'm thinking, wow, this is an opportunity for a young team with a new staff to spend 10, 12 days together in West Virginia in the hills, you know, and just be about football for 10, 12 days together and eat dinner together and have an off day together, all the things that you kind of do to just bond and get to know each other," Harbaugh said in the spring when the Giants announced they would be going to West Virginia. "If it can help our team become closer, I think that's a good thing... I see all the reasons for getting away from it. It makes a lot of sense. There is something about it that's really a helpful part of it, too. So that's kind of probably why I'm excited about seeing how it goes and trying it."

This year, as they embark to the Greenbrier Resort in West Virginia, they are something of a football anomaly.

The 2026 Giants are one of just six teams that will hold a significant portion of their training camp away from their regular-season facility. The only others are:

• Bills (St. John Fisher University in Rochester, N.Y.)
• Cowboys (Oxnard, Calif.)
• Colts (Grand Park in Westfield, Ind.)
• Kansas City (Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph, Mo.)
• Steelers (St. Vincent College in Latrobe, Pa.).

The Rams will technically be “away” at Loyola Marymount University, but that location is within the Los Angeles city limits so not really on the road.

The 26 teams that are staying home are tied with 2021 and 2025 for the most in any year since 2000, excluding the 2020 pandemic season when all 32 teams held training camps at their own facilities. Covid seemed to be a turning point for training camp because prior to it there was typically a half to a third of the teams that went away for their summer work. Since then there haven’t been more than eight that have done it in any single season.

Per the NFL, here is a look at the number of teams that have stayed at home for training camp each season since 2000:

2000: 10 of 31 (32%)
2001: 9 of 31 (29%)
2002: 10 of 32 (31%)
2003: 14 of 32 (44%)
2004: 15 of 32 (47%)
2005: 17 of 32 (53%)
2006: 15 of 32 (47%)
2007: 16 of 32 (50%)
2008: 15 of 32 (47%)
2009: 17 of 32 (53%)
2010: 17 of 32 (53%)
2011: 19 of 32 (59%)
2012: 19 of 32 (59%)
2013: 20 of 32 (63%)
2014: 20 of 32 (63%)
2015: 21 of 32 (66%)
2016: 20 of 32 (63%)
2017: 21 of 32 (66%)
2018: 21 of 32 (66%)
2019: 22 of 32 (69%)
2020: 32 of 32 (100%)
2021: 26 of 32 (81%)
2022: 25 of 32 (78%)
2023: 25 of 32 (78%)
2024: 24 of 32 (75%)
2025: 26 of 32 (81%)
2026: 26 of 32 (81%)

Reps on reps on reps

John Harbaugh's practices are notorious for being grueling and tough. The Giants got their first taste of that running a lot of reps Wednesday at their first practice.

For Harbaugh, the grind is about being ready for Sept. 13 when the team opens the season. So even this early, he's evaluating how the Giants look even while practicing without pads.

"We're chasing execution," Harbaugh said. "We're at the stage now we're getting ready for the games. I mean, that's that's what practice is for...We're here to prepare for the games that we're going to play. The plays we call, how we practice, all those things. We're not just running plays out here to run plays . . . that's why we want to keep our plays to ourselves. So that's what we're evaluating, to execute."

The Giants have three more days of practice before a day off Sunday, then they have six straight days of practice at The Greenbrier before flying back to East Rutherford. It's a lot, but remember: the Giants have started flat in their last three season openers. They lost all three without scoring a touchdown.

If revving the engine up early on can change that, then it's all good (as long as it doesn't lead to any injuries). But Harbaugh has support from his players, including All-Pro linebacker Brian Burns. He appreciates Harbaugh expecting players to be prepared, be on time and come ready to work without excuses.

As for Harbaugh's rep for tough practices? Burns welcomed it

"Camp's supposed to be hard. That's how it's supposed to be," Burns said. "We're definitely going to work and I'm looking forward to it."

Big ex-Giants, bigger bobbleheads

Giants add and subtract

The Giants made a pair of roster moves on Thursday, signing linebacker Anfernee Orji and waiving defensive lineman Ben Barten.

Orji was in uniform at practice Thursday. He tore his ACL last year in training camp with the Titans but that means he's familiar with Giants defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson, who was with the Titans last year. Barten was an undrafted free agent.

Takeaways and observations from Day 2 of camp

• Abdul Carter's strong practice highlighted a great day for the defense. Kayvon Thibodeaux tipped a Jameis Winston pass to himself for an interception and raced into the end zone.
• Along that note, Winston and Jaxson Dart had mixed days. Carter was constantly in the pocket forcing Dart to scramble. Dart also nearly threw an interception to Greg Newsome but Newsome dropped the pass.
• Tight end Theo Johnson had a nice leaping catch from quarterback Brandon Allen, but also dropped a pass from Dart, a reminder of his lingering issues that affected his second season.
• Fellow tight end Isaiah Likely had the catch of the day with a one-handed grab from Dart.
• There wasn't much kicking work but Dominic Zvada ended practice with a 57-yard field goal. Another good sign for the rookie trying to earn the starting job..

What in the world is the PUP list?

Players put on the active/physically unable to perform list — or PUP — at the start of training camp have football-related injuries, like those on IR, but count against the active 90-man roster.

These players can participate in all team activities other than practice and can be activated at any point during training camp when they are medically cleared. We've already seen several players for both the Giants and Jets who were placed on PUP last week be cleared prior to the teams' first full practices on Wednesday.

A player cannot be placed on the PUP list after he has practiced once or played in a preseason game.

Players on the active/PUP list at the end of the preseason must either be activated to the 53-man roster or moved to the reserve/PUP list during roster cutdowns.

If placed on the reserve/PUP list, a player does not count against the active roster but must miss at least four games.

A rule change this season allows these players to begin a 21-day practice window period after their team’s second regular-season game but he is still unable to join the active roster until after Week 5 of the regular season at the earliest.

Skattebo speaks about his backflip backlash

It didn't take long to remember why Cam Skattebo remains popular with Giants fans despite playing just eight games last season.

Before practice, he ran to the sidelines and gave out high-fives to every hand along the barrier while jogging downfield. It was endearing for a player who understands that he's "the people's guy."

"People say I'm the people's guy, so I'm gonna continue being the people's guy, and keep giving kids high fives," Skattebo said. "You never know when that kid's gonna cry because he got a high five for me. So, I'm gonna continue to be who I am, and you know, hopefully make everybody happy around me, and continue to be positive.”

That's why it was important he let everyone know what time it was Friday. The failed backflip at Fanatics Fest this summer brought headlines for being reckless just before training camp.

But Skattebo made clear that fun doesn’t supersede business and he wants to show he can be the same player he was before ankle surgery ended his rookie season.

“It’s time to play football,” Skattebo said after practice Friday at The Greenbrier.

Through three days, the second-year running back practiced full speed without limitations after not participating in team drills this spring. As Skattebo noted, next month will mark 10 months since his ankle surgery and he feels “99.9% okay.”

So what would it take to feel 100%?

“I think the 100% is when I put shoulder pads on and I'm able to hit someone,” Skattebo said. “That's when I’ll tell you I'm 100%.”

He took accountability for the backflip by saying he's done dumb things but he's learning from it and listening to conversations he's had with coach John Harbaugh. Now, it's about focusing on football and finding his role in Harbaugh and offensive coordinator Matt Nagy's run-heavy offense.

Does that mean no more backflips? At least not for now.

Skattebo said, "If a kid wants a backflip, he'll see the backflip when it's touchdown time."

Dart speaks, take a listen

Jaxson Dart knows that there's great expectations in Year 2 with the Giants. But he's not putting any more pressure on himself than needed.

For his first training camp as a starting quarterback, it's about keeping it simple. There's a new offense with coordinator Matt Nagy. There's developing timing with new receivers Darnell Mooney, Calvin Austin III and tight end Isaiah Likely. So managing expectations means keeping things simple

"I think that right now it's just growing each and every day. There's a lot that I've got to still learn," Dart said. "There are reps of things that I haven't really had a ton of experience doing. I'm taking it day by day. I'm trying to keep everything around me simple. From the things that I give my attention to, to my daily and study habits."

.@JaxsonDart speaks to the media at #Giants #trainingcamp. pic.twitter.com/OQRB7UoYlW

— Newsday Sports (@NewsdaySports) July 29, 2026

It's all a part of his development in year two as he grows into being a better quarterback. One of those things is taking more snaps under center instead of in the shotgun.

Dart didn't do it often in college or last season but he's getting more comfortable learning how to manage it.

"There are a few things mechanically that are different," he said. "Probably just the biggest thing is a little bit of footwork landmarks in the pocket. But we've repped the hell out of it, I'm feeling really good with the track that we're on and I'm feeling comfortable. It's not something out there when I'm on the field that I have to think extra about when I'm having a rep at a certain play.

Abdul Carter as a DPOY? Go for it!

WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, W.Va. -- Abdul Carter leaped in the air after beating Andrew Thomas to force pressure on quarterback Jaxson Dart on Thursday. Dart escaped to throw a pass but it would’ve been a sack under normal conditions.

He jumped and yelled an expletive at the defensive sideline. It was the third straight pressure Carter brought and he was clearly fired up.

Call it bold, brash or early training camp exuberance. But the Giants need that production and energy from their second-year linebacker and he knows it.

Maybe that’s why he has a bold goal for Year 2.

“I want to be Defensive Player of the Year, for sure.” Carter said Friday.

One might pause and question Carter’s gumption. But remember, this is the same player who wanted Lawrence Taylor’s No. 56 last season as a rookie and then appealed for Phil Simms’ No. 11, Carter’s college number.

OK, fine. This fits his style, having big goals. But we also remember people expected Carter to be Defensive Rookie of the Year. A reasonable goal as the No. 3 pick. A goal, however, that Carter didn’t reach partly because of his play and poor decision making that led to two first-quarter benchings.

It’s a reason to pump the brakes on any predictions. At the same time, Carter’s ambition is a good thing. He’s self-aware enough to be honest about where he must improve and he’s saying and doing the right things so far in camp.

“I learned a lot,” Carter said about his rookie year. “But I feel like everybody knows toward the end of the season, I started to really find my stride. I started to figure things out. I’m going to try to carry that out to Year 2.”

What did Carter figure out? How to get sacks. Starting with the Giants’ loss at the Patriots, the second game for which he was benched, he had a streak of four straight games with at least a half-sack.

Secondly, how to be a professional. Carter had no more incidents after being punished for being late to team meetings. After the Giants’ season-ending win over the Cowboys, he told the locker room that everyone should do what they can to avoid another 4-13 season.

Carter showed more maturity this offseason, responding to his social media denouncement of Dart introducing President Donald Trump at a rally. Carter didn’t back down from his words nor did he abandon his quarterback, whom he’s often praised for their strong relationship.

Whether you agree with Carter or Dart, you have to admire Carter’s poise. He didn’t hesitate or sound unsure of himself. He made clear points while focusing on team unity.

That’s the leadership you want in a first-round pick. Now more actions have to match words. Great practice plays must become great practice days. Find joy in repetition, not creating moments here and there.

So if he wants to chase Defensive Player of the Year, camp is where that starts. Games are where that’s proved. So far, Carter has earned positive reviews for his growth.

“He wants to be a good player, so when you have that drive, you just have to get it going in the right direction,” Thomas said.

“You just learn as you go. He’s a young kid, he’s going to learn, he’s going to get even better, so I’m excited to see him play.”

Coach John Harbaugh was impressed that Carter came to him and said he wants to be more consistent. Harbaugh responded by saying the Giants want to use him in more ways besides rushing the passer. Play the run. Cover for teammates when offensive players are in motion.

If Carter wants to be that guy next to All-Pro Brian Burns — prove it.

“Come out here every day and do everything well all the time,” Harbaugh said. “That’s what he’s chasing. Chase perfection. That’s what he’s chasing.

“Can you achieve perfection? Maybe not all the time, but you can certainly do it some of the time.”

And what does Carter think? Challenge accepted.

“Everybody knows who I can be as a pass rusher,” he said. “I feel like for me to really take that next step and be who I want to be is me being consistent and applying everything.”

For the record, only three players won the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in their second season. Luke Kuechly, J.J. Watt and . . . Lawrence Taylor.

But if Carter wants the NFL’s top defensive honor — go for it. It’ll keep him motivated to improve on the field as a player and leader. It’ll also remind the Giants why they believed he’s their pass rusher of the future who can also impact the present.

“I know what I’m capable of,” Carter said.

“And I know if I put the work in and believe in myself, trusting myself, trust in my teammates, trust in my coaches, I can be whoever I want to be.”

Fans start arriving to camp

And the football gods said. “Let there be fans.”

Fans have started arriving for the Giants’ second day of practice, the first open practice to the public. Plenty of Giants jerseys and happy faces here in West Virginia. Some fans even showed up well before the official start of practice at 1:30.

There's also a DJ greeting fans with loud music right next to the media tent. It’s definitely a different vibe than yesterday’s serene energy. A sampling of the set list: "Moscow Mule" by Bad Bunny; "Goodies" by Ciara; "Yeah" by Usher; "Hips Don't Lie" by Shakira and Wyclef Jean; "Senorita" by Justin Timberlake; and "Pink Pony Club" by Chappell Roan mixed over "Bojangles" by Pitbull.

Dart interactions with young fans following practice

Observations from Day 1 of camp

• Ben Sauls converted 4 of 5 field goals. Dominic Zvada was 3 for 5. Both converted from 48 and 51 yards. The kicker competition will be one of the key battles to watch. A reminder. Sauls was signed at the end of last year and Zvada is a rookie. Not a lot of experience but the pressure is on to produce.
• Rookie WR Malachi Fields made a leaping catch on a pass from Jameis Winston. It reminded that his catch radius is wide and he has the potential to catch a lot thrown his way.
• The best play of the day goes to WR Braxton Berrios. He caught a long touchdown pass from Winston that had the offense going wild from behind the huddle before mobbing Berrios in the end zone.
• New LB Tremaine Edmunds tipped a pass from Jaxson Dart that was nearly intercepted but rookie LB Arvell Reese and safety Ar'Darius Washington collided. It reminded that Edmunds and Reese are both long, lanky defenders covering the middle of the field.

The fans are ready for Day 3 of practice

Nabers doesn't practice, but there's no reason to worry

Malik Nabers didn't practice on Friday and John Harbaugh said that was part of the Giants' plan for the wide receiver with his rehab. Nabers didn't have setbacks the first two days doing individual drills but it was something the Giants prepared for with his recovery.

"I'd say it's part of the process. Just got to go work through it," Harbaugh said. "And every single day will be what it is, that given day. He’s working real hard. Made a lot of progress and that's what we decided to do today."

6 observations from the first week of Giants training camp

1. Cam Skattebo and Tyrone Tracy will get a lot of looks for the No. 1 running back.

It's an intriguing battle but it may not matter who starts Week 1 if both backs get a healthy diet of carries.

2. Tight end Isaiah Likely is fitting in quite well as a favorite target for Jaxson Dart.

With Malik Nabers not yet in team drills, it has given Likely a great chance to build chemistry and it's shown being a big presence down the middle.

3. Darius Alexander's interception to end Day 3 of practice wasn't just a flash.

The second-year defensive tackle is getting his share of first-team reps. Yes, the Giants loaded up at that position signing DJ Reader, Shelby Harris and others, but there's an opportunity for Alexander to make a name for himself.

4. The Giants' offense has struggled so far.

Dart has looked a bit more flustered, and the defensive front is getting good pressure. I'm not as worried about it since training camp is where mistakes should happen. Dart is learning a whole new system and playing under center more. This is where the kinks need to be ironed out but there's time to work on that. But on the flip side...

5. Abdul Carter and Brian Burns have been great getting pressure.

Kayvon Thibodeaux has looked great being disruptive on the second team. Harbaugh said he believes he has three starting outside linebackers and all three have made an impact so far.

6. Rookie WR Malachi Fields has flashed some good things.

He's not just a big target, his catch radius is impressive when you throw him the ball. With Nabers out, every receiver needs to prove they can make plays and Fields is showing potential there.

WR Slayton says Harbaugh is 'what we needed'

Darius Slayton was held out of spring ball due to a sports hernia surgery. So it's been a good to see the team's longest tenured player at practice this week catching passes without a problem or any limitations.

Saturday was his first time speaking with the media since January and he reminded quickly why he's one of the more thoughtful players in the locker room. A sampling of his quotes today.

On the changes in the wide receiver room adding Odell Beckham Jr., Juju Smith-Schuster and Braxton Berrios: "There's a lot of really good football players in our room now, and definitely from a competition-level standpoint, it's awesome. I mean, obviously I literally just missed Odell on the front end. He almost felt like a fake unicorn mythical creature that departed before I came."

Does John Harbaugh fit what Slayton was looking for as a Tom Coughlin-esque coach?: "I would say so...I feel like he's in that echelon, that elk. He obviously came from arguably one of the most old-school divisions in football...I definitely think he's what we needed. There's definitely been a sense of accountability off the rip, which has been huge for us."

Slayton also clarified his sports hernia surgery was on both legs and he played through it the whole last season. He didn't want to cut his season short with surgery so he just got through it.
"I'm not a big excuse person," Slayton said. "So, at the end of the day, I could have played better regardless, but obviously it's different when maybe you're used to being able to catch the ball a little easier. You're having to strain a little more and maybe come up an inch short here or there. But at the end of the day if you're out there, you've got to make it happen."

Tracy OK with lack of attention

Tyrone Tracy knows most Giants fans and football fans are in love with Cam Skattebo — even though Tracy was the more productive running back last season.

It doesn't bother him. Tracy might be overlooked despite having two seasons with over 1,000 scrimmage yards to start his career. He's focused on the bigger picture.

"I know for a fact that I could just chill and relax and allow God to work in my life," Tracy told reporters Monday. "So, when you say [Skattebo] gets all the attention, I really don't care about that, to be honest. I'm about football. About what I do on the field, how I carry myself on the field and off the field as well."

Skattebo and Tracy have taken their share of first-team reps so far in camp. With John Harbaugh's run-heavy offense, both will get a strong amount of carries along with Jaxson Dart running the ball.

But Tracy said there's no issues with him or Skattebo. They complement each other well, and Tracy appreciates how he and Skattebo drive each other to be better on and off the field.

"It's not necessarily like me against him, but best believe that I'm going to push him to be the best that he can be," Tracy said. "And he's going to push me to be the best that I can be each and every day. Whether it's running the ball, passing, blocking, being a good teammate."

Will Harbaugh's tougher practices translate to wins?

One thing that’s stood out so far from Giants camp is the pace of it. There’s a lot more live reps with full team drills whether it’s 11-on-11 or 7-on-7 work.

That’s the way coach John Harbaugh wants it. Training camp, he said, is about “preparing for the games that we’re going to play.” For right tackle Jermaine Eluemunor, it’s exactly what he remembers spending his first two seasons with Harbaugh in Baltimore.

“Harbs is really trying to get the most out of everyone while obviously staying within the rules,” Eluemunor told Newsday. “I like these type of practices. I’ve been here for a while. These practices are real. Like, get down to the point. Let’s practice what we’re actually gonna run during the season and get good at it instead of just running a bunch of crap.”

It’ll be more intense starting Monday, the first padded practice of training camp. It starts six consecutive practice days in West Virginia. But the Giants need that, especially if Harbaugh’s reputation for tough practices leads to a better start..

In their last three season openers, the Giants scored 12 combined points with zero touchdowns. They were shut out 40-0 in 2023 by the Cowboys. They started 0-2 in 2024 and 0-3 last season.

To be fair, the Ravens didn’t start fast in recent years with Harbaugh. They were 1-5 last season and 0-2 in 2024. But they started 2-0 in 2023 and were 3-1 after four games.

Even if there’s no guarantee a tougher practice will work, the Giants needed a shakeup. Harbaugh’s training camp philosophy has been a welcome sight so far.

“We're not just running plays out here to run plays,” Harbaugh said. “That’s why we want to keep our plays to ourselves when we're doing them out here. So, that's what we're evaluating, is our execution.”

It’s why Eluemunor has enjoyed getting re-acquainted with Harbaugh’s style. Some young players might not be used to it. Even Eluemunor as a younger player said he wasn’t mature enough to handle it fully under Harbaugh.

But now? He’s ready and so are the Giants after their first four days getting acclimated to Harbaugh’s practice tempo.

“I feel like we’re putting that callous on our body now,” Eluemunor said. “So once we actually do put the shoulder pads on, it’s not going to be any drop off. We’re going to take off head first and go into deep waters.”

Beckham makes most of opportunity with first-team offense

When Odell Beckham Jr. warmed up last Friday, fans were yelling and cheering him like he was the Odell of old. But outside of a toe-tap touchdown catch later that day, Beckham has been mostly quiet with practice production.

That changed Tuesday. With Juju Smith-Schuster held out of practice for knee soreness and Darius Slayton held out of team periods for maintenance, Beckham got more first-team reps. Coach John Harbaugh said it just probably worked out for Beckham to get reps without saying if it was based on performance or merit.

Still, Beckham made a few plays showing he could contribute with the first-team offense.

"I think he's doing a good job," Harbaugh told reporters. "He's playing well. Everybody's working hard and so is he."

There's still questions if Beckham can make the team. Malik Nabers and Slayton are guarantees. Free agent signees Darnell Mooney and Calvin Austin III are as well. Rookie Malachi Fields has been impressive. That leaves Beckham, Smith-Schuster and Braxton Berrios leading a group that has to fight behind them.

Beckham isn't just exciting fans. He's got teammates in awe who grew up watching him when he was one of the NFL's best young receivers a decade ago.

"I literally just missed Odell on the front end," said Slayton, who was drafted by the Giants in 2019 a month after they traded Beckham to the Browns. "He almost felt like a fake unicorn mythical creature that departed before I came. And then here he is back on the team with me"

Nabers called it "surreal" that Beckham is his teammate. He called his fellow LSU product a great role model and leader that's also helped him deal with rehabbing after his ACL/meniscus surgeries.

"It's good having him around. He's always lifting me up," Nabers said last Thursday. "He'll always continue to call me, ask me how I feel, send me text messages, just motivation."

Jaxson Dart said similar things about Beckham being a mentor who's pouring into his teammates. It's one way Beckham's presence in camp has been a positive influence.

Until Tuesday, that influence was limited on the field. He made the most of his opportunity but now he's back to proving it wasn't just a cameo with Slayton and Smith-Schuster being limited.

"I think every time we line up against him, he looks good," cornerback Paulson Adebo told reporters Tuesday. "I grew up watching him as a youngin, so it's definitely cool to be able to go up against him. But yeah, he definitely looks like he looks ready."

Burns eyes first-team All-Pro

Brian Burns was happy to make the All-Pro second team last season. It was the first All-Pro selection of his career but it also fed some motivation entering this season.

"I got something else to work towards, trying to get first team," Burns said. "Just the goals just keep getting higher."

Burns raising his standards coincides with him getting more respect around the league. The NFL's Top 100 player list is at No. 37 after Tuesday and Burns hasn't been named yet. It's fair to assume he'll be on the list somewhere and that he'll be the only Giants player listed.

It's a reminder of how Burns has been a bright spot despite two bad Giants seasons. It's also left him unsatisfied since he knows there's more he can do to affect winning. More eyes around the league are watching Burns, and he's determined to prove why as he leads this Giants defense that must improve this season.

"There's still a lot of meat left on the bone, so you got to keep working," Burns said.

Harbaugh to Hood: Be safe out there

John Harbaugh called rookie cornerback Colton Hood a pitbull when he was drafted in April. Hood has shown that aggressive nature in training camp but Harbaugh has had to reign him in a bit. 

Hood broke up a pass on Friday intended for tight end Isaiah Likely. The contact sent Likely to the ground and Harbaugh admonished Hood that even though players can hit with pads, the goal is to not risk injury.

"It was more so just staying off the ground," Hood told reporters. "I'm competitive. Likely is a competitor. Our lockers are next to each other. Us competing out there, he was mostly telling me Likely is going to be a big part of the team this season. So, I can keep competing, just stay off the ground."

Hood's physical attitude is why Harbaugh thought in April he'd push the veterans in the room for a starting job. Hood isn't focusing on the depth chart yet but he has to learn to get better. Two things he's done is try to be better recognizing formations and having a better understanding of the playbook.

He's also peppering veteran receivers with questions. In the spring during OTAs, Odell Beckham Jr. used his savvy to blow by Hood on a route early. Since Beckham's locker is next to Hood, the rookie has often asked Beckham for pointers to improve just as much as Likely or anyone. 

It's left Hood in awe since he recalled being 12 years old watching Beckham's famous, one-handed Sunday Night Football touchdown catch. Now that he's a teammate, he's appreciating Beckham being another voice to help refine his skills.

"All those guys are definitely helping me grow as a player," Hood said. "Teaching me different savviness and different things that I'm doing that they're trying to exploit, or they're seeing that I can be better at. They've definitely been a big help in my development, and I'm enjoying getting to know those guys and being out here."

Punishment for penalties? Push-ups

Last week, the Giants' offense saw punishments for getting penalties. Jermaine Eluemunor and Tyrone Tracy were pulled out of play Thursday after pre-snap penalties. They eventually returned to action.

The defense did push-ups Saturday after practice, but it wasn't clear why. On Monday, it was revealed as a punishment for penalties after the defense had too many for defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson's liking.

"We do push-ups with penalties. We had four, but we've got to work out a system here," defensive tackle DJ Reader told reporters. "I think we get a turnover to get those 10 back. We've got 10 every penalty, so we had four today."

Discipline has been a talking point early in camp. The Giants can't avoid penalties, but they're learning how to limit them — or else they pay for it.

Coach John Harbaugh was fine with Wilson's rules but quibbled a bit with how the defense did their pushups.

"They don't go all the way up," Harbaugh told reporters. "You go all the way down, touch your chest on the ground, and you go all the way up and extend. But they kind of do this little, short push-up thing. "

Practice makes perfect? Giants sure hope so when it comes to late-game situations.

Fourth quarter play was one of several issues that plagued the Giants last season. They blew five fourth-quarter leads, including three double-digit leads.

It's hard not remembering that when watching the Giants practice two-minute drills during training camp. Coach John Harbaugh isn't making it an added priority, but it's something the team focuses on.

"There is a lot of fourth-quarter work, you've noticed probably. But also, we've always done that," Harbaugh said Saturday. "So, the situation stuff is whole, part, whole. We throw everything at them right away on every situation we can think of early."

It's also hard not remembering Harbaugh's Ravens had their own late-game issues. Last season, the Ravens blew a 15-point fourth quarter lead to the Bills. Since Harbaugh was hired in 2008, the Ravens blew 46 fourth-quarter leads, tied for second most in that span according to NFL.com.

It's something both Harbaugh and the Giants need to fix together. That's why it wasn't good on Tuesday at practice when Jaxson Dart scored a rushing touchdown late in a drill and drew a penalty tossing the ball at cornerback Greg Newsome.

The ensuing PAT was pushed back but Ben Sauls converted it. Things like that are why the Giants can't afford more late-game issues so it's good they get addressed now.

Harbaugh cited the Bears' seven fourth-quarter comebacks last season as an example of how good teams find ways to finish. The Giants don't need reminders after giving up a 10-point fourth-quarter lead in Chicago.

That's why last Friday, it was good seeing Darius Alexander make an interception to end practice. On Saturday, Dart and Jameis Winston each ran two-minute drills that ended with Dominic Zvada converting field goals.

Dart's silly penalty aside Tuesday, the Giants aim to get the message. Finish better in late-game situations in practice so you can do it when games count.

"We want to expose them to all those situations right out of the gate because those things are going to be things that actually win you games," Harbaugh said. "Those are game-winning play opportunities usually. So, we want to be as good as we can be at that stuff."

Adebo knows he needs to step it up

Paulson Adebo got the Giants' biggest free agent contract last season yet he knows his play at cornerback didn't meet his standard.

"Overall, not good enough, regardless of whatever circumstance is going on," Adebo told reporters Tuesday.

Adebo, who signed a three-year, $54 million deal, played 12 games due to injuries but had just one interception. It was his first season as a No. 1 corner yet he didn't make any excuses on his performance not meeting his standards.

He's had two interceptions so far in camp and he's credited new defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson's scheme as a positive change. Wilson's defense is more aggressive and allows corners to play in press coverage to be more physical with receivers.

It plays to Adebo's strengths and can disrupt offenses a bit, especially giving the defense more time to get to the quarterback. But it has to show up in games.

Adebo is being paid like a No. 1 corner and believes himself to be one. He just knows has to produce better in his second Giants season.

"There's more expectations, so there's more from the outside as far as being able to fulfill those expectations," he said. "But for me, personally, it's always been the same, trying to be the best in the league."

Beckham knows he has to prove himself, and that's just fine with him

John Harbaugh has players address the team before meetings every morning. He calls them "wise words." On Wednesday, it was Odell Beckham Jr.'s turn.

His message was simple. Yesterday's touchdown doesn't win you today's game. It sums up how Beckham is approaching this second chance with the Giants.

Beckham had a strong practice on Tuesday with the first team and another solid showing Wednesday. But he didn't want to rest on that because he knows making the roster requires consistent production, not just a few days.

"I was like, ‘I want to have an even better day tomorrow.’ And I feel like the whole team is carrying that mentality," Beckham told reporters Wednesday. "But personally for me, it's just about stacking those days. Just finding ways to build confidence, build confidence from within the team and myself included.

Beckham, who hasn't played in the NFL since 2024, is still popular with Giants fans who've seen him at practice. But fame won't guarantee a roster spot.

It's a new challenge for him, especially someone used to being a No. 1 receiver. But it's why he wanted the opportunity to prove himself that he could compete on his terms. Not by looking back at his past glory but looking ahead to build on each day's work.

"I'm all for competition. I've always been like that," Beckham said. "I feel like I rise to the occasion. And right now, I'm just trying to stay in the bag, you know what I mean? I'm trying to get better each and every day, know exactly what I’ve got to do, get open, catch the ball, score, get back to the game that I truly love, and I'm just grateful for the opportunity."

Pick-6 for Alexander!

Darius Alexander keeps having a great Giants camp so far.

The second-year defensive lineman had an interception Monday and returned it for a touchdown. Ar’Darius Washington helped by tipping Jaxson Dart’s pass, then Alexander caught it easily before running to the end zone.

Washington had an interception to end a practice in West Virginia that drew praise from John Harbaugh afterwards. Given the Giants loaded up on defensive tackles this offseason, Alexander has impressed as a returner making a play for first-team reps.

Giants DBs are fans of Wilson's aggressive style

What can the Giants expect from a Dennard Wilson-led defense? The new defensive coordinator laid out his principles in April with key words: Unpredictable. Dynamic. Decisive. Unapologetic.

Through training camp, the Giants are seeing more of what that looks like, especially in the secondary: more press coverage with cornerbacks jamming receivers close to the line of scrimmage to disrupt routes, and more shifting up front to hit gaps in the offensive line.

"Just being aggressive. Getting up and challenging people," cornerback Greg Newsome said. "This is something that I'm used to, something that I'm comfortable with."

Safety Tyler Nubin took it a step further. He believes this defense can create more turnovers. The Giants have been in the NFL's bottom 10 in takeaways the last two seasons, including 25th last season with 15 takeaways, one more than the Titans had with Wilson in charge.

From the back of the defense, Nubin sees a unit that can let the cornerbacks be more physical and make quarterbacks think twice about trying to throw over 6-4 linebackers Tremaine Edmunds and Arvell Reese.

"I think Dennard always has opportunistic defenses, looking back where he's been," he said. "Because they attack, and they make the offense think, gets them on their heels a little bit."

It helps the Giants have great edge rushers like Brian Burns and Abdul Carter leading the way. But if the defense is to improve, they need to fix two areas: stopping the run and creating more plays in the secondary.

For the second category, the defensive backs believe the changes Wilson is making can help lead to more stops. Especially Nubin, who has yet to record an interception in two seasons and has just three career pass deflections.

"We can have our eyes on the quarterback and really go attack the football," Nubin said. "So yeah, I think it's definitely going to give me a really good opportunity for sure."

Giants add a FB, waive a TE

The Giants added some fullback help by signing Grant Finley on Thursday, per the team. They also waived tight end Tyler Moore to make room for the signing.

Finley (6-4, 281 pounds) was in the Giants' rookie minicamp in May as an undrafted free agent out of Missouri Western. He mainly played defensive line in his four seasons but played some time at fullback.

Rookie linebacker Reese a happy camper

The Giants leave West Virginia Saturday after their 10th practice in 11 days. Rookie linebacker Arvell Reese enjoyed his first taste of an NFL training camp. 

Reese said that John Harbaugh's practices and the lengthy live periods of team drills remind him of the intense ones he had at Ohio State.

With one caveat.

"I think everything's a little bit faster here," Reese said Friday. "[Harbaugh] does a good job of running camp though, so, I think he does a good job. Everything's kind of the same. Camp is camp. Camp is football." 

Reese has earned strong reviews for not just effort but his production. Whether it's his nose for the ball or his athleticism, he's been an early standout through the first two weeks.

Maybe the best thing is how quickly Reese has picked things up. Harbaugh has noted several times that Reese doesn't miss many assignments and the rookie explained why that matters to him.

"That's my job to do that. I get to do that, you feel me? So, it's very important," he said. "I take a lot of pride in that, in knowing my stuff and making sure I'm doing everything right. Mistakes happen but try to just limit those mistakes and not make the same mistake twice."

For fellow linebacker Tremaine Edmunds, Reese's preparation has made him not just a great pupil but a great partner in the middle of the field. It was evident in the offseason how much Reese asked questions and put in work and Edmunds has been pleased how it's showing up. 

"I think the most impressive thing is that he wants to learn," Edmunds said. "I like to talk about off the field because he's somebody that wants to learn, somebody that wants to get better. Anybody comes up, say something to him, ‘I got you.’ And he knows ball. So, at the end of the day the ceiling is high for him."

Under construction

The Giants returned home to a facility under construction. Players entered from the east side of the field instead of the center as usual.

It's because their locker rooms and weight room for now are situated in makeshift tents. It's a part of renovations that are underway through 2028 and include an upgraded locker room, weight room, recovery and wellness areas.

"It's not the Taj Mahal over there and we have to make it better. It's as good as we could do right now but you kind of learn real quick what you need," John Harbaugh said.

It's not what some expected after the Giants' positive experience in West Virginia, but Harbaugh saw it as a positive. He credited the Giants ownership for making the changes when they saw things needed to be done. He complemented them for fixing the fields from the spring after Harbaugh raised an issue.

The players might be adjusting but It didn't change their approach going through a tough 2 1/2-hour practice where temperatures reached the high 80s when it ended.

"It's just conditions. Ain't really got nothing to do with what's going on between these lines," linebacker Brian Burns said.

Harbaugh even saw the changes as a benefit with how he wants his team to be more physical this season.

"It's gritty. So maybe it's just what we needed," Harbaugh said. "You know, maybe God said 'I need you to be a little grittier as a football', so we're going to put you in this park over here."

How will Harbaugh handle playing starters in the preseason?

The Giants’ first preseason game is a week away on Aug. 15 hosting the Vikings. With a new coaching staff, there will be a closer look at how much John Harbaugh chooses to play his starters.

He hasn’t decided yet how much they will play. From his comments Thursday, don’t be surprised if some starters get more reps next Saturday or the following two preseason games.

“We're a young team. So, young guys, we're going to want them out there playing and getting experience,” Harbaugh said. “So, that's kind of the way I would think would be the way we'd be leaning. How much, what degree, what games, we have to figure that out still.”

It’s the usual choice of balancing chemistry over safety. The Giants would love more live reps to test out their new offense and defense. Teams don’t lean heavily on starters in the preseason. The Giants have a joint practice with the Dolphins on Aug. 20, so that'll be another good testing ground.

Harbaugh has time to figure things out. The Giants’ other preseason games are at the Dolphins on Aug. 22 and the Jets on Aug. 28.

Praise for Francis Mauigoa

Arvell Reese isn’t the only Giants rookie turning heads through training camp. His fellow first round pick Francis "Sisi" Mauigoa has impressed teammates as well.

Mauigoa has taken a lot of first-team reps at right guard so far. For someone who mostly played tackle in college, he’s held his own while going through the usual challenges rookies face.

“Just professional. To be a rookie, he’s in tune to his assignments,” left tackle Andrew Thomas said. “He has really good technique. Obviously, he has the physical traits. It's been exciting to see him put it together so far.”

With four starting linemen back from last season, it can make Mauigoa’s adjustment easier to learn from so many veterans. It also can add pressure.

There will be some bumps and mistakes since Mauigoa is learning a new position. But so far, he’s handled things well. It’s not just his fellow linemen praising him.Tthe first-team defense is also noticing his potential.

“I think the guys that's on the O-line is making him better as well,” linebacker Tremaine Edmunds said Thursday. “He's learning from some of the older guys, but early impressions, he's strong. He understands like blocking schemes and where to be at. So, he's doing a good job right now.”

Dart, offense get last the laugh

The Giants ended practice on a high note with the first-team offense going on a 14-play scoring drive. Initially, it was supposed to be just 13 plays.

After some discussion, John Harbaugh allowed the offense to run one more play. The offense then scored with Jaxson Dart throwing a 2-yard touchdown pass to Darius Slayton.

"They lobbied. I wanted it to be done," Harbaugh said. "That was supposed to be the last play before that, and they wanted the last play, so I cracked and gave them that last play."

It proved a fitting end to perhaps the most strenuous practice so far. The Giants will practice Saturday and leave West Virginia right after to return home.

Zvada vs. Sauls: The kicking competition is heating up

Dominic Zvada continues to feel like the leader to win the kicking job. On Wednesday he was 10-for-10 in field goals. He and Ben Sauls both went 6-for-7 on field goals on Friday.

John Harbaugh has trusted his two kickers to battle it out since the team hasn’t signed a veteran in that room.

Zvada has been more consistent through two weeks of camp.

It won’t be surprising if both of them get chances to get in Saturday’s preseason opener with the Vikings. But Zvada remains the favorite right now even if Harbaugh didn’t want to tip his hand.

“They've done well. They've made a good number of kicks,” Harbaugh said. "I feel good about it."

Giants transactions: Woods in, Roberts out

Giants resume practice Monday in New Jersey at 1:30 p.m. It's also game-week prep with the team gearing up for their preseason opener hosting the Vikings on Saturday.

Some quick housekeeping news. The team announced they released defensive tackle Sam Roberts on Monday. Roberts had yet to participate in training camp due to a lingering injury. The release opened up a spot for defensive back JT Woods, whose signing was also made official.

Woods was a former third-round draft pick in 2022 with the Chargers. He signed with the Jets last season on their practice squad and hasn't appeared in a game since 2023

The Giants signed three defensive backs over the last week, including D.J. James and David Long. Dru Phillips suffered a mild knee sprain last week so this could be insurance in case he misses a practice or two.

Thoughts on Giants' depth chart ahead of preseason opener

Giants released their first unofficial depth chart ahead of Saturday's preseason opener hosting the Vikings. Here's some quick thoughts.

• No surprise that rookies Francis Mauigoa and Arvell Reese are listed at starters at right guard and linebacker. Both have gotten consistent first-team reps since the spring.
• Isaiah Likely is listed at starting tight end ahead of Theo Johnson. That's expected given that Likely has become one of Dart’s favorite targets since the spring. Johnson will be a factor in two tight end sets, but Likely has better hands given Johnson’s issues with drops.
• Cam Skattebo and Tyrone Tracy are both listed at starting running back. That’s been expected since both have gotten first -eam reps in training camp. Skattebo, however, has gotten most of the reps so we will see how that gets divvied up in preseason.
• Deonte Banks is listed at starting kickoff returner while Braxton Berrios is at punt returner. Banks did kickoff duty last season after losing his starting cornerback job so that makes sense. Speaking of the cornerbacks....
• Paulson Adebo and Greg Newsome are listed at starting cornerbacks. This is very much up for grabs since Banks has gotten first-team reps and so has rookie Colton Hood. Hood is listed as the third-team cornerback but he’s not that far back in the rotation. Newsome and Dru Phillips are both nursing injuries so their status for Saturday is in question.
• Tyler Nubin is listed at starting safety with Jevon Holland. Don't be surprised if Jason Pinnock or Ar'Darius Washington push for that since Nubin has been sharing first-team reps with them in practice lately.
• The only two starting receivers are Malik Nabers and Darius Slayton. Rookie Malachi Fields is listed as third-team receiver and that’s a clear ruse because Jalin Hyatt is listed among the second team receivers with Darnell Mooney and Calvin Austin III. Fields has gotten more first and second team reps than Hyatt.
• Odell Beckham Jr. is listed among the third team receivers and Juju Smith-Schuster is listed among the fourth team. Beckham's roster spot is far from guaranteed so he'll be fighting through preseason even though he's made it through camp without any lingering injury issues. Smith-Schuster has a tougher climb and it doesn't help he's battling a lingering knee issue that kept him out of practice the last two days.
• No shock that Ben Sauls and Dominic Zvada are both listed at starting kicker. That battle will continue through the preseason so both will get their shots in-game to prove themselves. Zvada still remains the favorite.

Multiple bumps and bruises during Friday's practice

Friday’s Giants' practice was a tough, grueling one that lasted well over two hours. It also took a toll with a few players exiting early due to injuries.

Running back Cam Skattebo was hurt on a collision with linebacker Arvell Reese. Linebacker Brian Burns also aggravated an ongoing ankle injury. John Harbaugh told reporters neither was serious.

Center John Michael Schmitz, however, “got his bell rung”, Harbaugh said, and will likely be evaluated for a concussion. Backup center Lucas Patrick has been nursing a knee injury but filled in for Schmitz during practice.

As a result, the Giants will sign center Brenden Jaimes, a league source confirmed to Newsday. Jaimes worked out for the team on Wednesday and is a five-year veteran with stints on the Chargers and Patriots.

To open a spot for Jaimes, the team announced on Friday that they waived defensive back Jarrick Bernard-Converse with an injury designation. Bernard-Converse had been held out of practice Thursday due to a knee injury.

Spider-Man. Spider-Man.

The Giants’ Spider-Man said he enjoyed the latest Spider-Man movie subtitled “Brand New Day” which, despite the duties of training camp, he has already seen twice.

“I liked it,” said linebacker Brian Burns who has been called “Spider-Man” or “Spida” since college when he celebrated a sack with a crouching pose that mimicked the superhero. “It was very good. There were a couple of things I think I would have done different but I really enjoyed it.”

Burns said this latest film is “trending toward the top” in the rankings of the four Tom Holland-starring flicks. “I would say the last one (“No Way Home”) might have an edge on it because of the other Spider-Men who were in it and some of the villains,” Burns said. “But it’s trending toward the top. Maybe two.”

Mooney on Dart: 'He's calming down and he can just play quarterback'

The biggest difference in Jaxson Dart from the start of training camp to now hasn’t been in his aptitude but his attitude, at least according to wide receiver Darnell Mooney.

“At first I would say he was pretty pissed off with a couple things at the beginning,” Mooney said of Dart’s disposition when the team first took the field in West Virginia roughly two weeks ago. “A lot of guys are trying to figure out everything, we are trying to learn the playbook. Now that guys know the playbook things are running a little bit more smoothly. He’s not having to help everyone out. We can help him.”

That has allowed Dart to put the focus back on his job rather than everyone else’s, and it’s made him a happier training camper for it.

“He’s calming down and he can just play quarterback,” Mooney said.

'Maniac' Brian Burns tones it down a tad

Teammates called Brian Burns “a maniac” at times in training camp last year as the linebacker spent the summer sprinting through practices at full speed. It led to the most productive season of his career. This year, though, Burns is relenting just a bit when it comes to going all out on every rep through the whistle.

“I still have the same mentality,” he said on Monday. “I would say I learned my lesson from doing that so I do tone it down a bit, but it has the same intent and the same mentality as far as getting after the ball and chasing the ball.”

The lesson, he said, came from last year’s collision with receiver Wan’Dale Robinson after chasing down tight end Greg Dulcich. Burns and Robinson were both shaken up by the violence of the hit and Robinson wound up losing a tooth from the experience.

“When you see a lot of people, slow down a little bit,” Burns said of his mentality on Monday, “otherwise you might knock another tooth out.”

5 observations from Monday's practice

Besides Darius Alexander's interception, Paulson Adebo had one off Jameis Winston.

Malik Nabers kept doing individual drills. There was no change in his routine as he watched team drills or did some work with trainers off to the side.

With Greg Newsome out, Deonte Banks continued to get more first-team reps. At one point in team drills, he and Colton Hood were the first-team cornerbacks.

Fullback Patrick Ricard had a great block on Arvell Reese early in team drills to free up Cam Skattebo for a few years. What a menace Ricard will be blocking for the Giants running backs.

Jaxson Dart's last throw of the day was a great connection with Darius Slayton. Slayton made a move to get free down the sidelines and Dart launched a deep pass right into his hands.

Darius Alexander looking to make big leap on 'D' in Year 2

Darius Alexander's pick-6 was one of the highlights of Monday's practice. It's symbolized how Alexander knows he has to make plays going into his second year.

New defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson was impressed but also got colorful when he explained the standard he has for Alexander.

"We want him to be a tough guy, all the time," Wilson said. "And that should be on his mind first cause if he does that, he can grow into a really good player."

Alexander's greatest value isn't just rushing the passer or making interceptions. It's being a reason the Giants' run defense is significantly better than last year.

Alexander's made a name in training camp for getting in the backfield and now having two highlight worthy interceptions. Wilson, however, wants him to be meaner where he counts and that's in the trenches.

"He's growing," Wilson said. "The big thing with him is being able to play the run and playing it consistently."

There's nothing wrong with a bit of competition

The Giants' secondary has held some of the more intriguing position battles during training camp. Consider the rotations Tuesday.

With Paulson Adebo absent and Greg Newsome out with injury, Deonte Banks and Colton Hood took most of the first-team reps. Even when Adebo was present, Banks has rotated first-team reps with him as well as Newsome.

The competition even carried over to safety. Ar'Darius Washington took most of the first-team safety reps next to Jevon Holland with Tyler Nubin mostly on second team. It's shown that for returning starters like Nubin and Adebo, nothing is guaranteed with new coordinator Dennard Wilson.

And that's the way he wants it.

"If you're comfortable when you have competition, you're going to sink," Wilson said. "But when you have competition and you play hard and you're resilient, you're normally going to come out on the winning side of it. A lot of these guys are embracing competition. We talk about it in the room, never compromise for competition."

Coach John Harbaugh said he likes the competition at cornerback. It reminds, though, that the Giants' defense had multiple issues besides the run. Adebo was signed last year to be the Giants' top cornerback but it's telling that he's losing reps to Banks, who lost his starting job last season.

Banks still needs to show he can be productive in-game. The Giants' plan to be a more physical defense with press coverage, something that suits Banks' strengths. But Wilson's comments suggest that the secondary still needs to figure out who'll be next to Holland and which cornerbacks will start.

"To me, it makes everybody better," Harbaugh said about the battles. "But then when the games come, I'm looking forward to seeing how guys look against another team and get a better feel for where you're at."

Kickin' it with Zvada and Sauls

The Giants' kicking competition has pitted two young kickers against each other. Undrafted rookie Dominic Zvada and Ben Sauls in his second season.

Zvada has been more efficient so far but both have looked good at times. Coach John Harbaugh hasn't added a veteran kicker into the room so it's putting a lot of trust in two unproven players to decide who's won the job. Sauls was 8-for-8 on field goals in the Giants' final three games.

Special teams coordinator Chris Horton said its easy to trust Zvada and Sauls because of how they prepare each day despite their lack of experience.

"It's what they do when they're out there," Horton said Tuesday. "You build trust through your work. You build trust through your preparation and the preparation that both these guys are bringing every day? We're trusting them. But we're gonna have to trust them in the big moments and we try to put them in those situations."

Beckham will play in preseason opener at MetLife Stadium

John Harbaugh still hasn't made a public decision on whether or not he'll play quarterback Jaxson Dart in Saturday's preseason opener.

He said recently that because the Giants are young, he'd like them to play and get experience.

But does that include his second-year quarterback? Harbaugh wouldn't say.

"That's a good question I'm going to have to dodge, have to bob and weave. I'll let you know later," Harbaugh said.

Harbaugh did say one notable veteran would play Saturday — Odell Beckham Jr. He was pleased with how Beckham has looked in practice and getting stronger every day so Beckham will get his chance to show what he can do back at MetLife Stadium.

It was something that had quarterback Jameis Winston excited thinking about it. As one of the few current Giants who played against Beckham when he was at his Giants peak, he's already imagining how the crowd will react to his preseason return in Giants gear.

"I can't wait to hear the fans yell when he runs out there and catches a touchdown against the Minnesota Vikings," Winston said Wednesday. "I think that's going to be one of the loudest roars."

So long, farewell, Greenbrier

After two weeks, the Giants wrapped up practicing at The Greenbrier in West Virginia. One of the goals was to start training camp by building camaraderie in a new setting and they achieved it by the time they left Saturday afternoon.

“I would give it an A-plus for that. It's been really everything,” Coach John Harbaugh told reporters. “We've been able to focus on the task at hand. There's really no distractions out here. It's a beautiful setting. It's a beautiful resort. Everything has been excellent and the guys have been able to lock in on the football.”

Practice shifts back to Giants’ facility in New Jersey on Monday, with their first preseason game coming Saturday at home against the Vikings.

Jaxson Dart slides on a scramble. Repeat. Jaxson Dart slides on a scramble.

The defense rarely cheers for something the offense does in a training camp practice, but on Monday the Giants made an exception.

Jaxson Dart scrambled to his right in an 11-on-11 drill and took off toward the sideline. Rather than lower his shoulder or tip-toe along the white to achieve more yardage, as he has mostly done in the past, the second-year quarterback ended the run with a baseball slide.

The defense, standing right in front of the slide, cheered for the decision.

“We've been begging him to do that for a while,” Brian Burns said.

“I clapped too, I applauded,” John Harbaugh said. He was also impressed that Dart stayed inbounds to keep the clock running as part of the situational part of the rep.

Impressing upon Dart the wisdom of such decisions has been a focus of this entire offseason.

Dart had his foot stepped on a little earlier in practice and was limping gingerly at the time but he did not miss any reps and seemed fine after a few minutes. The sprint before the slide seemed to be at full speed and a few plays later Dart rolled left, stumbled, righted himself, and delivered a pass to Calvin Austin II.

Everyone on the team has an interest in keeping Dart healthy and sliding rather than exposing himself to unnecessary hits - even in a practice when he is not supposed to be touched anyway. That was definitely appreciated by the offense and defense alike.

Injury update: Abdul Carter back

Abdul Carter was back at Giants practice on Tuesday after missing Monday with a hand/finger issue. Carter was a full participant.

Dru Phillips and Greg Newsome both missed practice dealing with injuries. Cornerback Paulson Adebo was absent for an unknown reason, so rookie Colton Hood and Deonte Banks took the bulk of first-team reps.

Jalin Hyatt also was absent after he went down on the last play of Monday’s practice. Rookie OL Francis Mauigoa and DL Chauncey Golston (head injury) were present but held out of team drills after being injured Monday.

WR Juju Smith-Schuster (knee) was also not present. Center John Michael Schmitz remains in concussion protocol, and Malik Nabers continued his usual work of individual drills and being held out of team drills.

Pinnock engaged to be married in February . . . after the Super Bowl

Justin Pinnock got engaged to his partner Cameran Gordon in late March, just a few weeks after he reunited with the Giants as a free-agent safety. They plan to get married in February of 2027.

Late February, he was sure to point out. Just in case.

“I’m at the end,” he said of the nuptials scheduled for the 27th. “Gotta make room.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Cameran (@camchanel_)

Room for a potential Super Bowl run, of course. This year’s big game will be played on Feb. 14 – Valentine’s Day – and Pinnock wanted to make sure his other romantic pursuit is clear from the possibility of his playing that month… not to mention any possible parades and other celebrations that might follow.

Pinnock was with the Giants from 2022-24 and started 37 games during that span before signing with the 49ers last season.

“I couldn’t control that too much,” he said, making it seem as if the Giants did not make him an offer. They did this offseason, though, and he returned to the Giants on a one-year deal in March, though.

“It feels good,” he said of being back. “I’m home.”

Carter among those out of Monday's practice

Several Giants were absent or left Monday's practice early

Abdul Carter (hand/finger), Juju Smith-Schuster (knee), Dru Phillips (knee sprain), Greg Newsome all sat out. Center John Michael Schmitz was officially placed in concussion protocol, John Harbaugh said, and backup center Lucas Patrick is also nursing a knee injury.

Harbaugh said Newsome would be fine and that Carter could possibly practice on Tuesday. Smith-Schuster and Patrick have dealt with lingering knee issues so the Giants are managing them. Patrick is expected to get a PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injection to see if it helps.

DL Chauncey Golston walked to the locker room after banging his head on the field and will be evaluated further.

Updates on Nabers, Adebo and more

Malik Nabers continued to work in individual drills Wednesday but those plans could change soon, John Harbaugh said.

"We're looking towards soon ramping him into some group periods, perhaps some team periods maybe next week, we'll see," Harbaugh said.

Nabers did less work Wednesday than usual but Harbaugh said he's exactly where he's been on his plan without any setbacks. He looked good Tuesday when he ran routes and made a difficult catch in the end zone during individual drills. Nabers would likely be eased back into 7-on-7 drills before full team drills.

Cornerback Paulson Adebo is "day-to-day" after being nicked up at practice. He wasn't seen at practice Tuesday but worked off to the side with training staff Wednesday. Receiver Jalin Hyatt, who was hurt on the last play of Monday's practice when a teammate fell on him, should be back "in a reasonable period of time", Harbaugh said.

CB Dru Phillips (knee) and Greg Newsome (knee) didn't participate in team drills and continued to work on the side. Receiver Juju Smith-Schuster (knee) and Lucas Patrick (knee) were also working with trainers. Center John Michael Schmitz remains in concussion protocol. Right guard Francis Mauigoa was a full participant after being held out of team drills Tuesday.

Darius Alexander wants to go beyond the exciting play in practice

The secret sauce to Giants’ defensive lineman Darius Alexander’s athleticism? Yoga and pilates.

He’s practiced both for four years. Alexander’s strength coach at Toledo introduced him to yoga by bringing an instructor to practice. When Alexander found out she also taught pilates, he joined that class, too.

“Me being a big guy, just being able to move, be able to bend, it helps me be able to tap into my traits that I have as an athlete,” Alexander told Newsday. “The abilities that I can use out there on the field for certain play calls or certain things that coaches want to see me do, being lined up at different positions, being able to excel there."

Now the second-year defensive tackle is attracting attention in Giants camp for his improvement and his agility. He intercepted Jaxson Dart on Monday and returned it for a touchdown.

It was his second highlight interception in camp after he made a leaping grab on a Dart pass to end the Giants’ third practice. Plays like that are why Alexander has gotten first-team reps and wasn’t buried after the Giants added several defensive tackles this offseason.

“Big boy got hands,” linebacker Brian Burns said of Alexander. “DA is also a very versatile weapon that we have. Him just being able to drop into space and make those type of plays, it just shows his athleticism and really his IQ.”

Alexander also knows he has big shoes to fill. Dexter Lawrence’s trade to the Bengals meant the Giants will replace his impact by committee. Alexander declined to say what he thought when the trade happened but the two were close since he trained with Lawrence after he was drafted last year.

Lawrence was always in his ear telling him he could be a special player who could do really great things. Alexander said he’s leaned on that advice while carving out a role with defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson’s unit.

“The number one thing he said to me was there’s nothing wrong with being special so don’t run away from the light,” Alexander said. “Don’t run away from the work, don’t run away from nothing. Stand there, stand your ground and go to work.”

That’s why Alexander embraced the competition. Veterans D.J. Reader and Shelby Harris led a group of at least eight new defensive tackles the Giants signed this offseason.

Alexander, Reader and Harris likely will be first up front to help improve the Giants’ run defense. Alexander has often asked both veterans questions since they’ve spent at least 10 years in the league.

“Those guys motivate me to go hard,” Alexander said. “Those guys are in their 30s, still in the league playing. Most guys don’t get to play at this level at that age, especially D-linemen.”

Wilson said Tuesday he challenged Alexander to not just make the flashy plays but excel stopping the run consistently. He wants Alexander to be a tough guy all the time.

It fits in line with Alexander’s goals too. He takes pride in his athleticism and footwork while calling himself one of the most nimble players at any position in the league. But his expectation is to be more than that.

Just like he’s used yoga and pilates to be flexible and help his versatility on the field, he’s stretching his dreams to do more than just make dynamic plays once in a while.

“Be the best and most dominant D-tackle in the NFL,” Alexander said. “I think I can accomplish that.”

Dart thrilled to have Nabers back on practice field: 'He has a certain presence about him'

Jaxson Dart's only on-field work with Malik Nabers in a game was limited to three targets and two catches in Week 4 last season before Nabers suffered his season-ending ACL/meniscus injury in the second quarter.

So count Dart among the players hooting and hollering when Nabers did his first work in team drills this training camp. Dart's pass was Nabers' third completion and it was a welcome sight since that connection has barely happened once Dart took over last season as starting quarterback.

Dart has thrown to Nabers in individual drills during camp yet Thursday felt different with Nabers lined up alongside teammates instead of just running routes by himself. It's a tease that the Giants hope to see more of this month and eventually in games this season.

"It's great to have him back out there," Dart said. I've said this before, he has a certain presence about him anytime he touches the field and I think the big thing today was also you just saw how excited he was himself to be out there. . . He's running all the way down, scoring. Yeah, just can't wait for it to be full go when the time comes."

Will Dart play in first preseason game? It's anyone's guess.

John Harbaugh didn't budge on not choosing to publicly say whether his starters, mainly quarterback Jaxson Dart, would play in the Giants' preseason opener Saturday.

"I plan on not talking about who's going to play. That's what I plan on doing," Harbaugh said. "I just decided just to leave it out there. You'll see when the game comes. It'll make the speculation so much fun if you don't know exactly what's gonna happen."

After the next question, though, Harbaugh made an interesting statement on how much he values starters getting reps. Especially when they're learning a new offense and defense like these Giants.

"I value first-team reps very much. You have to measure that against the risk," he said. "So there is risk as well and that's part of it too. You have to make that decision."

The guessing game will continue until just before 1 p.m. Saturday. Harbaugh did note that receiver Jalin Hyatt wouldn't play due to injury while players like Paulson Adebo and Juju Smith-Schuster, who did not practice in team drills Thursday, would be a game-time decision.

Last year, Dart played mostly the first halves of preseason games as a rookie. But of course, that was due to Russell Wilson not playing much as the starter. Now that he's established, Dart's reps will be more protected while making sure he gets chances to run a new offense against different competition.

Harbaugh addressed that possibility later which suggested that Dart and the starters will play at some point, whether it's Saturday or the remaining two preseason games. Another factor in how much they'll play is the Giants' tough opening schedule at home against Cowboys and at the Rams in their first two games.

"You've got a young quarterback who's just in his second year. Who didn't play a whole season even last year, so he's just getting started," Harbaugh said. "We're going to be playing two of the best teams in our conference right out of the gates, and so we'd like to be ready for that. So that's part of the consideration."

Walk-off field goal: Zvada nails 61-yarder to end practice

Giants practice ended with a bang Wednesday when undrafted rookie Dominic Zvada drilled a 61-yarder on the final play of the day.

“I thought he was going to make it,” coach John Harbaugh said. “…It was a great kick and a great snap. It was exciting.”

The Giants brought in the strong-legged kicker from Michigan to compete with Ben Sauls, one of five different kickers for the Giants last year. The Giants haven’t had a kicker start all 17 games since Graham Gano in 2022. Incidentally, that was the last time the team also had a winning season.

Saturday’s preseason opener against Minnesota gives both players their first chance to kick under game pressure this summer. And from the sounds of things, Harbaugh isn’t leaning one way or another.

Explosive plays will be key focus on Nagy's offense

Whether or not Jaxson Dart plays in Saturday’s preseason opener, he and the Giants will get their first taste of seeing how Matt Nagy operates as offensive coordinator.

It'll be the debut of what hopes to be a new-look offense that can excite fans beyond just Dart's growth in his second season and first as a full-time starter. So how does Dart see Nagy as a play caller just from what he's learned since the spring?

“He's definitely aggressive. He's definitely wanting to create explosive plays,” Dart said.

It’s key because the Giants had so few of those plays once Dart took over. His longest completion last season was 44 yards, the second lowest of any quarterback who started at least half of their team’s games.

The Giants’ longest rush last season? 31 yards, the lowest of any team. So it’s on Nagy to not just develop Dart but make the Giants’ offense look exciting as well as efficient.

If that means take chances in preseason, so be it, as long as the Giants are pushing the ball forward into opponent territory.

“I think the big thing is, he wants to always stay ahead of the sticks,” Dart said. “He wants to be moving forward. And that's the big point of emphasis that we have. . . any negative plays, whether it may be penalties, whether it may be loss of yardage on a run or sacks, he's really big on minimizing those things.”

5 Giants I'm watching in preseason opener

Heading into Saturday's preseason opener against the Vikings, here are five Giants players I'll be keeping my eyes on at MetLife Stadium.

Arvell Reese

Reese gets to introduce himself to Giants fans eager to see their latest first-round pick. Reese has impressed in practice with his athleticism, smarts and play-making. Now it needs to show on the field.

There’s also intrigue with how the Giants will deploy Reese besides at inside linebacker because they could use him at pass rusher besides playing in coverage and against the run.

Odell Beckham Jr.

Beckham will give fans MetLife Stadium a nostalgia high on Saturday when he takes the field. Once that fades, it’s time to see if he can make a difference on this roster.

At 33, he needs to show production, not just a team-first attitude. He may not get many reps so he has to make the most of them. No matter how good he makes people feel, how he plays is what people will remember so he must prove he’s still got gas in that tank.

Deonte Banks

If the Giants’ cornerback competition is really up for grabs, let’s see how Banks has really improved. All the positive talk in camp can’t overshadow Banks’ frustrating play the last three years.

The only way that changes is if Banks shows something different in preseason. Dennard Wilson’s new scheme is more press-heavy, which allows corners to be physical. It plays to Banks’ strengths and with Paulson Adebo day-to-day, he must prove the training camp praise translates to better production.

Dominic Zvada

Zvada’s 61-yard field goal to end practice Wednesday highlighted why he’s the favorite to win the kicking job. But the rookie needs to prove it in-game. Ben Sauls has game experience, even if it’s just the Giants’ final three games last season.

This is where the kicking competition ramps up. Will the Giants alternate PATs to give each kicker a chance. Who goes out first on field goal duty? Who makes the best impression when kicks actually count.

Zvada has a great opportunity to show why Harbaugh and the staff should put their faith in him.

Malachi Fields

This could easily go to another rookie like Francis Mauigoa starting at right guard or Colton Hood getting reps at cornerback. But we’re going with Fields because he’s looking to stand out in a crowded receiving room.

If Darius Slayton, Darnell Mooney and Calvin Austin III don’t play much, Fields will get a chance to show why the Giants traded up to draft him. He’s shown great hands as a big target in practice and his catch radius is wide to grab anything in his direction. A strong performance could validate his push for more playing time.

The three things that make a good offense lineman

Who wants to be an offensive lineman for the Giants? For offensive line coach Mike Bloomgren, there's three simple rules.

1. Move a man from Point A to Point B against his will.
2. Secret Service style pass protection, "my life before his"
3. Finish.

"If we can get guys doing those three things, we're going to be pretty happy," Bloomgren said Thursday.

Fortunately, the Giants have experience and continuity up front to help make that easy. They return four starters and rookie Francis Mauigoa is continuing to make great adjustments playing right guard after playing tackle at Miami.

Saturday will be Mauigoa's preseason debut. There will be challenges for any rookie facing NFL speed and Mauigoa has a tough task facing a defense led by Vikings' defensive coordinator Brian Flores.

But Bloomgren was pleased with Mauigoa's work so far and how he's handled training camp learning a new position

"His process has been really good. I'm really proud of the way he's preparing," Bloomgren said. "I'm proud of the way he's learned, and his verbal and non-verbal communication with (right tackle) Jermaine (Eluemunor) and our centers has been really good. So, really proud of what he's done so far. Excited to see him get to participate, whether it's a preseason game or the joint practice next week."

Observations from the first half

The Giants are up 20-3 at halftime. Here are a couple of observations:

• Dominic Zvada is 2-for-2 on field goals (43, 32 yards) and 2-for-2 on PATs in his preseason debut. A good sign for the rookie.
• The Giants' run blocking was exceptional against the Dolphins. The Giants averaged 6.1 yards per carry and Tyrone Tracy and Devin Singletary had great running lanes to get through.
• Deonte Banks had a few pass breakups to highlight a good day for him at cornerback. Banks, Greg Newsome and Paulson Adebo rotated at CB in the first half.
• Tyrone Tracy Jr. had 48 total yards (26 rush, 22 receiving yards). He also was on kick return duty. He was great running and catching the ball but his costly fumble marred what should've been a strong day.
• With Darnell Mooney sitting, Darius Slayton had a strong day with four catches for 58 yards. Had a couple of key catches on third down.
• Odell Beckham Jr.'s first catch saw some of the dynamic elements he's shown before. He caught the pass, juked back to shake a defender then ran upfield for more yards. However, Beckham had a touchdown pass slip through his hands on the Giants' final drive of the half. He had two catches in the first half but he'd want that one back.

OBJ with the jukes 😮‍💨

NYGvsMIA on @nflnetwork
Stream on @NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/TX0VQ11Dpl

— NFL (@NFL) August 22, 2026

• Calvin Austin III had a great first half. A 21-yard rush, a 20-yard catch and an 18-yard punt return. He finished with two catches for 29 yards but showed his all-around skills that make him an intriguing piece on this roster.

Establishing the run: The Giants are doing it well in Miami

The Giants lead 17-0 over the Dolphins in the second quarter and have been dominant running the ball with their backup offensive linemen clearing holes with ease. It's a good glimpse of the run-first offense John Harbaugh and offensive coordinator Matt Nagy want to establish.

Devin Singletary just scored on a 13-yard touchdown run. He had a couple of strong runs this recent drive as well. With Cam Skattebo and Najee Harris held out, this has been a chance for Singletary and Tyrone Tracy to show out a bit. Singletary's done that with eight carries for 40 yards.

RB Tracy makes mistake for second straigh week

Giants are up 7-0 after the first quarter in Miami.

Tyrone Tracy was playing well on the Giants' third drive with back-to-back runs of 11 and 12 yards. But then, the third-year running back fumbled the ball back to the Dolphins. It's his second straight game with a costly mistake after his missed block led to Jaxson Dart being sacked last week.

Who's in, who's out vs. Dolphins?

The Giants and Dolphins are underway in Miami and quite a few starters are being held out on both sides of the ball.

Jameis Winston started at quarterback instead of Jaxson Dart. Rookie J.C. Davis started at left tackle with Aaron Stinnie at right guard and Marcus Mbow at right tackle. Jon Runyan Jr. remained the starter at left guard and John Michael Schmitz was back at center after being in concussion protocol last week. Devin Singletary started at running back instead of Cam Skattebo.

On defense, Brian Burns, Abdul Carter, D.J. Reader, Shelby Harris, Paulson Adebo and Tremaine Edmunds all didn't start. Rookie Arvell Reese remained a starter at inside linebacker alongside Micah McFadden. Rookie Bobby Jamison-Travis started at defensive tackle next to Darius Alexander.

3 things I'm watching for preseason Game 2

1. Can the defense repeat what it did in practice?

The talk of Thursday’s practice was how the defense swarmed into the Dolphins backfield for sacks. John Harbaugh said he wants to see that in games, so can the Giants recreate that performance with the Dolphins scheming for it?

It also depends how long the first-team defense plays. Harbaugh held out four starters last week in D.J. Reader, Shelby Harris, Brian Burns and Jevon Holland. Their absence was felt with the Giants not being able to stop the run or get sacks. If Harbaugh lets his full first team play a few series, it’ll be a great chance to show how they can exert their will at game speed.

2. How long will Jaxson Dart and the first team offense play?

Dart and Co. played two series last week, with one scoring drive. But will Harbaugh be cautious with Dart after his second sack sent him to the blue medical tent? It’s hard to say since the team needs game reps to get used to new offensive coordinator Matt Nagy’s system.

Other things on offense to watch: If Cam Skattebo starts again, how much does Tyrone Tracy Jr. play with the first team after his missed block led to Dart’s sack. Does rookie Malachi Fields get more first-team snaps following his touchdown catch last week and solid week of practice?

3. Will kicker Dominic Zvada play?

Dominic Zvada sat in the Giants’ first preseason opener as Ben Sauls handled kicking duty. Harbaugh could turn to Zvada first on Saturday

The kicking competition remains one of the closest to watch in camp. Zvada's been more accurate and now needs to show in a game situation.

Fights!

It was inevitable that the Giants and Dolphins’ joint practice would lead to some fights. There were a few Thursday in Miami.

One fight involved Jameis Winston and rookie lineman J.C. Davis along with Dolphins trio Keith Cooper, Ronnie Harrison and Zeek Biggers. Receiver Calvin Austin III was bothered by a late hit which led to Winston getting involved.

Another fight saw Dolphins offensive lineman Austin Jackson threw a punch and Kayvon Thibodeaux retaliate by knocking Jackson down.

John Harbaugh understood that fighting was going to happen even despite setting up rules of engagement beforehand. But he did remove right tackle Jermaine Eluemunor from the Giants’ final drive after he threw a punch.

"I think as long as it doesn't get out of control where we get a violent type of situation, it's fine," Harbaugh told reporters. “We decided that anybody that threw a punch in those scrimmages would be treated like the game. That's why Jermaine didn't practice toward the end. He didn't really throw a hard punch, but it was to the facemask, and that'll get you in the game.”

6 sacks later, Burns still not thrilled by the defense vs. Miami

The Giants’ pass rush conquered two opponents at their joint practice Thursday: the Dolphins' offensive line and Miami’s thick humidity.

With temperatures in the low 90s, the Giants showed why their linebackers can make things difficult for quarterbacks. Brian Burns told reporters the Giants were credited with six sacks, and coach John Harbaugh added the pass rush was “ferocious.”

Yet Burns wasn’t pleased because he expects more from his unit.

“I feel like we didn’t play to the standard that I hold us to or that our leaders hold our defense to,” Burns told reporters. “This is our first joint (practice), you’re trying to be smart, make sure everybody get taken care but at the same time, they’re not our team. So when you have an opportunity to hit them, you hit them. You hold them up and they get hit again.

The Giants can certainly reach a high level given the potential they have with Burns, Abdul Carter and Kayvon Thibodeaux. "\Rookie inside linebacker Arvell Reese will also have chances to rush the quarterback as will veteran Chauncey Golston, who reportedly had multiple sacks Thursday.

Facing another team gave a glimpse of what the Giants are capable of. The pass rush is a strength under first-year coordinator Dennard Wilson, but the Dolphins’ offense isn’t expected to be one of the NFL’s best.

The Giants start the season against two high-powered offenses in the Cowboys and Rams. That might explain why Burns wanted to see more out of his group. He has high standards and he wants his team to chase them by setting a tone immediately instead of reacting to what teams do.

Even on a great day by the defense, there’s still room to get better.

“It just took a little bit to get going but I understand it’s our first joint,” Burns said. “I let it be known we don’t wait to get punched in the mouth…to fire off on somebody.”

Brian Burns goes from unranked to 14th-best player in NFL Top 100

The respect for Brian Burns around the NFL continues to grow after his 16 1/2 sacks last season. Burns was listed at No. 14 in the NFL's annual Top 100 players list as chosen by fellow players.

Burns wasn't listed in last year's ranking so this is a sizable jump after he was second in the NFL in sacks and made the All Pro-second team. Burns is also the only Giants player on the list after last year saw Dexter Lawrence (No. 17) and Malik Nabers (67) honored.

It's another mark of respect for someone who will be the leader of the Giants' defense this year. But as Burns said in West Virginia last month, it just means raising the standard and living up to more expectations after his first All=Pro selection.

"I got something else to work towards, trying to get first team," Burns said. "The goals just keep getting higher. That's a great accomplishment, I appreciate you guys (voting) for me or whatever, however that works, but there's still a lot of meat left on the bone, so you got to keep working."

Harbaugh teaches rookie CB Hood a bit of lesson

Colton Hood had a teaching moment in practice this week. The rookie cornerback was called for pass interference on one play and John Harbaugh appeared to chew him out before the two embraced.

Harbaugh made clear that being too physical and redirecting a receiver is going to be a flag every time. But it’s a lesson Hood learned with love and Harbaugh respected his competitive nature.

“He wants to win every snap,” Harbaugh said. “And I think it's part of the journey for the young corners all around the league. Every single rookie corner in the league is making this journey in terms of what is allowable.”

Hood is continuing to shuffle first-team reps with Paulson Adebo, Greg Newsome and Deonte Banks. But to stay on the field, players have to avoid penalties.

Hood drew an illegal contact penalty last Saturday against the Vikings but it was declined. So Harbaugh staying on Hood's case is a sign of trust in his development.

As long as he doesn’t repeat those mistakes often.

“Here's a young corner that's going to be playing a lot of football,” Harbaugh said. “So, you've got to accelerate the pace with that process. So, he's in that process right now.”

Why Harbaugh has the Giants practicing in the afternoon

The Giants head to Miami on Wednesday for a new experience this training camp. And not just because it’s their first and only joint practice.

The Giants will practice Thursday morning with the Dolphins. It’s a change of pace from John Harbaugh having practice in the afternoon, which is different from previous coach Brian Daboll having training camp in the morning.

So why has Harbaugh started practices at 1:30 p.m.? Partly to prepare for games being played in the afternoon or evening.

“You don't play in the morning. That's one thing,” Harbaugh said Tuesday. “And then what we found was over time was there's a certain preparation that you really have to get your body ready to both perform at the highest level and to, we believe, protect yourself. And it's just hard to do that in the morning.”

The Giants focus on strength, conditioning and mobility from 7:30-8:30 a.m. After that, they have meetings and a tempo practice that’s more like a jog-through to refine technique. Before practice begins, the Giants do a 15-to-30 minute preparation period to get ready for it.

It also helps the team isn’t practicing in a warmer climate like Miami or Houston where the afternoon heat can be oppressive. But this is another way the Giants are adjusting to Harbaugh’s plan for a better payoff next season.

“The idea is to have them ready for what they're going to have to do,” Harbaugh said. “Whatever the level of practice is so they would perform at the highest level that we think they physically can and so we can keep them safer.”

The Giants did practice Wednesday morning to prepare themselves for practicing at 9:30 a.m. Thursday. Yet for the most part, they’ve adjusted to their afternoon practice schedule.

“I prefer to practice in the morning, but however he wants it,” linebacker Abdul Carter said. “In the morning, noontime, it doesn't matter. We’re going to work.”

Source: Giants trade OL Daniel Faalele

The Giants are receiving a sixth-round 2027 draft pick after trading offensive lineman Daniel Faalele to the Jaguars Wednesday, a league source confirmed to Newsday.

Given that the team signed Faalele to a one-year deal in April after he played four seasons with the Ravens, it's a good add to the team's draft capital.

The Giants now have two sixth-round picks in next year's draft and have six picks total in what's regarded as a strong draft class. (Their seventh-round pick was sent to the Dolphins last year in the Darren Waller trade.)

Faalele was expected to add depth at right guard as a former Raven familiar with John Harbaugh's system. He started every game the last two seasons in Baltimore.

However, with the Giants drafting Francis Mauigoa, Mauigoa's taken almost all of the first team reps at right guard. Faalele has mostly been seen in practice with the second team.

With Faalele gone, the Giants will turn to Aaron Stinnie, Evan Neal or Joshua Ezeudu for guard depth behind Mauigoa. Stinnie has the most backup guard experience after doing so the last two seasons and also starting a game last season.

Neal, who the Giants re-signed to a one-year deal, was considered a longshot to make the roster after he played mostly third-team reps in practice and did third-team duty in the preseason opener. However, this opens a door for Neal to earn a roster spot after his Giants tenure has been underwhelming.

The Giants drafted Neal in the first round in 2022 as an offensive tackle but he hasn't played in a game since Week 17 in 2024. He switched to guard last season but was a healthy scratch for nearly every game.

Ezeudu, another member of the Giants' 2022 draft class, missed the 2025 season with a calf injury. The Giants' re-signed him this offseason on a one-year, prove-it deal.

Harris' familiarity with Harbaugh will come in handy

Najee Harris is no stranger to how John Harbaugh runs his teams. During his first four seasons in the NFL, Harris watched up close as his Steelers faced Harbaugh’s Ravens twice a year in the AFC North.

Harris felt a kinship with his former rival coach, making it easier for him to sign with the Giants on Tuesday for a one-year deal.

“Me playing against him a lot of times, I know the type of style of football he wants,” Harris said. “I think that we align with each other with what type of football we want to play. So I think that just coming here is a good opportunity and just willing to just put my foot in there and help out any way I can.”

Harris only did individual position drills and was a spectator for most of practice. He said he was cleared two months ago to do football drills after his Achilles injury last season with the Chargers and Jim Harbaugh.

John Harbaugh said it’ll take two-to-three weeks for Harris to get back in football shape. But since he knows what type of running back he’ll be, it won’t take long for Harris to fit in the Giants’ run-heavy offense.

“[I] have a good feel for who he is as a player,” Harbaugh said. "Everybody that’s been around him, my brother, G-Ro [senior offensive assistant Greg Roman], Mike Tomlin, loves him as a teammate. I’m excited for the possibilities.”

So is Harris, who can’t seem to quit being around the Harbaugh family just yet.

“[John] Harbaugh knew me ever since I got in the league and he knows all the stuff that I need to work on and all the stuff that I’m good at,” Harris said. “So to hear that and have him coach me will be really good for me.”

What's next for Malik Nabers?

The Giants welcomed the sight of Malik Nabers in team drills the last two practices. The question now is what are his next steps going forward?

This week is an interesting setup because the Giants practice Tuesday and then have a joint practice Thursday at the Dolphins. It’s their lightest week of training camp, so John Harbaugh has to figure out how to keep Nabers fresh to continue his ramp-up program.

Harbaugh said Monday that he and the training staff are still considering how much Nabers practices in Miami. He also reiterated the Giants aren’t sticking to a firm timeline to have Nabers ready by the season opener on Sept. 13.

“I think we’ve just got to go with the process,” Harbaugh said. “I mean, you can't really say. You can hope. Sure, I hope he’s out there. I'm praying for it, certainly, but we'll see.”

The next steps will include taking consecutive snaps in team drills, something Nabers didn’t do last Thursday or Monday. He’ll still wear a non-contact jersey for some time but taking that off for a normal practice one is another story.

Nabers said he’s listening to his body and talking to the training staff on how he’s feeling. He’s trying to go full speed but also be smart knowing it’s a long-term process being back to himself.

“The most important thing is just completing every milestone that they have in front of me,” Nabers said. "Giving good effort, continue to come out here, be a great teammate to my teammates and…just leading every day by day and just continue to take that milestone day by day.”

The Giants likely want Nabers healthy in October and November than just September. As much as the offense is handicapped without Nabers, it’d be better served having him at full strength than not.

So the process continues. Glimmers of hope but also a waiting game to see when Nabers gets more work and how his body handles it.

“He's got to be in those situations where he just re-learns how to play the game and protect himself,” Harbaugh said. “So, I think the doctors are going to know the same time we're going to know, because we're all going to see it, and he's going to feel it"

Source: Najee Harris signs with the Giants

Najee Harris’ visit with the Giants led to a new home. The team signed the running back to a one-year deal Tuesday, a league source confirmed to Newsday.

Harris worked out Monday and goes from playing for Jim Harbaugh’s Chargers last year to John Harbaugh's Giants this year.

Harris is also coming off an Achilles injury last year. John Harbaugh noted that Harris isn't in football shape yet even though he looked good in workouts. But he's familiar with Harris being a physical back since Harbaugh’s Ravens faced him in the AFC North during Harris’ four seasons for the Steelers from 2021-24.

“He's a decorated vet,” Harbaugh said Monday. “And with those guys, generally, you just have to kind of see where they're at when you get them.”

The Giants need running back depth after waiving Dante Miller with an injury designation. Harris provides that even if Harbaugh said it will be a process to get him ready to contribute.

Harbaugh's thoughts on Harris after his workout

John Harbaugh said “the hair on the back of my neck stood up” when he saw Najee Harris for his free agent workout with the Giants on Monday. For many years, Harbaugh and Harris were AFC North opponents at Baltimore and Pittsburgh. Might they be joining forces here with the Giants?

Not yet, Harbaugh said.

“He’s not back 100 percent, he’s not in football shape yet, so if we are able to do something it would be a process,” Harbaugh said of the running back who tore his Achilles last year with the Chargers, who are coached by John’s brother Jim Harbaugh. “Based on the workout I would say we feel like he has a shot. We just have to see how it goes.”

Harris, who was last listed at 6-1 and 245, would add significant size to a group of running backs where no one is taller than 5-11 or weighs more than 215. “He’s a big dude,” Harbaugh said. The Giants also lost Dante Miller to a groin injury in the preseason game, so they are short-handed at the position. Miller was waived with an injury designation on Monday.

Harris would also add experience having five years in the league. He's still just 28.

“He’s a decorated vet,” Harbaugh said. “With those guys generally you just have to see where they are at when you get them. Sometimes it works out great, sometimes it’s just OK, and other times it doesn’t work out.”

It sounds like the Giants want to find out which way this one will go.

Some notable Giants snap counts from preseason opener

Rookie linebacker Arvell Reese played 12 snaps on the first two drives. Besides his great tackle to stop Vikings running back Jordan Mason, he also assisted on another tackle with fellow rookie Colton Hood.

Speaking of Colton Hood, he played most of the first half at cornerback with 26 snaps, the same as Deonte Banks. Hood had three tackles and was flagged for an illegal contact penalty, although the Vikings declined.

Francis Mauigoa played 30 snaps in his preseason debut. The rookie right guard helped free up lanes for Devin Singletary's 40-yard catch-and-run with great blocking to carry his man forward. At one point, Mauigoa has his hands on two defenders while Singletary raced behind him.

Malachi Fields played 19 snaps. The rookie receiver caught the Giants' only touchdown and with three catches, he showed why he's pushing for more playing time. His 6-foot-4 frame brings a dimension the Giants lacked even with a healthy Malik Nabers.

Darius Alexander played 24 snaps and had the Giants' only sack. The second-year lineman also played well into the third quarter. Maybe that was a by-product of DJ Reader and Shelby Harris being held out, but it gave Alexander plenty of reps to show why he's pushing to be a starter.

Evan Neal played 20 snaps late in the second half at right guard. The Giants took a low-risk chance bringing Neal back on a one-year deal after he didn't play at all last season. However, Neal hasn't shown much to guarantee a roster spot. He's languished on third-team duty and barring any injuries, that's where he'll stay throughout camp and preseason.

Huge ovation for Odell

Odell Beckham Jr. arrived at MetLife Stadium on Saturday in an understated fashion. He wore a black shirt with a black cap and fit in with the majority of arrivals to the Giants locker room.

Except this was no ordinary game. Beckham Jr. hadn't played at MetLife Stadium since the Giants traded him after the 2018 season. Even if it was preseason, the return was special given what Beckham accomplished with the team from 2014-18. The fans knew it too as they gave Beckham an ovation when he took the field in the second quarter.

"Time to play ball," Beckham thought when he heard the reaction. "It's been a long time coming so I was just excited. Trying to stay in the moment, be where my feet are at and make plays."

Beckham caught two passes for six yards on three targets. His first catch was a six-yard slant from Jameis Winston with defenders. He had a chance for a third catch after breaking open from a defender and running downfield.

Instead, Winston connected with Malachi Fields on third down.

"I thought for a second it was about time to get back into the end zone," Beckham said. "Everything lit up."

Beckham didn't play in the fourth quarter. But as happy as he was for himself playing, he was happy for Fields' day. He told the rookie that he'd be the first one to score and Fields did just that. Then he advised Fields to take the ball home and give it to his son.

John Harbaugh praised Beckham for what he did well Saturday and the fans for cheering him on. It's yet another step in Beckham trying to earn a roster spot and Harbaugh was pleased with how Beckham has carried himself so far.

"What he's doing, what he's fighting for, I don't know how it's going to turn out," Harbaugh said. "It's going to turn out the way it turns out based on what happens. But to see his fight, his determination, his humility - he had his son in camp the other day. You know, he's doing it for his son. As a friend, that makes me really proud."

Beckham, too, was proud. For five seasons, he dazzled MetLife Stadium with amazing highlights. Now that he's older, he appreciated both where he's at trying to make the Giants' roster and embracing the feelings being back in familiar territory.

"Even from a warming up standpoint," Beckham said. "Going out there, seeing everybody. It's a surreal feeling."

Malachi Fields: 'That's what they wanted me here for'

Malachi Fields still had the football he caught for his first NFL touchdown under his arm as he talked about the play that led to the points in the postgame locker room.

“It started off as a regular play and once I saw (Jaxson Dart) scramble and get out of the pocket it was just scramble rules,” the rookie receiver said. “Once I started breaking for the end zone I saw him looking at me and I figured he was going to give me a chance.”

Dart did just that, throwing a high pass for the 6-foot-4 target who jumped over 5-foot-10 linebacker Ivan Pace Jr.

Fields was certainly tickled to have the souvenir.

“It’s going to go at the house so we all can look at it,” he said. “So me and my family can see it and know it was the first one.”

As for the play itself, though, Fields was more matter-of-fact.

“That’s what they wanted me here for,” he said.