It’s gonna be a disciplined, focused practice week for the New York Giants. Those key players Andrew Thomas and Dexter Lawrence have been shuttled with injury concerns. Thomas is coming back from Lisfranc surgery most recently performed last October. He failed to practice, which leaves doubts about his preparation for the upcoming campaign. Lawrence, an All-Pro defensive tackle, otherwise had only participated in individual drills all spring long.
Thomas, arguably the most important player on the O-line, is essential for keeping the QB upright and opening running room. His limited participation in team drills would have a ripple effect for the rest of the offensive unit as they continue to get ready for regular-season competition.
Besides Thomas, the Giants are dealing with the health of rookie wide receiver Malik Nabers. Nabers had a monster season last year, racking up 109 catches for 1,204 yards and seven touchdowns. He proved to be a dynamic player after the catch, averaging 4.3 YAC per reception. He ranked 82nd out of all receivers in that category.
Despite being selected sixth overall in last year’s draft and participating in the Pro Bowl, Nabers has yet to connect with quarterback Russell Wilson in live drills. Wilson, a 10-time Pro Bowler, will likely look to Nabers’ skills heavily as the season nears.
During one hard practice this month, the Giants faced a scenario full of adversity. As of now, eight starters were able to participate in the team-led providing. The unavailability of the two brings into question the bonding of the team. It further calls into question their preparedness as they approach increasingly competitive levels of training.
Head Coach Brian Daboll tackled these injury concerns head on by listening to why some players recover faster than others.
“Every person’s at a different part in — call it rehab if you will, or prehab,” – Brian Daboll
The Giants will continue to monitor the progress of Thomas and Lawrence closely as they integrate their star players back into team activities. As a new season approaches, our team readies itself. If they want to find success on the field, they need to make their health a priority and develop camaraderie and chemistry between players.
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