The New York Giants’ official website recently featured a discussion among its staff regarding standout performances and significant improvements observed during the team’s training camp. The panel included John Schmeelk, Dan Salomone, and Matt Citak, who each provided their assessments on four statements related to both offensive and defensive players.
When asked whether quarterback Russell Wilson has been the standout player on offense so far, opinions were divided. John Schmeelk highlighted wide receiver Malik Nabers as his choice, citing Nabers’ consistent ability to make deep catches and get open at all levels of the defense. “If Nabers doesn’t make a deep catch downfield or some other spectacular catch every day, I get surprised,” Schmeelk said. He also noted that Nabers is targeted often by quarterbacks.
Dan Salomone agreed that both Wilson and Nabers have made strong impressions but emphasized Wilson’s impact on team confidence: “The former gives the latter so much confidence when the ball is in the air, and vice versa.” Salomone added that players frequently mention how much experience Wilson brings to the team.
Matt Citak also supported Wilson as a standout, stating, “The veteran quarterback appears to be on a mission to prove to the entire NFL world that he still has plenty of gas left in the tank.” Citak described Wilson’s accuracy on deep passes and his athleticism during designed run plays.
On defense, outside linebacker Abdul Carter was considered for top performer. Schmeelk praised Carter’s work in pass rush drills but ultimately gave his nod to Brian Burns due to Burns’ leadership qualities and impactful play during team practice sessions. Schmeelk observed Burns taking an active role with teammates and coaches: “He often stands near the coaches during drills and then relays his thoughts to the edge group and defense.”
Salomone echoed this sentiment about Burns’ leadership: “The man does not take plays off… The best example of that was when he chased down a long catch-and-run by tight end Greg Dulcich.” Burns himself commented on setting an example for teammates: “If I’m going to run the ball, you better run to the ball… It’s holding each other accountable and I’ve got to be – me, Bobby [Okereke], Jevón [Holland], all the leaders of the defense, Dex, all the leaders of the defense got to set the standard and be held to it.”
Citak maintained Carter’s status as a standout defender due to his frequent penetration into the backfield during practices.
Regarding which offensive player has taken the biggest leap in camp, there was no consensus. Schmeelk acknowledged Evan Neal’s improvement after shifting positions but singled out Josh Ezeudu for making notable progress at both guard and tackle positions. Salomone credited Jermaine Eluemunor for finding stability at right tackle following years of playing multiple positions. Eluemunor remarked on finally having an offseason focused on one position: “It’s actually the first offseason of my career where I get to play one position.”
Citak sided with Neal’s development at guard, pointing out improved comfort levels in padded practices and noting Neal’s effectiveness creating running lanes.
For defensive improvement, cornerback Dru Phillips received recognition from both Schmeelk and Salomone for making significant strides since his rookie season. Daboll described Phillips as making a “big jump” in communication skills while linebacker Bobby Okereke predicted future accolades for him: “Dru is a freak athlete… he’s got All-Pro, Pro Bowl in his future.” Okereke also commended Tyler Nubin’s growth as a leader.
Citak favored Nubin over Phillips for most improved defensive player after observing Nubin’s increased activity during team drills alongside new addition Jevón Holland.
The discussion highlights ongoing competition within key roster spots as well as leadership roles emerging among returning veterans and young talent alike.
