Pads Come On: Physicality, Purpose, and Progress
Training camp got real on Monday.
With pads on for the first time this summer, the New York Giants turned their focus to the trenches and their revamped run game. Energy surged throughout the facility as offensive and defensive linemen relished the opportunity to engage in full-contact drills for the first time this camp. What followed was a physical, spirited practice that revealed early signs of identity on both sides of the ball.
“It’s what we want to play anyway,” cornerback Paulson Adebo said. “You don’t play football in shorts and shirts.”
Running Game in the Spotlight
The Giants’ emphasis on running the football was evident from the opening horn. Tyrone Tracy Jr. and veteran Devin Singletary continued to split first-team reps, but rookie Cam Skattebo continues to turn heads. The Arizona State product caught several passes out of the backfield and ran with physicality that impressed both teammates and coaches.
“He’s a low-level, gets-his-pads-down, runs-hard [guy],” said Head Coach Brian Daboll. “He’s got good hands, he’s got soft hands. He’s another young player that has been encouraging.”
Outside linebacker Brian Burns echoed the sentiment. “He showed he got a little dog. He runs tough, he runs behind his pads… I like that he’s got that edge to him,” Burns said.
The running back room’s versatility is already creating headaches for defensive coordinators—at least on paper. Between Tracy, Singletary, and Skattebo, all three backs are threats as pass-catchers and runners, giving the Giants true multi-down flexibility.
Offensive Line Sets the Tone
According to tackle Jermaine Eluemunor, the offensive line took pride in the first fully-padded practice. “We were able to run the ball and actually practice some real situations,” he said, referencing the final period of practice where both the first- and second-team offenses executed four-minute drills to close out the day.
“I think the O-line did a pretty good job of that today,” he added. “Obviously, it’s the first day in pads, so I’m not going to pat ourselves on the back just yet.”
Eluemunor also praised the development of guard Evan Neal, who is adjusting to a new role on the interior. “He’s really committed to being a great guard… His hands are like 10 times the size of mine. There were a couple plays today where I was like, ‘Damn, that’s crazy.’”
Front Seven Wars: Burns, KT, Abdul, and More
While the offensive line had its moments, New York’s defense wasn’t going quietly. Brian Burns, Kayvon Thibodeaux, and rookie Abdul Carter all made an impact. Carter in particular drew rave reviews for his pass-rushing technique and high motor.
“He’s about his business,” Burns said. “He has traits you can’t teach.”
Burns, a veteran leader brought in to elevate this unit, is setting the tone both vocally and physically—even if it comes at a cost. He reflected on his now-viral full-speed collision with Wan’Dale Robinson from earlier in camp. “I’m not doing that again,” he laughed. “That was scary.”
Burns emphasized the importance of trust and communication on defense, praising fellow leaders like Dexter Lawrence, Bobby Okereke, and Jevón Holland for setting a high standard in meetings and on the field.
“We look great on paper, but we haven’t done anything yet,” Burns said bluntly. “We can take this as far as we want to go.”
Paulson Adebo Making His Presence Felt
After a strong offseason, cornerback Paulson Adebo is carrying momentum into camp. With Deonte Banks and Cor’Dale Flott also vying for outside corner roles, Adebo’s consistency, intelligence, and leadership have stood out.
“Communication is everything,” Adebo said. “If one guy is on the wrong page, then you’re giving up a touchdown.”
He’s been tested early by the explosive Malik Nabers. “His ability to get in and out of his breaks, the suddenness… that makes him incredibly tough to cover,” Adebo said.
Roster Update
The Giants re-signed wide receiver and return specialist Gunner Olszewski, who has been with the team the past two seasons. He fills the roster spot vacated by WR Bryce Ford-Wheaton, who was placed on injured reserve with a torn Achilles. It’s a tough break for Ford-Wheaton, who had been impressing in his comeback bid.
“My heart aches for that man,” Daboll said. “He was having a good camp.”
Jaxson Dart Building on Momentum
Though most of the attention Monday centered around the line of scrimmage, rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart quietly continued his steady progression. One day after his most efficient practice of camp, Dart followed it up with another solid showing in limited reps.
“[He] played on time, his feet were good, played fast, knew where to go with the football,” Daboll said. “Just keep on making progress.”
Final Thoughts
Monday was a day defined by tone-setting. From the grinding physicality in the trenches to young standouts like Skattebo and Carter flashing in pads, this was a pivotal checkpoint in camp. With an increasingly competitive vibe and more padded practices to come, the Giants are entering the heart of their preseason ramp-up with focus and momentum.
“First day in pads,” Daboll said. “It’s a little bit more physical, but the goal is still the same—get good work in, improve, and come out healthy.”
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