Wednesday Reading

Giants

Schmeelk Giants.com: Notes and observations from minicamp practice (6/12)
https://www.giants.com/news/notes-and-observations-from-minicamp-practice-6-12

Salomone Giants.com: Who stood out at Giants minicamp? (6/12)
https://www.giants.com/news/who-stood-out-at-giants-minicamp-6-12

Traina Forbes.com: New York Giants Mandatory Minicamp: Notes and Takeaways from Day 1
https://www.forbes.com/sites/patriciatraina/2018/06/12/new-york-giants-mandatory-minicamp-notes-and-takeaways-from-day-1/amp/

Lombardo NJ.com: Takeaways from Giants minicamp Day 1 | Odell Beckham's first practice since being medically cleared
http://www.nj.com/giants/index.ssf/2018/06/odell_beckham_cleared_to_practice_takeaways_from_g.html

RV SNY: Giants notebook: Snacks excited to hit Barkley; Shurmur says Flowers is improving; and more
https://www.sny.tv/giants/news/giants-notebook-snacks-excited-to-hit-barkley-shurmur-says-flowers-is-improving-and-more/281009568

Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan)
6/12/18, 7:45 PM
9. Limited or did not practice:
WR Odell Beckham, S Landon Collins, S Darian Thompson, DT Josh Mauro, OLB Avery Moss

Offense

Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan)
6/12/18, 7:23 PM
7. First team offense:
QB Eli Manning
RB Jonathan Stewart/Saquon Barkley
WRs: Sterling Shepard, Hunter Sharp, Cody Latimer
TE Evan Engram/Rhett Ellison
OL Nate Solder, Will Hernandez, Jon Halapio, Patrick Omameh, Ereck Flowers

QB

Popper The Record: Giants' Eli Manning grateful for clean slate as he enters 15th season
https://www.northjersey.com/story/sports/columnists/steve-popper/2018/06/12/15-years-giants-eli-manning-grateful-clean-slate/696268002/

Eisen Gisnts.com: Eli Manning bullish on Giants offense in 2018
https://www.giants.com/news/eli-manning-sees-plenty-of-potential-for-giants-offense-in-2018

RB

Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan)
6/12/18, 6:57 PM
2. Saquon Barkley had a play where he ran a wheel route and beat LB BJ Goodson by a good 5 yards. Nothing for Goodson to be ashamed of as Barkley looks uncoverable for LBs and safeties

WR

Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan)
6/12/18, 6:52 PM
1. Odell Beckham didn’t do a ton but he looks good running and cutting after being cleared to practice. Doesn’t seem to be much to worry about with his ability to rebound from broken ankle.

Stapleton The Record: Odell Beckham Jr: Facts and fiction behind NY Giants WR's presence and contract quest
https://www.northjersey.com/story/sports/nfl/giants/2018/06/12/ny-giants-facts-and-fiction-behind-odell-beckham-jr-s-presence/694853002/

Leonard NYDN: Odell Beckham and Giants on same page, sources say, but give mixed messages at Giants minicamp
http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/football/giants/ny-sports-odell-beckham-leonard-20180612-story.html

Glauber Newsday: Time for Giants to get new deal done for Odell Beckham Jr.
https://www.newsday.com/sports/columnists/bob-glauber/giants-odell-beckham-jr-contract-1.19160302

Rock Newsday: Odell Beckham Jr. cleared to play, runs individual drills but sits out team drills
https://www.newsday.com/sports/football/giants/odell-beckham-injury-contract-1.19155983

RV SNY: Giants, Beckham moving cautiously ahead of potential contract showdown
https://www.sny.tv/giants/news/giants-beckham-moving-cautiously-ahead-of-potential-contract-showdown/280949506

Kussoy NYP: Giants receiver excited he’s going to be a father soon
https://nypost.com/2018/06/13/giants-receiver-excited-hes-going-to-be-a-father-soon/amp/

TE

Noonan Noontime Sports: Assumption’s Simonson Signs With New York Giants
https://noontimesports.com/2018/06/12/assumptions-simonson-signs-with-new-york-giants/amp/

C

Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan)
6/12/18, 7:00 PM
4. Jon Halapio again was the first-team center. I’d probably even call him the favorite to start right now.

LG

Lombardo NJ.com: Giants' Will Hernandez embracing role as Saquon Barkley's bodyguard, opens up about practice fights
http://www.nj.com/giants/index.ssf/2018/06/giants_will_hernandez_embracing_role_as_saquon_bar.html

Defense

Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan)
6/12/18, 7:27 PM
8. First-team defense:

DL: BJ Hill, Damon Harrison, Dalvin Tomlinson

LBs: Olivier Vernon, Alec Ogletree, BJ Goodson, Kareem Martin

CBs: Janoris Jenkins, Eli Apple and William Gay

Safeties: Andrew Adams and Curtis Riley

NT

Healy NYDN: Alec Ogletree could be difference-maker for Giants on defense, says Damon Harrison
http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/football/giants/ny-sports-ogletree-harrison-20180612-story.html

Dunleavy NJ.com: Why Giants' Damon Harrison can't wait to hit Saquon Barkley's 'ass' | 4 players catching Snacks' eye
http://www.nj.com/giants/index.ssf/2018/06/damon_harrison_cant_wait_to_hit_saquon_barkley_and.html

Rock Newsday: Damon Harrison can’t wait to hit Giants rookie Saquon Barkley at minicamp
https://www.newsday.com/sports/football/giants/giants-saquon-barkley-damon-harrison-1.19156409

ILB

Patricia Traina (@Patricia_Traina)
6/12/18, 1:50 PM
Alec Ogletree certainly looks at home in this defense. He was all over the place today making plays and getting everyone lined up. You can see he's having fun

OLB

Nisse NYP: Giants rookie LB soaking up the knowledge from veterans
https://nypost.com/2018/06/12/giants-rookie-lb-soaking-up-the-knowledge-from-veterans/

CB

Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan)
6/12/18, 6:59 PM
3. Seemed like a rough afternoon for CB Eli Apple. There were a handful of plays made in his vicinity.

Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan)
6/12/18, 7:20 PM
6. Donte Deayon had a strong day with several pass breakups. Appeared to sneak in a few first-team snaps late in practice as the nickel CB.

PK

Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan)
6/12/18, 7:02 PM
5. Aldrick Rosas had a good day kicking field goals. He made all eight of his kicks. Several appeared to be bombs (crappy sightlines made it impossible to tell how far).

NFL

Kelly The Ringer: The Most Underrated Position Groups in the NFL
https://www.theringer.com/platform/amp/nfl/2018/6/12/17451562/nfl-underrated-position-groups-breakout

ARIZONA
Weinfuss ESPN AZ: Sam Bradford takes part in Cardinals' drills, feels 'really good right now'
http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/23774539/sam-bradford-arizona-cardinals-takes-part-team-drills-feels-really-good-right-now

ATLANTA
Bradley AJC: The Falcons will try to make Julio happy. But can they?
https://www.ajc.com/blog/mark-bradley/the-falcons-will-try-make-julio-happy-but-can-they/le1ZIfGu0ALVsiZK2t6iWP/

Ledbetter AJC: Quinn, Jones talk but little revealed on star wide receiver’s minicamp absence
https://www.myajc.com/sports/football/with-julio-jones-out-quinn-worked-with-wide-receivers-minicamp/DBP7XaTE1xVC98qKVuhmRN/

Marcovitch AJC: Schraeder, now a veteran, eager to take on leadership role
https://www.ajc.com/sports/schraeder-now-veteran-eager-take-leadership-role/ndiqRv0k6VzydlQtNeufnN/

BALTIMORE
Walker Baltimore Sun: Ravens notes: Harbaugh downplays impact of lost OTA workouts
http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/ravens/ravens-insider/bs-sp-ravens-notes-0612-story.html

Hensley ESPN Baltimore: QB Lamar Jackson lining up at other positions during Ravens practices
http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/23771497/baltimore-ravens-quarterback-lamar-jackson-lining-other-positions-team-practices

BUFFALO
Maiorana Rochester Democrat: Shaq Lawson knows his job is on the line, and he’s ready to fight for it
https://amp.democratandchronicle.com/amp/695280002

CAROLINA
Rodrigue Charlotte Observer: Carolina Panthers minicamp highlights, including early candidate for play of the week
http://www.charlotteobserver.com/sports/nfl/carolina-panthers/article213016314.html

Person Charlotte Observer: Panthers graybeard is healthy, looking to leave tank on empty at end of final season
http://amp.charlotteobserver.com/sports/nfl/carolina-panthers/article213012574.html

Rodrigue Charlotte Observer: Panthers LB Luke Kuechly says he misses hitting people. How long before he can start?
http://www.charlotteobserver.com/sports/nfl/carolina-panthers/article213016244.html

CHICAGO
Biggs Chicago Tribune: Bears Q& A: How does offense stack up to '17 Chiefs? What position battles loom on offensive line?
http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/ct-spt-bears-mailbag-offense-biggs-20180612-story.html

CINCINNATI
Owczarski Cin Enquirer: Cincinnati Bengals tight end Tyler Eifert misses start of mini-camp
https://amp.cincinnati.com/amp/694684002

Morrison Dayton Daily News: Cincinnati Bengals: Price benches 305, nears full medical clearance
https://www.daytondailynews.com/sports/cincinnati-bengals-price-benches-305-nears-full-medical-clearance/0YzQOJT3wfwU28JmvzVa7H/amp.html

CLEVELAND
Labbe Cleveland Plain Dealer: Browns counting on Duke Johnson to do even more this season and he's embracing the challenge
https://articles.cleveland.com/browns/index.ssf/2018/06/browns_counting_on_duke_johnso.amp

Cabot Cleveland Plain Dealer: A grateful Josh Gordon 'looking to make a really big splash' with a rare offseason under his belt
http://www.cleveland.com/browns/index.ssf/2018/06/a_grateful_josh_gordon_looking.html

Cabot Cleveland Plain Dealer: Jabrill Peppers must earn the strong safety job, one no-show and other things we learned at Browns minicamp
https://www.cleveland.com/browns/index.ssf/2018/06/jabrill_peppers_must_earn_the.html

DALLAS
Davison Fort Worth Star Telegram: 5 takeaways from Day 1 of Cowboys' minicamp
http://amp.star-telegram.com/sports/nfl/dallas-cowboys/article213049554.html

Machota Dallas Morning News: Cole Beasley sees hungry Cowboys WR group motivated to 'prove a lot of people wrong'
https://sportsday.dallasnews.com/dallas-cowboys/cowboys/2018/06/12/after-frustrating-2017-cole-beasley-sees-hungry-cowboys-wr-group-motivatedto-prove-lot-people-wrong

Davison Fort Worth Star Telegram: Deal isn't finalized, but Cowboys' Zack Martin has no desire to reach free agency
http://www.star-telegram.com/sports/nfl/dallas-cowboys/article213040149.html

Hairopolous Dallas Morning News: What Zack Martin's impending extension means for Dak, Zeke, and Earl Thomas to Cowboys speculation
https://sportsday.dallasnews.com/dallas-cowboys/cowboys/2018/06/12/zack-martins-impending-extension-means-dak-zeke-earl-thomas-cowboys-speculation

Robinson Yahoo Sports: Source: After lengthy meeting, Randy Gregory's NFL reinstatement is 'in Roger's hands'
https://sports.yahoo.com/source-randy-gregorys-nfl-reinstatement-rogers-hands-230002082.html

DENVER
O’Halloran Denver Post: Denver Broncos mini-camp: Recap of practice No. 1
https://www.denverpost.com/2018/06/12/denver-broncos-mini-camp-day-1-recap/

Klis 9News Denver: BIG CHANGE IN BRONCOS OFFENSE: QUICK-THROWING KEENUM
https://www.9news.com/amp/article?section=sports& headline=big-change-in-broncos-offense-quick-throwing-keenum& contentId=73-563836801

DETROIT
Monarrez Detroit Free Press: Detroit Lions Nevin Lawson could be in for another fight to keep his job
https://amp.freep.com/amp/694264002

GREEN BAY
Hodkiewicz Packers.com: Minicamp is “a great opportunity” for Packers’ young QBs
https://www.packers.com/news/minicamp-is-a-great-opportunity-for-packers-young-qbs

Wood Mil JS: Packers safety Kentrell Brice pleased with progress after ankle surgery
https://www.packersnews.com/story/sports/nfl/packers/2018/06/12/packers-safety-kentrell-brice-after-ankle-surgery/696041002/

HOUSTON
Wilson Houston Chronicle: Texans rookie Martinas Rankin recovering from foot surgery
https://www.chron.com/sports/texans/amp/Texans-rookie-Martinas-Rankin-recovering-from-12988621.php

McClain Houston Chronicle: What Texans have learned about top pick Justin Reid
https://www.houstonchronicle.com/sports/texas-sports-nation/texans/article/What-Texans-have-learned-about-top-pick-Justin-12989031.php

INDIANAPOLIS
Doyel Indianapolis Star: Andrew Luck's head told his shoulder it's time to throw
https://amp.indystar.com/amp/690401002

JACKSONVILLE
Reid Florida Times Union: Leonard Fournette arrives for Jaguars mandatory minicamp in shape
http://www.jacksonville.com/sports/20180612/leonard-fournette-arrives-for-jaguars-mandatory-minicamp-in-shape?

Kaye WTLV Jacksonville: JAGUARS CORNERBACK JALEN RAMSEY DEEMS THIRD OFFSEASON AS 'NO SETBACK SEASON'
https://www.firstcoastnews.com/article/sports/nfl/jacksonville-jaguars/jaguars-cornerback-jalen-ramsey-deems-offseason-as-no-setback-season/77-563755325

Heilman Florida Times Union: Jaguars CB Jalen Ramsey: 'Stay tuned' for even better season
http://www.jacksonville.com/sports/20180612/jaguars-cb-jalen-ramsey-stay-tuned-for-even-better-season?

LOS ANGELES
Woike LA Times: Chargers wideouts receive plenty of praise for their versatility as minicamp opens
http://www.latimes.com/sports/chargers/la-sp-chargers-camp-report-20180612-story.html

LOS ANGELES RAMS
Hernandez LA Times: Rams might look super on paper, but they'll need Jared Goff to step up and deliver
http://www.latimes.com/sports/rams/la-sp-rams-goff-hernandez-20180612-story.html

MIAMI
Jackson Miami Herald: These young Dolphins offensive players are showing encouraging signs
http://amp.miamiherald.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/barry-jackson/article212807954.html

Schad Palm Beach Post: Miami Dolphins excited about Isaiah Ford’s ‘very productive’ spring
http://dailydolphin.blog.palmbeachpost.com/2018/06/12/miami-dolphins-excited-about-isaiah-fords-very-productive-spring/

Perkins Sun Sentinel: Dolphins use ex-college quarterbacks A.J. Derby, MarQueis Gray as tight ends
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/miami-dolphins/fl-sp-dolphins-tes-20180612-story.html

Perkins Sun Sentinel: Akeem Spence openly accepts Dolphins' leadership role
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/miami-dolphins/fl-sp-dolphins-akeem-spence-20180612-story.html

MINNESOTA
Jones USA Today: Kirk Cousins finally feeling the love in Minnesota but knows he must take loaded Vikings to next level
https://amp.usatoday.com/amp/696141002

NEW ENGLAND
Reiss ESPN Boston: Patriots cancel final two OTAs; next up is training camp
http://www.espn.com/blog/new-england-patriots/post/_/id/4813835/patriots-cancel-final-two-otas-next-up-is-training-camp

Buckley Boston Herald: Tom Brady’s new approach is half the story
http://www.bostonherald.com/sports/columnists/steve_buckley/2018/06/buckley_tom_brady_s_new_approach_is_half_the_story?

NEW ORLEANS
Erickson NO Advocate: Saints RB Mark Ingram: Decision to skip OTAs wasn't related to contract
http://www.theadvocate.com/new_orleans/sports/saints/article_6e64f3ba-6e7b-11e8-9af0-9fb2a6ed66cd.html

Dabe Nola.com: Saints bring 'fastest man in college football' in for minicamp tryout
"I've been training just to get back to this point here," said Snead, whose hamstring tear occurred roughly a three months after he joined the Giants as an undrafted free agent. The Giants released him soon after the injury and he since has not signed with another team.”
https://articles.nola.com/saints/index.ssf/2018/06/kevin_snead_saints_tryout.amp

Katzenstein Nola.com: Saints' Andrus Peat expects to be healthy for training camp
https://articles.nola.com/saints/index.ssf/2018/06/andrus_peat_saints_2018.amp

NEW YORK JETS
Sears NYP: Jets’ big-ticket free agent expected to boost offensive line
https://nypost.com/2018/06/13/jets-big-ticket-free-agent-expected-to-boost-offensive-line/amp/

Braziller NYP: Jamal Adams amps up Jets’ secondary hype: No one’s better
https://nypost.com/2018/06/12/jamal-adams-amps-up-jets-secondary-hype-no-ones-better/amp/

OAKLAND
Sando ESPN: Raiders cut Christian Hackenberg
http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/23773361/oakland-raiders-cut-christian-hackenberg

Kawahara SF Chronicle: Khalil Mack absent for start of Raiders’ mandatory minicamp
https://www.sfgate.com/raiders/article/Khalil-Mack-absent-for-start-of-Raiders-12989177.php

Gehlken LV Review Journal: Raiders find defensive hope amid Khalil Mack’s holdout
https://www.reviewjournal.com/sports/raiders-nfl/raiders/raiders-find-defensive-hope-amid-khalil-macks-holdout/amp/

PHILADELPHIA
Kempski Phillyvoice: Eagles minicamp observations: Rookie project shows off explosiveness
http://www.phillyvoice.com/eagles-minicamp-observations-rookie-project-josh-sweat-explosiveness/amp/

Murphy Phil.com: In the last leg of Nick Foles' victory lap with Eagles, he is a hero for introverts
http://www.philly.com/philly/columnists/david_murphy/nick-foles-eagles-super-bowl-doug-pederson-minicamp-preseason-20180612.html

Kempski Phillyvoice: Eagles OL coach Jeff Stoutland's many thoughts on his offensive linemen
http://www.phillyvoice.com/eagles-ol-coach-jeff-stoutlands-jason-peters-recovery-isaac-seumalo-jordan-mailata/amp/

Fierro Allentown Morning Call: Michael Bennett returns as Eagles boast perfect attendance at mandatory minicamp
http://www.mcall.com/sports/football/eagles/mc-spt-eagles-michael-bennett-20180612-story.html

McLane Phil.com: Michael Bennett stands out in Eagles' minicamp appearance
http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/eagles/michael-bennett-eagles-minicamp-otas-charged-practice-doug-pederson-20180612.html

Shorr Parks NJ.com: Eagles' Sidney Jones not concerned about 'soreness' holding him out of practice
https://articles.nj.com/eagles/index.ssf/2018/06/eagles_sidney_jones_not_concerned_about_soreness.amp

PITTSBURGH
Pandanilam Pittsburgh Post Gazette: Jerome Bettis: 'OTAs have gotten too publicized
http://www.post-gazette.com/sports/steelers/2018/06/12/Jerome-Bettis-otas-antonio-brown-leveon-bell-ben-roethlisberger-mason-rudolph/stories/201806120110

Bouchette Pittsburgh Post Gazette: Randy Fichtner is the Steelers' new lightning rod. He's OK with it
http://www.post-gazette.com/sports/steelers/2018/06/12/randy-fichtner-ben-roethlisberger-qb-sneak-mike-tomlin-todd-haley/stories/201806120135

Dulac Pittsburgh Post Gazette: Antonio Brown returns, speaks and vents: 'I can’t really express myself in this game'
http://www.post-gazette.com/sports/steelers/2018/06/12/Antonio-Brown-I-started-to-think-to-myself-Am-I-really-free-I-can-t-really-express-myself-in-this-game/stories/201806120094

SAN FRANCISCO
Barrows Sac Bee: 49ers enter final week of the offseason; here's the depth chart
http://amp.sacbee.com/sports/nfl/san-francisco-49ers/article213016929.html

Inman SJ Mercury News: 49ers minicamp highlights: Pettis shines, Foster starts, Sherman debuts
https://www.mercurynews.com/2018/06/12/top-10-49ers-minicamp-highlights-pettis-shines-foster-starts-sherman-debuts/amp/

Williams NBC Bay Area: 49ers Eager to See What Tight End Trio Can Do in 2018
https://www.nbcbayarea.com/news/local/Niners-Eager-to-See-What-Tight-End-Trio-Can-Do-in-2018-485255061.html

Barrows Sac Bee: 49ers' Richard Sherman takes field, feels 'light years' better than last year
http://amp.sacbee.com/sports/nfl/san-francisco-49ers/article212847794.html

SEATTLE
Henderson ESPN Seattle: Russell Wilson, Brian Schottenheimer beginning their crucial partnership
http://www.espn.com.au/blog/seattle-seahawks/post/_/id/30868/russell-wilson-brian-schottenheimer-beginning-their-crucial-partnership

Stone Seattle Times: Seahawks scenarios with Earl Thomas playing this season seem unlikely
https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/seahawks/seahawks-scenarios-with-earl-thomas-playing-this-season-seem-unlikely/

TAMPA BAY
Greg Auman (@gregauman)
6/13/18, 6:31 AM
As Bucs look to upgrade defense in 2018, worth noting that four players who played 400+ snaps last year and weren't brought back (Ayers, Russell, McClain, Ward) remain unsigned, three months after free agency window opened.

Smith Buccaneers.com: Jason Pierre-Paul Expecting One of His Best Seasons
http://buccaneers.com/news/article-smith/Jason-Pierre-Paul-Expecting-One-of-His-Best-Seasons/420a2e86-7da3-4cdd-b318-dd369046de1e

Stroud TB Times: Jason Pierre-Paul is only in a rush to get to the quarterback
http://www.tbo.com/blogs/bucs/2018/06/12/bucs-jason-pierre-paul-says-he-can-make-up-for-lost-time-im-a-pro/

TENNESSEE
Wolf The Tennessean: Titans' Taylor Lewan skips mandatory minicamp, seeks contract extension
https://amp.tennessean.com/amp/691040002

WASHINGTON
Huskey Washington Times: Jamison Crowder seeks to be more of a focal point in Redskins offense
https://amp.washingtontimes.com/news/2018/jun/12/jamison-crowder-seeks-be-more-focal-point-redskins/

Copeland Washington Post: Zach Brown flashes his speed as Redskins begin mandatory minicamp
https://www.washingtonpost.com/amphtml/news/football-insider/wp/2018/06/12/zach-brown-flashes-his-speed-as-redskins-begin-mandatory-minicamp/

Myers Richmond Times Dispatch: Now in his second season, Torrian Gray lets loose on the Redskins practice field
http://www.richmond.com/redskins-xtra/now-in-his-second-season-torrian-gray-lets-loose-on/article_e8e75d08-2bc7-5ee6-8e0b-48826faf5da2.html

Draft

Trapasso CBS Sports: 2019 NFL Draft: Questions each NFC team must answer before making their plans
https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2019-nfl-draft-questions-each-nfc-team-must-answer-before-making-their-plans/amp/

DT
Jeremiah NFL.com: Scouting Ed Oliver: Houston DT has Aaron Donald-like promise
https://amp.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000936825/article/scouting-ed-oliver-houston-dt-has-aaron-donaldlike-promise?

History

Giants Training Camp Previews from prior seasons

1978: 16 Games and what do you get; high hopes for the D but an offense deeper in debt, an exhibition win illustrates the disparity in the two units...

05-09-1978

NYT: Giants Open Early Camp With Optimism in the Air

“The Giants opened a three& #8208;day training camp today& #8208;10 weeks before summer practice and 116 days before their season opener,& #8208;with all the optimism of an undefeated and untied team.

Draft choices met veterans for the first time as 88 of the 89 players on the roster—John Mendenhall, whose wife is ailing, was excused—reported to Coach John McVay at Giants Stadium.

“It's nice to have them here,” said McVay. “I hate sitting in my office.”

“Look at all them offensiVe linemen,” said Larry Csonka, the fullback.

“,Looks like we've got some horses here. When I went to pick up my towels, I noticed I was looking at chests. Ten years ago when I was in a loker room, I usually was looking down at people.”

The main new horse is Gordon King, the first& #8208;round draft choice from Stanford. The 6& #8208;foot& #8208;5˝ inch King, a star at left tackle in college, worked today lat right guard, where the Giants have a definite opening since John Hicks was traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers.

McVay said the Giants would look at King as both tackle and guard but indicated that the team needed guards ;more. Gordon Gravelle and Ron Miko& #8208;’ lajczyk, last year's starting tackles, he said, were “adequate.” Jim Clack, obtained in the Hicks ‘trade, “solidified” the center position, McVay added, but guard was another thing.

Doug Van Horn, now 35 years old and starting his 12th National Football :League season, played well last season at left guard. Mike Gibbons, a converted tackle who took over from Hicks late last season, and Tom Mullen, who has had four operations in his fouryear professional career, are the leading candidates for right guard.

King said he did not mind moving out of position.

“I think it's a matter of coming in and having an open mind and a positive attitude,” he said. “This may not be a permanent thing. They may just want to look at me there for a couple Of days. It may be different at training camp.”

King impressed observers today with his pass& #8208;blocking. The big curly& #8208;haired blond lineman, who bench presses more than 450 pounds and who has run 40 yards in 4.9 seconds, may be good enough to play wherever McVay wants him.

“He looks like the kind of guy you wouldn't want to sit down next to and take away his coffee,” said Cacnka.

“Not with him looking.”

As King was surrounded by newsmen, last year's first& #8208;round draft choice, Gary Jeter, was laughing.

“I'm not No. 1 anymore,” said the defensive lineman. “There's no more pressure on me.”

Bill (Boone) Bryant said he did not feel any pressure, either, although the Giants drafted two cornerbacks, including Odis McKinney of Colorado, their second& #8208;round choice.

“The only pressure I feel is in the games,” said Bryant, last season's starting left cornerback. “This is nothing.”

McKinney underwent knee surgery last November but should be ready for the opening of training cant July 15. He introduced himself to Bill Swiacki, the tight end who was drafted in the ninth round.

“Where'd you play?” McKinney asked the son of the former star for Columbia and the Giants. .

“Amherst.”

“Where's that?”

McKinney did not seem sure of where he was today. The 6& #8208;2 cornerback said he still was unable to cut sharply. But then Bryant was not 100 percent, either. The veteran underwent surgery in February on his left foot, which had become infected.

“It was so bad I couldn't turn over in bed,” he said.

Bryant and Ray Rhodes, his buddy who started at right cornerback last year, agreed that at this point the defense was ahead of the offense, which was far off in its timing. But Rhodes was impressed with one of the rookie wide receivers, Brian DeRoo of Redlands.

“He's got good overall speed and a good feel for the ball,” said Rhodes.

DeRoo, obtained on the fifth round with the draft choice the Giants received from the Denver Broncos for Craig Morton, is an all& #8208;round athlete. The 6& #8208;3 wide receiver is also a barefoot soccer& #8208;style place& #8208;kicker and he has reached the finals of the National Association for Intercollegiate Athletics decathlon competition later this month at Abilene, Tex.”

7-26-1978

NYT: Giants Eying Jim Clack For Key Center Position

PLEASANTVILLE, N.Y., July 25 — It all starts with the center, which why Jim Clack is probably the most closely watched player at the Giants’ training camp. Jim Clack is probably the Giants’ starting center this season.

“The center and the quarterback,” said Jerry Wamphler, the new offensive line coach today, “you're talking about the backbone of the offense.”

Jim Trimble, the Giants’ pro personnel director, says when he was a coach he used to tell his teams that the quarterback was “my emmissary on the field — he's the coach when I'm not there.”

“And then I'd call my center to the side and remind him, ‘Remember, the quarterback ain't worth a damn if you don't give him the ball,'” said Trimble.

Center 's Stock Up Since ‘65

The center's importance has increased since 1965, the last time Trimble was a head Coach, and even since the last time Clack played the position regularly in the National Football League for the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1974.

More and more teams use either 3& #8208;4 defenses with a nose guard directly opposite the center, or “over& #8208;and& #8208;under” 4& #8208;3 defenses with a tackle inches away from the center's helmet. Coach John McVay said in eight of the Giants’ 16 games this season, the center would be “under the gun.”

Ever since Greg Larson retired after the 1973 season, the Giants have looked for a center. A succession of coaches have looked at other centers and then gone back to Karl Chandler, who became the regular in 1974. Chandler is still very much with the team and not about to give up his job to Clack, the same way he did not quietly give in to Ralph Hill, who began 1977 as the Giants’ starting center and who began 1978 with the Toronto Argonauts.

Bigger Not Necessarily Better

Chandler, at 6 feet 5 inches, 250 pounds, is bigger than Clack, who is 6& #8208;3, 245. But. Wamphler said bigger was not necessarily better anymore.

“Instead of the big slow centers, you'd better have quickness,” said Wamphler. “It'd be nice to have someone big and strong too, but the main thing is quickness. Centers used to be able to take a high stance, which made it more ‘comfortable for the quarterback to receive the ball, he didn't have to bend down so much. But the centers didn't have to make contact right away after the snap; now, the minute his hand moves on the ball, that 280& #8208;pound guy over him is going to smack him.”

Clack was acquired from the Steelers in the offseason with Ernie Pough; a wide receiver with an excellent chance of sticking, for John Hicks.

Clack was a regular guard on the Steelers’ two Super. Bowl championship teams, but center is his regular position. It's where he played at Wake Forest, and where he played his first five seasons with Pittsburgh.

“Even the last three years, when was a guard, they kept me in contact with the position,” said Clack with his soft Carolina accent. “I'd play at least a half of the preseason games there.k

“The theory at Pittsburgh was if you can play center, you can play any place on the line. Playing with the ball is so much harder than playing without it.”

“Clack's a little rusty,” said Wamphler, “but he reminds me of a rookie the way he's so hungry to learn. It's no surprise that he's been treated with so much respect by the other guys. He's good people.”

“He's very quickly been absorbed into the team,” said McVay. “It's like he's been here 20 years.”

Clack, who felt that being traded after a good season was ‘a slap in the-face,” thought seriously about retiring instead. He'll be 31 years old Oct. 26 and has a growing business in his hometown of Rocky Mount, N.C. buying and restoring old homes and then, selling them — with his wife, Becky, whom he is divorcing.

“She's still working for me,” said illy curly& #8208;haired, bearded center. “I know it sounds. strange, but she's got super talent for decorating.”

7-30-1978

Asbury Park Press, Sun. July 30, 1978 Robustelli Gleaming About Grid Giants' Chances in '78

“Andy Robustelli walks around the football Giants training camp with a gleam in his eye although remaining cautiously optimistic when talking about the team's chances in the upcoming National -Football League season. Robustelli, a member of the NFL Hall of Fame, is one of the league's all-time success stories. Drafted by the Los Angeles Rams on the 19th round from little Arnold College in Connecticut, he went on to earn All Pro honors in nine of his 14 seasons. "I played a long time, long enough to know it's not what you say but what you do," said Robustelli, who serves as the Giants' director of operations. "We have to look and see where we can do better." Robustelli said he's been impressed with the Giants early in the camp but the team has a long way to go before calling itself a contender. "We can't look at ourselves and say what . we'd like to be you have to look at what we are," he said. "We finished 5-9 last year but probably could have been 7-7. But we weren't, so it doesn't make a difference." As the Giants were going through drills, a member of the offensive line missed a block and the quarterback was unable to get a pass off. "If one player breaks down," he said. "Every player mist be one play better. We have to eliminate the little mistakes. We've got some growing to do and we'll be better for it." Robustelli dismissed the
idea that the Giants schedule, which includes games with Buffalo, Kansas City and Tampa Bay twice should work to the Giants advantage.

We're not a championship caliber team, we can't take anybody lightly," he said. "Just as we think we're getting better, these teams are, too. ' , "Teams like Dallas, the good teams with better personnel and execution, gets you over games you should win," he said. "We're not at that point. "It's a long crossroads and it's a helluva way to the other side hard work will do it," he said. Robustelli said he doesn't expect the Giants to make any major deals before the Sept. 2 season opener at Tampa Bay. "When you are like us, you only talk to teams about trades when you are drastically weak in one area," he said. "We're not like that. I'm satisifed we got a shot at getting players out of what we have here."

CAMP NOTES: Joe Pisarcik was asked the annual question of quarterbacks: Would he be calling his own plays this year or would the coaches continue to call them from the press box? "If your job was on the line, would you want me to call all the plays," Pisarcik said

Coach John McVay laughed when Plsarcik's answer was relayed. "He's got the right idea," said McVay. "Fran Tarkenton is the only quarterback I know that calls all his own plays. We've got a guy in the press box with a computer print out of every possible formation, so he calls them." '

Pisarcik started the last 11 games of 1977, Jerry Golsteyn has had a fine camp so far and second year man Randy Dean is developing. "I have a lot of belief and confidence in those guys," McVay said. "Joe finished up No. 1 last year and comes into camp as the incumbent. The three of them are coming along and learning how to read defenses, learning coverages, that's a big step in their development."

There are a total of 10 defensive backs in camp, including second round .draft choice Odis McKinney and fifth round choice Terry Jackson. Both are cornerbacks. The incumbents corners are Ray Rhodes and Bill Bryant.

All 10 in camp are pretty decent," McVay said. "We'll start with the guys from last year, but there's competition going on for jobs. Competition will make us a better football team. I've got to feel there are a helluva lot positions on this team that can open up. "I want to re-emphasize that as a group the secondary improved greatly the seccnd half of the year. We paid the price last year to experience a lot of people. They paid their dues."

Howard Livingston Poughkeepsie Journal staff writer

PLEASANTVILLE: “Competition is becoming Intense at the football Giants stammer training camp as roster cutdowns begin. One of the more interesting competitions is the one for defensive lineman. The Giants, tike most teams in the NFL, will carry only six defensive linemen, and of the six spots available, five are nailed down by the regulars Mendenhall, Gregory, Archer, Martin, and last year's number one draft choice Gary Jeter. This leaves only one spot up for grabs. There are four candidates for the one spot Jim Krahl, fifth round draft choice out of Texas Tech; Dennis Helm, 11th round choice from Southwest Missouri State, and two free agents, Bob Moore from Boston College and Steve Brown from .T v. William Patterson. While It Is still early In training, Krahl seems to be several lengths out front In the competition. Krahl is part of the Giants "Intellectual move ment." This summer the rookie training camp is populated with Ivy Leaguers, a Stanford graduate, and a medical school aspirant. As for Krahl's credentials as a member of the "intellectual movement," his father is a professor of Structural Engineering at Rice University; his mother is a high school social studies teacher in the Houston, Texas, schools; and his sister is majoring in English at the University of Texas. While It might be questionable as to what these credentials have to do with Jim Krahl's quickness in getting off i the line at the snap. It is this quickness that is making the impres sion at the Giants' training camp at Pace University. Unlike most rookie defensive linemen who try to overpower their opponent on the offensive line a tactical error, Krahl has been beating his opponent with speed and finesse. tt is this combination of "smarts" and speed that have caused people at camp to take notice. When asked about Krahl, head coach John McVay commented, "He's a big strong, bright guy who learned a lot last week when the rookies were here In camp alone, and he's going to learn a lot more now with the veterans in." Improving Is the name of the game for Krahl. He went from substitute defensive tackle as a sophomore at Texas Tech to honorable mention on the United Press 1977 All America team. His coaches at Texas Tech feel with his capacity to improve constantly, Krahl should have no trouble making a name for himself in the pros. Time is the only thing Jim Krahl has to worry about: time to get experience necessary to play In the NFL; time .to. polish his technical skills so that he can handle the likes of Tom DeLeone and Doug Dieken, veteran Cleveland offensive linemen he may meet in the Giants first exhibition game August 7th.”

08-08-1978

NYT: Browns Bow, 21 to 7; Archer Sidelined

“The Giants, after learning that a second starter, Troy Archer, would miss at least the, first two National Football League regular& #8208;season games, won their preseason opener tonight against the Cleveland Browns. 21& #8208;7.

The Giants would rather lose exhibition games than star right ‘tackles for any length of time, but even without Archer the tough Giant defense was impressive in muddy old Cleveland Stadium.

The 23& #8208;year& #8208;old Archer suffered broken fifth metatarsal bone in his right foot during practice Friday and will be sidelined at least six weeks, according Dr. John Marehall, the team's orthopedic surgeon. Only a week ago, Marshall operated on the knee of Emery Morehead, a starting wide receiver, who will also probably miss the first two games after the regular season starts Sept. 2.

Jeter Replaces Archer

Archer was replaced by Gary Jeter, last year's first& #8208;round draft choice, who was thus able to return to his home town as a professional for the first time as a starter. Jeter playdd like an overzealous rookie at times, but the Giants’ front four, which Coach’ John McVay. calls “intimidating,” held Cleveland's running game to 120 yards.

The Giant defense held Cleveland to only three first downs in the second half until the final three minutes, when a 75yard drive led by Terry Luck, the third Brown quarterback, culminated in a 6yard touchdown pass to Keith Wright, a rookie from Memphis State. That touchdown cut the Giants’ lead to 14& #8208;7 with only 1 minute 28 seconds to play.

But after Wright recovered Don Cockroft's onside kickoff, the Giant defense rose again. Jack Gregory, a former Brown and now the Giants’ defensive captain, was rushing Luck when the Cleveland quarterback dropped back to pass. The ball, wet from the rain, the mud and the humidity, slipped out of Luck's hands and into Gregory's.

Gregory put on a couple of fakes, as if he were a halfback, and because no Brown was close to him he ran 38 yards for a touchdown.

Giants Complete 3 Passes

The Ciiant offense did little better than the Browns, with only three pass completions in 16 attempts. Joe Pisarcik, who played the entire first half, completed two passes to Al Dixon, the tight end. The second, for 19 yards, helped set up the Giants’ first touchdown, a 3& #8208;yard run by Willie Spencer with 5:56 remaining in the first half.

Spencer, a veteran halfback whose job is in jeopardy because of two fine rookie running backs, Dan Doornink and Billy Taylor, then set up the Giants’ second touchdown with a lumbering 55& #8208;yard run in the third quarter. The 240& #8208;pound halfback was freed at the line of scrimmage by a block from Bill Ellenbogen, a reserve left guard, and by one downfield from Doornink.

On the next play Jerry Golsteyn hit Taylor, a 216& #8208;pound halfback with outside speed, over the middle with a 15yard scoring pass. It was Golsteyn's only completion in eight attempts. Pisarcik was two for seven, and Randy Dean, who quarterbacked only one series, was nothing for one as the Giants passed for only 71 yards.

But the offensive line permitted no quarterback sacks and helped open a 205& #8208;yard running game. Spencer, with 59 yards on three carries, led the way, but Doornink, who played a lot at fullback because Larry Csonka was held out with a respitory ailment, gained 53 on 11 rushes. The seventh& #8208;round draft choice from Washington State — a “steal”, the Giants say, because other N.F.L. teams were afraid the babyfaced 210& #8208;pound fullback would enter medical school instead of playing professional football — also blocked well.

Gordon King, this year's first& #8208;round draft choice, entered the game in the second half at left tackle with Gordon Gravelle moving to right tackle on the offensive line.

The Defense, As Usual

But as usual, it was the Giant defense that carried the team. The Giants sacked Cleveland quarterbacks four times — two by George Martin, the left end — and the linebacking trio of Brad Van Pelt, Harry Carson and Brian Kelley that played for three quarters was in midseason form.

The secondary, the weakest part of the defense last year when the team posted a 5.9 won& #8208;lost record, seemed much improved. Ray Rhodes, the starting right cornerback, and Ernie Jones, the second& #8208;string free safety, were the most impressive.

But the Browns, playing their first game for Coach Sam Rutigliano of Brooklyn, a former Erasmus Hall High School player and Lafayette High coacn, helped by doing a very fine imitation of the recent Giant offenses. The only fireworks to entertain most of the 30,636 spectators were at halftime, when the old stadium sounded as if it were being dynamited during a fireworks display.

The Giants, who were beginning to worry about an injury jinx, apparently suffered no major injuries during the game. Even Spencer, who was playing with apparently the same ailment that sidelined Csonka, managed to survive his 55& #8208;yard run.

‘Thought It Was 30

“Was that what it was, 55 yards?” Spencer asked. “I thought it was more like 30.”

But it was only an exhibition game, and the Giants could not celebrate too much with Archer on the sidelines. The 1976 first& #8208;round draft choice, whom many of his teammates believe should have been voted to the Pro Bowl squad last season ahead of Randy White of the Dallas Cowboys, was injured when someone stepped on his foot during practice Friday. Archer thought it was just another bruise he would have to play with and did not show the foot, by now swollen badly, to Dr. Allan Levy, the team physician, until Saturday.

Levy ordered precautionary X-rays

Saturday night. On the plane trip here, the pictures were delivered to Marshall, who put the foot in a cast today.

“You can't run on it and have heal,” said Marshall. “We'll take Xrays of it periodically to see how it's doing, but usually it takes about six weeks. It's the kind of injury basketball players get often. Nate Archibald had it.”

09-02-1978

Barry Stanton' Special to the Poughkeepsie Journal

“The New York Giants are in Tampa Bay to take on the much - improved Buccaneers tonight at 8 p.m. in the opening game of the National Football League's expanded 16 - game season.

The Giants will begin another season, hopefully rebuilt, but injuries to defensive tackle Troy Archer, linebacker Brad Van Pelt, and cornerback Odis McKinney will hamper the team's strongest unit. The win is a must for the Giants. With a home - opener against defending champion Dallas a week later, New York will need a victory under its belt. The Bucs have come a long way in preseason, but there are some observers who feel their offense hasn't progressed to the point where it can handle the rugged Giants' defense. The Giants' offense is marginal, particularly at quarterback, with Jerry Golsteyn drawing the starting nod over Joe Pisarcik. Much depends on fullback Larry Csonka; who finished strong last season. The offensive line much maligned in recent years, is being rebuilt with center Jim Clack, who was ' obtained from Pittsburgh. Doug Kotar led the Giants' running attack with 148 yards in preseason. . . Al Dixon had 10 catches and rookie running back Billy Taylor added six for 130 yards in exhibitions. . . Dave Jennings looks solid with 29 punts for a 42.8 - yard average. . . Throughout the preseason, the Giants had seven interceptions including three by Ray Rhodes.”

Giants Birthdays 6-13

Richmond Flowers SS TR-WASH 1971 NYG 1971-1973 6-13-1947

Robert Harris LDT/RDE FA-MIN 1995 NYG 1995-1999 6-13-1969

Dave O’Brien T/G TR-MIN 1965 NYG 1965 6-13-1941