(Sports Network) -
REPORT DATE: July 26th
SITE: University at Albany, Albany, NY
CAMP OBJECTIVES: Though the Giants enter the preseason as world champions for
the second time in five years, the roster is far from set as they begin
defense of their title. Key contributors to last year's Super Bowl run such as
running back Brandon Jacobs, wide receiver Mario Manningham, offensive tackle
Kareem McKenzie, tight end Jake Ballard and cornerback Aaron Ross are no
longer around, and there are a few medical concerns as well with corner
Terrell Thomas, wide receiver Domenik Hixon and left tackle Will Beatty all
coming back from season-ending injuries and No. 1 receiver Hakeem Nicks
sidelined for the start of camp with a broken foot. If Beatty proves to have
his back problems behind him, that will allow Big Blue to move veteran David
Diehl into McKenzie's old post on the right side, but those plans would be
scrapped if that isn't the case. The Giants did secure potential replacements
for Jacobs and Manningham by selecting running back David Wilson and wideout
Rueben Randle in the first two rounds of this past draft, with the latter
ready to contend with Hixon for the No. 3 receiver position. The situation at
middle linebacker is a bit tenuous as well. Special-teams ace Chase Blackburn
emerged as the starter following spring practices, but he'll have competition
from former Cincinnati first-round pick Keith Rivers and inspirational second-
year man Mark Herzlich.
PRESEASON SCHEDULE (All Times Eastern):
Aug. 10 - at Jacksonville, 7:30 p.m.
Aug. 18 - at N.Y. Jets, 7 p.m.
Aug. 24 - vs. Chicago, 8 p.m.
Aug. 29 - vs. New England, 7:30 p.m.
The Sports Network