Somewhat lost in the sky-is-falling cries about the Giants’ offense is some less-than-inspiring work last week on defense against the Colts. It does not help that starting cornerback Prince Amukamara won’t play in Friday night’s game with the Jets because of a strained groin, an injury not considered serious but something that could linger close to the Sept. 8 regular-season opener.
Unlike past years, the Giants appear to be well-stocked at corner, with Trumaine McBride or veteran Zack Bowman available to step in. Defensive coordinator Perry Fewell also has the option of moving nickel back Walter Thurmond III into Amukamara’s outside spot and putting McBride or Bowman in the slot.
“I think the depth we have at the cornerback position is awesome and guys are competing each and every day, fighting for those spots,’’ safety Antrel Rolle said. “May the best man win. I’m looking forward to seeing who will step up next and be that dominant guy.’’
The sight or mention of the Jets this time of year brings back indelible memories for Victor Cruz, who as an undrafted rookie back in 2010 complemented a fine training camp with a breakout performance against the Jets. Cruz caught three touchdown passes to nail down a roster spot as Rex Ryan famously wondered who the heck that kid was wearing No. 3.
“It’s never going to escape me, every year we play them, preseason or regular season,’’ Cruz said. “There is always a spot there for me of memories and the game I had against them my rookie season, and that never goes away. That never goes away. That feeling is always there and I am sure the Jets organization knows it’s there, so it is always going to be nostalgic for me to go play them again. They are the home team again this year, so it is going to be nostalgic, but that is all in the past. We definitely want to keep moving forward and going in the right direction, but it is always a fun memory for myself.’’
Veteran DT Mike Patterson missed the first three games with a bruised shoulder and is anxious to finally get on the field.
“I’m real excited just for the fact that I haven’t had a chance to be on the field yet,” said Patterson, who remains listed as a starter on the depth chart. “I’m really excited to see where I’m at and working it out from there.”
The starters will play 25-to-30 snaps, according to Tom Coughlin but LT Will Beatty and CB Trumaine McBride, both coming off injuries, will be limited to about 20 snaps as their workload slowly increases. … In addition to Amukamara, those who will not play for the Giants: WR Odell Beckham Jr. (hamstring), KR Trindon Holliday (hamstring), CB Jayron Hosley (foot), LT Charles Brown (shoulder), OL James Brewer (back), RB Peyton Hillis (ankle/foot) and TE Xavier Grimble (hamstring).