The Giants were on the field Wednesday for the first of 10 organized team activity workouts and, in what really is not much of a surprise, Eli Manning took many of the snaps with the starting offense.
These are non-contact practices and players aren’t wearing shoulder pads, but having Manning behind center — where the Giants always expect him to be — is a positive sign. Manning, who is coming off April 10 arthroscopic surgery on his left ankle, said last week he wanted to take as many reps as possible and that his ankle felt fine. His participation in the first OTA, reported by the team’s website, is evidence he is ahead of the rehab schedule the Giants’ medical staff established for him.
Running back David Wilson was on the field and worked not only in the backfield, but also as a kick returner. Wilson, coming off neck surgery, has not yet been medically cleared for contact, but the OTAs are non-contact, allowing Wilson to work.
James Brewer, coming off a dreadful season, lined up as the starting left tackle as Will Beatty continues his rehab from a broken leg. The rest of the starting line was Geoff Schwartz (left guard), J.D. Walton (center), Chris Snee (right guard) and Justin Pugh (right tackle). Rookie second-round pick Weston Richburg, a center, lined up at right guard on the second line, with Dallas Reynolds at center.
Former Giants offensive lineman David Diehl, merely four months after announcing his retirement, has been hired by FOX as an NFL analyst.
“I’m thrilled for the opportunity to still be involved in the sport that I love so much and that has provided me so much in my life,” said Diehl, who spent his entire 11-year career with the Giants and was the starting left tackle on two Super Bowl-winning teams.