EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — The New York Giants completed their third day of training camp on Friday at the Quest Diagnostics Training Center. Below are some key takeaways from the session.

Highlights from Training Camp Day 3

As a credentialed media member for the first time, I experienced the vibrant atmosphere of training camp. The eclectic mix of Eminem’s energetic beats and the melodic strains of Mr. Brightside filled the air on a warm late July day. Following an insightful talk from head coach Brian Daboll, we moved onto the practice field to observe various drills executed by different position groups. Meanwhile, Gunner Olszewski was seen diligently fielding punts on a distant part of the field, showcasing his skills in preparation for the upcoming season.

On the sidelines, rookie tight end Theo Johnson and safety Tyler Nubin were engaged in stretching exercises alongside defensive backs Jalen Mills and Stantley Thomas-Oliver. Johnson and Mills performed light sprints, working on their speed and agility. Coach Daboll later addressed Nubin’s tight calf, reassuring that it was a precautionary measure rather than a significant concern. Cornerback Aaron Robinson made a brief appearance, but there was no sign of tackle Evan Neal, which raised some questions among the observers.

In-Depth Analysis of Positional Drills

Ed and I positioned ourselves alongside the defensive backs for an intensive session of positional drills, also known as indy drills. Defensive coordinator Shane Bowen dedicated most of his time to the secondary, actively engaging with both cornerbacks and safeties. Initially, the cornerbacks focused on fundamental techniques, such as backpedaling and breaking in one direction while maintaining their stance. They practiced high-pointing passes thrown by coaching staff, an essential skill for intercepting or deflecting throws.

As the drills progressed, Bowen introduced a new exercise that emphasized leverage, where cornerbacks were instructed to respond to specific receiver alignments on the outside. This drill was designed to simulate real-game situations, allowing the cornerbacks to assess their positioning and react accordingly. They also practiced framing and punch-out techniques at the catch point, which are critical for disrupting passes and creating turnovers.

The safeties participated in a similar drill where they focused on reading releases from two receivers positioned in a split-field alignment. This approach mirrors the strategies they’ll employ under Bowen in various coverage schemes, such as Palms and Quarters, which are designed to provide support in the middle of the field. The evident differences between Bowen’s defensive philosophy and that of former coordinator Wink Martindale were intriguing, especially since Bowen’s tactics emphasize a more open middle-field approach compared to Martindale’s closed formations. Despite the early stage of training camp, these strategic shifts were readily apparent.

The Giants organized four team periods during practice, one of which was a high-pressure two-minute drill. They concluded the session with a team period that showcased the defense’s prowess, culminating in safety Dane Belton’s interception of quarterback Daniel Jones in the red zone, a moment that highlighted defensive resilience.

Analyzing Daniel Jones’ Performance: A Mixed Bag

It’s remarkable to see Daniel Jones participating in his third consecutive practice after recovering from an ACL tear sustained last November. The coaching staff designed specific rollouts for him, including a strategic QB keeper during the two-minute drill. However, Jones’ overall performance during the team periods displayed some inconsistency, which is a concern as the team prepares for the season.

By the end of the practice, Jones completed 15 of 22 attempts, showcasing a completion rate of 68%, with one rushing touchdown and an interception. He also fumbled the ball when Dexter Lawrence overpowered offensive lineman Aaron Stinnie during a stunt, causing the ball to slip away as Jones stepped into the pocket. There were indications that Kayvon Thibodeaux may have contributed to the fumble, though the situation was somewhat unclear from my vantage point.

While Jones struggled with deep-ball accuracy, he was effective in the quick game, demonstrating his ability to move the ball efficiently. His first-team period began positively with a touchdown pass to Malik Nabers on a dig route that sent the sidelines into a frenzy, illustrating his potential when executing plays correctly.

Throughout the four team periods, Jones showcased solid connections with receivers on quick passes and bubble screens aimed at Wan’Dale Robinson, Darius Slayton, and Malik Nabers. However, he faced challenges with his deep ball accuracy, notably missing a wide-open Robinson along the sideline due to an overly high throw that sailed a few yards over his intended target, compounded by pressure from Burns, who had successfully evaded Andrew Thomas with a swift inside move.

The coaching staff devised a rollout to Jones’ right, allowing Nabers to cross the field for a throwback play. Nabers managed to create a significant separation of 10-12 yards from Cor’Dale Flott, but unfortunately, Jones failed to elevate the pass sufficiently, resulting in it trailing behind Nabers, allowing Flott to contest the catch. Additionally, Jones misfired on a 15-yard out route intended for Daniel Bellinger, throwing it high and to the inside, missing a critical opportunity.

Nevertheless, Jones demonstrated resilience during the two-minute drill, connecting with Nabers on a deep nine route. He quickly rallied the offense to the line of scrimmage and delivered a perfectly placed back-shoulder pass to Jalin Hyatt, who was brought down at the three-yard line, setting up the rushing touchdown for Jones.

In the two-minute drill, Jones showcased his effectiveness, finishing 2 of 2 in three plays, including a rushing touchdown. He efficiently moved the offense, completing three rapid passes to Bellinger, Robinson, and Nabers. The reception by Bellinger had the potential for significant yards after the catch. However, on the final throw of the practice, Jones was baited into an interception by Dane Belton, who read his intentions and made a play in the end zone.

Overall, it’s encouraging to see Jones back on the field and participating without limitations. While he exhibited some struggles with accuracy on throws beyond 10 yards during Friday’s practice, he also made crucial completions, particularly in the high-pressure two-minute drill, indicating areas of growth as he continues to refine his game.

Additional Insights and Observations from Training Camp

• After practice, Jon Runyan casually discussed with the media that Jermaine Eluemunor’s natural position is right tackle, providing insight into team dynamics.
• Before the practice commenced, Coach Daboll praised Allen Robinson for his leadership and skills demonstrated in the film room, highlighting the importance of veteran presence.
• Post-practice, Allen Robinson noted that young talents like Nabers, Hyatt, and Robinson exhibit a strong attention to detail and skill, giving them a competitive edge in the league.
• Daboll mentioned that tight end Jack Stoll and linebacker Micah McFadden, among others, would gradually increase their participation in practices over the next weeks, emphasizing the importance of player health and readiness.
• Eluemunor returned to practice with the first team just two days after suffering the Dex Effect injury, showcasing his resilience.
• It appeared that Deonte Banks and John Michael Schmitz had a lighter workload during practice, which could be a strategy to manage their energy levels.
• Banks did manage to deflect a pass during the initial team period against Nabers; the ball was slightly underthrown by Jones, illustrating the need for precise quarterback play.
• During the latter half of practice, Jimmy Morrissey took first-team reps over Austin Schlottmann in place of John Michael Schmitz, indicating ongoing competition for starting roles.
• Josh Ezeudu stepped in for first-team snaps at both tackle positions, providing valuable depth as Eluemunor and Thomas took brief breaks.
• Daniel Bellinger began the team period with the third team but finished strong with the first team, demonstrating versatility and adaptability in his role. Both Chris Manhertz and Lawrence Cager also received first-team reps, showcasing the depth of the tight end position.
• Running back Dante ‘Turbo’ Miller caught attention with two touchdowns, including a long wheel route where he successfully outpaced rookie linebacker Darius Muasau.
• Miller’s first touchdown came from a quick flare route thrown by quarterback Tommy DeVito, demonstrating his versatility in the offensive scheme.
• DeVito, however, missed an open Bryce Ford-Wheaton along the sideline, as the throw was slightly underthrown and off-target.
• Drew Lock overshot a wide-open Miles Boykin on a vertical route, indicating the need for improved accuracy in the passing game.
• The Giants’ offense incorporated designed QB runs for both Lock and Jones, in addition to implementing another end-around play for the third consecutive practice, this time featuring Wan’Dale Robinson, showing their commitment to a dynamic offensive strategy.
• Ryder Anderson joined Rakeem Nunez-Roches and Dexter Lawrence on the first team, suggesting he is in a strong position to earn snaps in the BASE personnel set.
• Isaiah Simmons worked with the defensive backs during individual drills, while Nick McCloud provided instruction on various line of scrimmage techniques in press coverage, showcasing the team’s focus on skill development.
• Dane Belton concluded practice with a significant interception of Daniel Jones in the end zone, asserting his place in the defensive lineup.

Key Takeaways and Future Outlook

In summary, attending the first practice was an enjoyable and enlightening experience. Although there were no individual drills between cornerbacks and wide receivers, numerous vertical routes were executed throughout the session. While Daniel Jones did not have his best practice, his resilience in the two-minute drill was notable, completing six passes in just three plays. Emerging players like Dante ‘Turbo’ Miller are starting to make their presence felt as the first week of training camp wraps up. With numerous positional battles still to unfold and roster spots up for grabs, the upcoming weeks promise to be both exciting and revealing.

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