Practice was closed to the public today. Overcast skies, minimal wind, very comfortable temperature.
I have to rush and post this, sorry if there are typos.
SPECIAL TEAMS
-Mike Nugent showed better loft and distance on kickoffs than Aldrick Rosas. Who knows if they were actually trying to let loose or not.
-A lot, and I mean a lot, of attention is put on special teams. We got to see plenty of 1 on 1 battles with these guys going all out on each other. They were practicing blocking on the move, where the offensive player runs to a spot, turns around and goes head to head with a downhill defender that had a 15-20 yard head of steam. The bubble guys need to show something here. DE Kerry Wynn was beating everyone he matched up against. S Trey Robinson stood out a couple times. S Landon Collins got involved twice and even in a simple drill like this, his ability stands out. RB Wayne Gallman’s lack of presence showed, he may have a hard time factoring as a blocker at his size. LB Calvin Munson stood out, consistently getting rave reviews from coaches.
OFFENSE NOTES
-As I left the practice facility, QB Davis Webb was working on deep throws and footwork associated with them with two of the Giants support staff (ball boys). This was a solid 20 minutes after practice. TE Rhett Ellison was on another field working on his technique out of his stance, getting in to his routes.
-One thing I see WRs Odell Beckham and Brandon Marshall do very well, they attack the ball in the air. They don’t sit back and let it come to them, they alter their weight and attack. Very important that your top guys do that. Marshall overwhelmed CB Valentino Blake on a pass near the back of the end zone, there was no chance for Blake, he looked like a kid trying to defend his dad and that is not a knock on Blake.
-TE is a very crowded group, we’ve discussed. Colin Thompson keeps jumping out at me. I think there is no shot he makes the team, but he is a legit practice squad candidate. The team brought him in as a blocker, but he moves much better when running routes than I initially thought. Soft hands, been catching almost everything thrown his way. This TE group in camp is very solid.
-I put more attention on the two rookie OTs, Bisnowaty and Wheeler. Wheeler does a great job post-snap. He gets out of his stance quickly and easily. Very good body positioning, knee bend, and set up. Honestly, he is better than Flowers when it comes to that part of the process. Bisnowaty is a little more sluggish and unsure. He didn’t keep his feet moving against Kerry Wynn today and it made him look silly. He was facing the ground on a couple of occasions, showing he is over-committing and lunging while bending at the waist. Body wise, Wheeler simply needs more muscle as I have been saying. Bisnowaty too, but you can tell he has spent more time in the weight room.
-OT Flowers had a solid day but his over-lean and wrap-around the defender’s neck in pass protection flared up twice from what I saw. OT Hart was schooled by DE Pierre-Paul again, winding up on the ground. OG Jerry, when I had the vantage point to really zero in on him, didn’t get beat at all. He is a very large man with athletic legs. He is without a doubt the starting RG over Fluker.
-Geno vs. Johnson battle goes to Geno today. He is looking more and more confident with each day that passes. His arm is much more lively than Johnson’s.
-TE Matt LaCosse with another nice TD catch today. Natural hands on the move with a huge wingspan, nice weapon to have especially in that area.
-WR Kevin Snead body catches everything. Amazing to see the difference between him and Beckham and how they approach catching the ball.
-RB Orleans Darkwa’s avenue to making this team is likely the short yardage back. He is bigger and stronger than the other guys. Without Darkwa, there really isn’t any sense of power in that backfield. If the team doesn’t think he can handle that job, I wonder if the 4th RB is even currently on this roster.
-WR Roger Lewis doesn’t get a ton of WR reps with the first or second group. I’m wondering if he is actually that far down the depth chart or they are just trying to get the bubble guys more reps to fully evaluate. He did drop an easy TD on a short slant pass and his routes aren’t crisp. But I really like how Lewis moves. Very twitchy, loose, and strong. I think he has the potential to be a top tier gunner in this league on special teams.
-WRs Darius Powe and Travis Rudolph might be competing for one spot. We have highlighted Rudolph already, his ability to do everything right stands out. But he doesn’t separate downfield at all and he isn’t physical enough in traffic to be a factor. Powe has the size but I’m not sure he can separate from NFL DBs. He doesn’t have long speed and there isn’t a lot of quick twitch to him underneath.
DEFENSE NOTES
-The team’s #4 CB has to be Michael Hunter. I’m saying this right now with a lot of confidence, there are teams in this league where he could start. He is so consistent when it comes to trust his footwork and length while attacking the ball. He is breaking up multiple passes every day. NYG has an outstanding CB group, maybe the best in the league if Apple takes the expected step up.
-CB Janoris Jenkins ignores size completely. He shows no hesitation when going after WR Marshall. He is so fast to diagnose and react. He sniffs out screens and crossing routes in a blink. And I love how hard he competes for the ball in the air.
-DT Jay Bromley made a couple nice plays against the run today. He beat DJ Fluker badly on one running play which would have resulted in a 4 yard loss. He is a very large, long guy. There are tools to work with there, it will just be a matter of him showing consistency when it comes to techniques and awareness.
-The question with the DT group will be how long guys can go before needing a break. Harrison started to break down a little towards the end of last year, Thomas was limping around between plays today with what appeared hamstring/back soreness (just speculating). Tomlinson looks like he is still trying to figure it out mentally, as he hasn’t been able to get off blocks at all. Bromley is very inconsistent as I noted.
-I put the eye on FS Darian Thompson today as best I could. Not sure how these guys are coached, so take it with a grain of salt. But he was very good at keeping track of receivers in his area. Keeps his head on a swivel and won’t get fooled by the QB. His lower body moves very fluidly. I haven’t seen him tested deep though.
-The one concern I have is that these DBs don’t get a lot of work defending deep passes. In live action, the team’s offense almost never throws the ball downfield more than 20-25 yards. A guy like Thompson needs to work on that part of his game, as does CB Apple, and it’s not happening much if at all in practice.
-DE Kerry Wynn had a very good day. He made an impact on 1 on 1 special team drills and during live team drills from his DE spot. He is a guy that the coaches know they can depend on. I am leaning towards his making this 53 man roster. He is definitely ahead of DE Taylor right now.
-DE Jason Pierre-Paul is dominating Giants OL during live drills and one on one’s. No matter who he is matched up against and no matter where he is lining up.
-Each day that passes, I am leaning more and more towards DE Owa Odighizuwa not being in the final picture. He did beat OT Jarron Jones a couple times, but other than that there is too much rigid lower body movement and a severe lack of reaction/quick twitch. Unfortunate but he just doesn’t seem to have it.
3 STANDOUTS
-TE Evan Engram: By far his best day of camp so far. We got to see a few special catches. With defenders draped all over him, twice he made a TD catch while barely sneaking in before the sideline/out of bounds line. He plays super fast but under control. He keeps on catching everything and there isn’t a defender on this team that is built for covering him. He is exciting in this short pass offense.
-S Eric Pinkins: This kid is certainly making a name for himself. Very impressive physically with his combination of size and speed. At 6’3/230 with zero bad weight, he brings a different level of physical prowess to the secondary. He can be a special teams demon which should get him on this 53 man roster, but I like him as a backup safety as well. There is a ton of upside here and if the team is patient, we may see something big.
-OG Jessamen Dunker: You know, this kid needs a year of weight room work from what I can see. He doesn’t quite fill his pants yet. But he plays strong. His lower body mechanics and athleticism are as good as any of the OL on this team. And he showed great hand placement and strength in one on ones. I want to say he is a lock for the practice squad but if he goes out and impressed in the games, I say there is a shot he is the last OL on the 53 man roster. He really is impressive.
See you guys Monday!
I'm also b=very happy to read about the progress of Dunker. I was glad when they signed him and my preference is 9 OL instead of 8. So, I'd like to see him stick.
Thanks Sy.
Pinkins is super athletic. Seahawks started him off playing CB. Moved him to LB. Not many can move around like that. He could be an interesting player for us.
Well, let's assume that Jerry does start at RG and Hart starts at RT. Then Fluker goes to the bench and backs up both of them.
I'm also b=very happy to read about the progress of Dunker. I was glad when they signed him and my preference is 9 OL instead of 8. So, I'd like to see him stick.
I am reserving legit 53 man roster and practice squad talk/predictions until after I see these guys play in a couple preseason games...
But if they do keep 9 OL, would they go in to the season with Fluker/Bisnowaty/Wheeler/Dunker as the backups? I say no way. There isn't anyone in there that plays OC AND going in with 3 out of 4 backups being rookies is very risky.
As of now I think Wheeler OR Dunker would e on 53 man roster despite the fact they play different positions.
Fluker will be the backup right side guy. If Hart or Jerry gets hurt or they really take a step back performance wise, then the gets on the field.
Quote:
.
I don't think Jerry is the assumed starter. I think the two of them are battling for the RG spot. Ther is an outside chance Fluker could end up at RT, although Hart seems to be winning that job.
Fluker hasn't gotten 1 snap with the first string. I don't think he is viewed as a starter, not for week 1 anyway.
Pinkins is super athletic. Seahawks started him off playing CB. Moved him to LB. Not many can move around like that. He could be an interesting player for us.
All things considered, he is one of the best athletes on the team. And he plays physical. There is a role for a guy like this. I think they keep 5 safeties, he should be one of them
I think so, yes. 5 safeties and 5 CBs can work.
Thanks for your contributions all year long.
maybe its has something to do with the Giants org has no idea what they are doing in drafting/developing LBs so Goodson fell thru the cracks...
:-)
Thanks for your contributions all year long.
I could be wrong, but I don't think that was an issue whatsoever last season. Why would that start now?
Quote:
I think it is a great observation and concern that our defensive backfield does not get enough practice and learning on deep pass plays because offensively we do little of that. We will be rabid when the first guy gets beat long and yet the players are not getting enough practice with that situation.
Thanks for your contributions all year long.
I could be wrong, but I don't think that was an issue whatsoever last season. Why would that start now?
Apple got beat bad in the GB game (3rd or 4th qtr). He was able to recover to make the tackle, but was clearly beat giving up a long reception. The other instance that stands out was against Det?. DRC got beat (I think he was expecting help over the top when there was none). With his elite speed, he was able to chase down the receiver from behind and saved a TD.
Especially considering how good this secondary played last season despite poor pass rush, I don't take that as a symptom of a larger problem. DRC is a 10 year vet. He knows how to play long routes. I could see the argument in Apple's case as a developing player, I suppose.
Berne always gets injured, so yes, we need five.
So, who is getting reps in the slot? How are they performing? I think the slot position is such a crucial position on any dedense in today's NFL. Imo, it is more difficult than playing on the outside in certain areas. The receivers get a three way go, there is no sideline help, you have to keep your head on a swivel, you need to know your run fits, you have to know the blitz schemes, etc. You aren't out on an ispand as much but this is a very unique position to try to fill. You cannot just find a guy off rhe street to come in and play there. Just the mental reps alone are challenging whereas, mentally, you can just pick up a corner on the street to play on the outside. It doesn't mean they can handle it physically but the slot position requires both.
Jerry starting over Fluker is going to piss off many on here
The MLB in most 4-3 schemes, in particular Spags' scheme, has SO MUCH mental responsibility. They really need to know the roles of all LBs, DL, and DBs inside and out.
Goodson may have been the most talented MLB candidate last year, but it probably didn't show because he wasn't reacting, he was thinking. That leads to slow playing...so I think it just came down to the mental side of the game last year.
Last year it was almost too easy to predict what was going to happen. This year there are serious questions all over the place.
Ellison isn't going to make a ton of plays up the seam or downfield. But I think this NYG passing game is very much about underneath throws and quick releases. Ellison has the dependable hands to be a factor there.
Quote:
To what do you attribute his rise from seldom-used rookie to starter - and looking like a damned good one - in his second year? Is it just hard work, dedication, that sort of thing? It seems almost miraculous to me.
The MLB in most 4-3 schemes, in particular Spags' scheme, has SO MUCH mental responsibility. They really need to know the roles of all LBs, DL, and DBs inside and out.
Goodson may have been the most talented MLB candidate last year, but it probably didn't show because he wasn't reacting, he was thinking. That leads to slow playing...so I think it just came down to the mental side of the game last year.
Thank you. I know you were pretty high on Goodson prior to the draft, and now it seems like he's justifying your faith in him, which has to make you feel good. It makes me feel good, too. I hope he can be as steady in the middle as AP was for us for several years. Sounds like he's on the right track.
I have been saying the same thing for awhile......I just don't think Darkwa can stay on the field.....I was pissed when the Eagles got Blount.....he is a tough short yardage guy, that has enough speed to break a big one....
I still think we need a veteran presence back there......if Perkins gets nicked, Vereen can't be the starter....Gallman is an unknown rookie.....maybe a late cut, or even a call to Deangelo happens...maybe, just maybe, he has one more season in him.....it's a gamble, but I would take him over Darkwa...
Quote:
I assume Adams is a lock, and I'm a big Berhe fan. I suppose the answer is no, just asking.
I think so, yes. 5 safeties and 5 CBs can work.
If Pinkins and Berhe are having good summers, wouldn't presume Adams is a lock...
As of now I think Wheeler OR Dunker would e on 53 man roster despite the fact they play different positions.
I'll tell you right now, no way Brett Jones gets cut. He is well respected and could be an excellent starting C. Will be interesting to see what they do with Richburg after the year.
Pinkins isn't "just" a S either. He can play slot CB, he can play OLB.
I think they'll keep 5 LB's, 5 CB's and 5 S's with Pinkins basically being a Wild Card that can back up all 3 positions and be a core 46'er.
You might call the new lineup the Hunter/Thompson defense. Will strike fear and loathing into opponents.
Jimmy Googs : 9:04 am : link : reply
If Pinkins and Berhe are having good summers, wouldn't presume Adams is a lock...
I would take Adams over Berhe any day of the week....
- with the safeties, I've got to think Berhe becomes the odd man out, even if they keep 5. He has problems staying healthy, has concussed often, if Munson flashes talent, and with Pinkins doing what you say, LC, DThompson, Adams, Pinkins, Munson? My sense: Berhe has never overwhelmed with his natural feel for the position.
- leftover question from Friday's thread (I put it up too late for you to comment): in Friday practice notes, you praised Wynn, mentioned the other DEs except for Okwara, and the question was whether it's just assumed he is the 3rd DE, thus no need to include him in the canvassing.
- OL, keeping 9?: sheesh, with Brett Jones the most experienced of the second group, except Fluker, and capable of playing C and G, seems a lock for the 53, then among Bis, Wheeler, Dunker, one of the latter group of three, at least, goes to PS, and a good chance he is claimed. Almost seems as though Flowers is the main retrograde in terms of improvement and potential.
Because he does stuff. He gets in the play as opposed to AA...
Quote:
Way too early of course, but it appears as both S and CB positions are deep and talented. We shall see..
Jerry starting over Fluker is going to piss off many on here
Count me as one. Sure Jerry does a decent job pass blocking, but he is a gigantic milk-toast in the run blocking department. If you want this O to fly, get the run game going. After three years of watching Jerry at RG, we know that is not going to happen if Jerry is the starting RG.
Is a milk-toast like a pre madonna, per say?
Quote:
In comment 13550485 Big Blue '56 said:
Quote:
Way too early of course, but it appears as both S and CB positions are deep and talented. We shall see..
Jerry starting over Fluker is going to piss off many on here
Count me as one. Sure Jerry does a decent job pass blocking, but he is a gigantic milk-toast in the run blocking department. If you want this O to fly, get the run game going. After three years of watching Jerry at RG, we know that is not going to happen if Jerry is the starting RG.
Is a milk-toast like a pre madonna, per say?
For all intensive purposes
Quote:
In comment 13550581 Beer Man said:
Quote:
In comment 13550485 Big Blue '56 said:
Quote:
Way too early of course, but it appears as both S and CB positions are deep and talented. We shall see..
Jerry starting over Fluker is going to piss off many on here
Count me as one. Sure Jerry does a decent job pass blocking, but he is a gigantic milk-toast in the run blocking department. If you want this O to fly, get the run game going. After three years of watching Jerry at RG, we know that is not going to happen if Jerry is the starting RG.
Is a milk-toast like a pre madonna, per say?
For all intensive purposes
A rather mute point.
Quote:
In comment 13550810 Gatorade Dunk said:
Quote:
In comment 13550581 Beer Man said:
Quote:
In comment 13550485 Big Blue '56 said:
Quote:
Way too early of course, but it appears as both S and CB positions are deep and talented. We shall see..
Jerry starting over Fluker is going to piss off many on here
Count me as one. Sure Jerry does a decent job pass blocking, but he is a gigantic milk-toast in the run blocking department. If you want this O to fly, get the run game going. After three years of watching Jerry at RG, we know that is not going to happen if Jerry is the starting RG.
Is a milk-toast like a pre madonna, per say?
For all intensive purposes
A rather mute point.
With french benefits.
not sure about his longevity . I would take Adams over him
if they keep five which they should and we finally get to
see just what we have in Thompson I'm just notsure how much we can depend on Darqua either as he has had his fair share of injuries . I DKN wasn't crazy about the Wayne Gallman I was hoping for a more of a bruising type back to me he seem's like a Perkins clone he is a tad bit bigger but watching his tape he is a gamer but he run's so upright I
just wondered if that translated to a short yardage type guy . Maybe there not done and add a vet there . Lastly were going with the same starting O-line and that
worries me a bit as well . Over all we have playmakers
and a damn good defense . So again will we be able to run the ball when we need to ?