Coach calls it a ‘normal week,’ says that choice will be made Friday night
New York Giants head coach Brian Daboll continued to be evasive Thursday when it comes to how much many of the team’s key starters will play on Sunday in the season final against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Daboll said the Giants would not determine playing time until after practice on Friday.
“It’s a normal week for us,” Daboll said. “Practice, meetings, everything’s normal.”
Would players have input into whether or not they play on Sunday?
“I talk to a lot of people,” Daboll said. “Sports science, trainers, strength coaches, Joe [Schoen], coaches.
“Well just make the best decision we think is right for our team.”
Defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, given his weekly veteran rest day on Wednesday, returned to practice on Thursday. Otherwise, the Giants’ Thursday injury report was nearly the same as it was on Wednesday.
Defensive lineman Leonard Williams (neck) and edge defender Azeez Ojulari (ankle) did not practice. Center Jon Feliciano (back) was limited Thursday after not practicing on Wednesday. Cornerback Adoree’ Jackson, out since Week 11 with a knee injury, was a limited participant.
It would be natural to assume that the Giants would like to get Jackson at least a handful of snaps on Sunday to prepare him for the playoffs. Daboll downplayed that idea.
“Whenever he’s ready to play he’ll be ready to play,” Daboll said.
[NOTE: There is still time to vote in this week’s ‘play or sit’ poll.]
Thursday injury report
Did not practice
OLB Azeez Ojulari (Ankle)
DL Leonard Williams (Neck)
Limited participation
C Jon Feliciano (Back)
CB Adoree’ Jackson (Knee)
Full participation
S Xavier McKinney (Fingers)
DL Dexter Lawrence (Not Injury Related/Rest)