Here is a training camp update and some preliminary views after the 2nd preseason game this past Friday night vs the Bears at MetLife Stadium.

QB Eli Manning played one series and looked sharp once again as he led the team on a scoring drive. Eli worked with noted baseball instructor Tom House over the offseason to improve his mechanics and the results have been solid. He is throwing the ball with more zip and confidence belying his age. Young QB Daniel Jones once again looked impressive as he made a couple of long completions and threw a touchdown pass. He needs to work on ball security as he fumbled a center exchange and also gave up the ball on a strip sack. Both of these turnovers cost the Giants points. He played the rest of the first half. QB Alex Tanney and QB Kyle Lauletta are fighting it out for the 3rd quarterback spot. My money is on the more experienced Tanney.

RB Saquon Barkley was rested once again. I like this move as he cannot afford to get hurt in a preseason game. #2 RB Wayne Gallman sat out as well with an injury. RB Rod Smith showed some power and explosion but lost a fumble. RB Paul Perkins ran with authority and made his presence felt. Rookie RB Jonathan Hilliman also ran strongly. These three guys are fighting for 2 spots as I think the G-Men will carry 4 backs and a fullback.

WR Sterling Shepard sat out again with a fractured thumb but will be ready to play Week 1 according to HC Pat Shurmur. WR Golden Tate played sparingly and will miss the first 4 regular season games due to a banned substance suspension imposed by the league. WR Cody Latimer continues to make the most of his time as he looks to be locking down the #3 spot. There are a bunch of other guys vying for the remaining spots but the one guy who stands out most to me is WR TJ Jones who also returns punts.

I believe this is TE Evan Engram’s breakout year. He is a matchup nightmare as he is too fast for linebackers and too big for defensive backs. His only downside is his injury history. Shurmur has sat him out this preseason so far in what is proving to be a wise move.

The defense under DC James Bettcher will be much improved versus year ago in my opinion. The defensive line is young and exciting led by first round pick DL Dexter Lawrence who is a mountain of a man. The secondary is young and athletic. Depth is also excellent. The linebacking corps is the weakest link so it will be interesting who steps up besides LB Alec Ogletree. I am really excited to see S Jabrill Peppers in his return home. He is an athlete who will make plays and make fans forget S Landon Collins.

PK Aldrick Rosas fan is a Pro Bowler and a fine kicker with a big leg.

That’s it for now. More to come later this month including a fantasy draft perspective.

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