It was just a glimpse, but Odell Beckham Jr. finally gave the Giants reason to be excited.
Sidelined with a hamstring injury since the first day of training camp, the first-round pick appeared on the field for individual drills during Monday’s practice, catching passes on undefended routes.
The rookie receiver caught multiple balls from Eli Manning, breaking hard out of runs and stopping short with no issue, and gave fans a thrill after he chased down an overthrown ball and caught it with one hand. Despite the impressive play, it is still unclear when Beckham will be ready to go against the defense.
“He probably wasn’t full speed, but he got out and did some things,” coach Tom Coughlin said. “Maybe they can extend it a little bit [Tuesday], I hope.”
Coughlin was stunned guard Eric Herman put himself in a position to get suspended for four games after violating the league’s policy on performance-enhancing substances. He became the third Giants player suspended in recent months.
“This is one of those … you scratch your head over this one,” Coughlin said. “I take it personally that they’re on the team, but not able to work and be able to play in the games. Sure I do. Are you kidding me? I think it’s foolish in terms of their careers to jeopardize things that way.”
Victor Cruz is looking forward to seeing former teammate Hakeem Nicks this weekend in Indianapolis and expects to see a different player than last season, when the latter had zero touchdowns. While Nicks was often injured, Cruz believes criticism of his work ethic also affected his performance.
“Anytime people say things like that and try to discuss your character, I think it takes a toll on anyone,” Cruz said. “I think it did for him and I think it’s something that he wants to prove wrong and show that he’s a team guy and show he gives his all on every play and show that he gives his all for his teammates. I think a fresh start for him in Indianapolis is going to be just that.”
After going 7-for-7 in Saturday’s game, Curtis Painter led the second-team offense in Monday’s practice. Coughlin, however, squashed any idea that Painter had moved ahead of Ryan Nassib in the battle for the backup quarterback spot.
“[Painter] certainly did earn [it, but] I’ve never put them in any kind of order for you and I won’t do it now, either,” Coughlin said.
Manning may still be adjusting to the team’s new offense, but he’s clearly comfortable embracing the role of his rapper alter ego. Following up on the success of last year’s “Football on Your Phone” DirecTV ad, Manning joined big brother Peyton again with another comedic effort, titled “Fantasy Football Fantasy,” which includes Eli singing solo while floating in space. The video also includes cameos from their father, Archie, Jets running back Chris Johnson and Joe Namath.
Cruz instantly proclaimed it better than last year’s hit, citing a performance better than either quarterback.
“Chris Snee’s face in the background was probably the highlight of the entire video,” said Cruz, noting the former Giants right guard who stands stone-faced behind a female dancer.