There is never an “off” season in the National Football League.
Terrell Thomas’s the New York Giants defensive back has an uphill battle to make the final 53-man roster of the 2013. Making the roster would have been difficult even if he were coming into camp at nearly 100%.
The former starting corner back had at one time been a major contributor to Big Blue. Over a two-year period(2009 & 2010) of time he lead the team in tackles and interceptions; however after three knee surgeries Thomas finds himself a lonely spectator, watching training camp in a cap, t-shirt and shorts, while his teammates are nearly a week into camp preparing for the upcoming season.
This is a tough pill to swallow for the 6 year pro out of USC. Still awaiting medical clearance from Giant team doctors, Thomas has been placed on the Physically Unable to Perform list (PUP).
As he continues to rehab his right knee, concerns are legit regarding his comeback story and whether it will have a fairy tale ending with T2 making this deep Giants roster or crashing and burning in August leaving behind what could have been for such a promising talent.
The Giants have proven over time just how loyal of an organization they are. They are a team that gives players a chance to rebuild their career, such as the case for Linebackers Michael Boley, Aaron Curry, Keith Rivers, Keith Bullock and Lavar Arrington. However, if there is any team who’s medical staff has demonstrated the ability to grasp the understanding of injuries, how those injuries impact the player’s position and expected return to play, it’s the Giants.
As Terrell Thomas tries to become the first NFL Defensive Back to return to action after 3 surgeries on the same knee, no one is rooting for him than Head Coach Tom Coughlin. In the off-season, NY Giants General Manager Jerry Reese mentioned that it was possible to see Thomas make his return as the nickel or possibly at safety.
However, the safety position remains the deepest unit on the team, highlighted with major stars such as Antrel Rolle, Stevie Brown, Will Hill, Tyler Sash, Ryan Mundy and new comer Cooper Taylor the Giants 5th round draft pick out of Richmond.
Thomas has to get on the field between the first and second pre-season game to show coaches what he can bring to battle. Unfortunately, this Giants team is far too deep to make the team from the bench.
This may be the last training camp in a Giants or NFL uniform for #24 Terrell Thomas.
Marco Imperati | Featured Columnist