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The Giants get their preseason underway on Thursday night as they host the Detroit Lions in the first of three August games ahead of the regular season opener on Sept. 8.
Here are five things to watch during the preseason…
Position battles, especially in the secondary
There are some ongoing battles for starting roles, especially in the secondary, where only Deonte Banks and Jason Pinnock seem to be secure in their current role. According to the team’s first unofficial depth chart, Cor’Dale Flott is listed as the other starting cornerback — with Dane Belton as the other safety and rookie Dru Phillips in the slot. However, it’s close enough that a strong preseason performance by players such as Nick McCloud, Darnay Holmes or rookie Tyler Nubin could see them in the mix.
Other than in the secondary, there are decisions to be made on the offensive line and at tight end. Darren Waller’s retirement means that Daniel Bellinger is currently listed as the No. 1 tight end, but the Giants will be keen to see what rookie Theo Johnson has to offer.
There will also be some intense competition at the other end of the roster. Veterans like Isaiah Hodgins and DJ Davidson or recent draft picks Eric Neal and Gervarrius Owens could be on the bubble if they don’t step up.
Emerging rookies, led by Malik Nabers
As noted above, rookies like Phillips, Nubin, and Johnson could be in the mix for starting roles with a strong preseason performance, but the player everyone is most eager to see is Nabers.
The 21-year old has looked like the real deal in training camp, but the Giants will be eager for him to get some live reps against starter-level opposition to see what kind of production we can expect from him during the regular season.
One more player to watch, who figures to get a lot of work in, is fifth-round rookie Tyrone Tracy, who could beat out Eric Gray for the No. 2 running back role. Tracy posted great numbers for yards after contact in college and offers extra value as a kick…
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Author : SNY
Publish date : 2024-08-08 13:09:24
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