The Giants’ depth chart may list running backs, David Wilson and Andre Brown as co-starters, but you couldn’t tell that from Monday’s practice.
Right from the get-go, it was clear to all in attendance that Wilson has emerged as the favorite to win the starting job Week 1.
The former Virginia Tech running back saw 17 reps with Eli Manning and the first team offense, while Brown only had 12, and Wilson even held a 3-1 edge in red zone drills.
Wilson had several nice runs, perhaps none prettier than on the first play of 11-on-11’s when he made several cutbacks and broke loose for a big gain. He had several other nice runs and even had five catches, though most of those came while working with the second team.
Andre Brown, on the other hand, was thoroughly unimpressive, never busting loose for more than 5-8 yards on any one carry. Where Brown still clearly holds an edge over Wilson is in the pass protection game. While Wilson is somewhat improved, he still has a long way to go when it comes to blocking.
Special Team Wilson:
In punt return drills, Wilson split reps with Ruben Randle, Victor Cruz and Jayron Hosley. Wilson muffed his first returns, but was solid after that. Hosley muffed two punts in the first drill and did not participate in the second.
Other Notes:
- Da’rel Scott saw reps with David Carr and the second team and looked good both rushing and receiving. He has this year’s Derrick Ward written all over him.
- Antrel Rolle suffered an ankle injury while covering Bear Pascoe in 1-on-1’s. Terrell Thomas filled in at nickel back on the first team after his injury.
- Seventh round pick Michael Cox had some nice runs and looks like he could be a useful piece on the team. He also had a one-handed catch on a Ryan Nassib pass early in practice.
- Speaking of Nassib, he throws a pretty spiral. Unfortunately, he can’t locate the ball; he was consistently over-throwing his receivers and nearly hit some fans at one point.
- Dan Connor saw reps at Middle Linebacker with the first team defense, and Mark Herzlich practiced with the second team.
- Randle looked fantastic, running precise routes and showing sure hands. Look for him to step it up this year.
- The talk of practice was tight end Adrien Robinson who made not one, not two, but three excellent catches on tough passes. He and Myers could form a nice pass-catching duo if he can keep it up.
Joe Vasile | Featured Columnist
Joe Vasile is a play-by-play announcer and radio host. Follow him on Twitter at @JoeVasilePBP and visit his website.