The Giants are getting healthier on defense, just in time to face the Cowboys on Sunday in another key NFC East showdown.
Devon Kennard, the Giants’ most dynamic linebacker, said he “did everything’’ during the team’s jog-through practice on Wednesday and has every reason to believe he will return this weekend from the strained hamstring that kept him out of the past two games.
“My full intentions are to play on Sunday,’’ Kennard said. “Two weeks felt like freaking two months. I can’t wait to get out there.’’
Robert Ayers, the team’s top defensive end, has not played in four games with a hamstring issue. He was listed as limited in practice and likely is to return this weekend as well.
Jason Pierre-Paul did not make it to the team facility on Wednesday for a recheck of his damaged right hand. When will he arrive?
“I wish I knew,” coach Tom Coughlin said. “As soon as I have information, I’ll let you know.”
WR Odell Beckham Jr. (hamstring) did not practice. Coughlin said Beckham and Rueben Randle (hamstring) came out of Monday night’s game “sore.’’ Randle was able to work on a limited basis. … Also limited in practice: LB Jonathan Casillas (neck) and LB Uani ’Unga (neck). … Sign of progress: WR Victor Cruz (calf) stretched with the team and at least was on the side of the field as his teammates worked. … CB Trevin Wade (concussion) ran on the side. … CB Prince Amukamara (pectoral) has been ruled out.
OL Will Beatty worked in individual drills for the first time, starting the three-week period in which the Giants can activate him off the physically unable to perform list. Beatty tore his pectoral muscle back in May. He will be brought along slowly and will need at least a few weeks to acclimate back to football.
LT Ereck Flowers, usually so quiet, was caught on camera Monday night shouting at his teammates, trying to enliven the offensive line, which struggled against the Eagles. Why did he speak up?
“Because I want to win,’’ he said. It is not something he will do too often. “Just when needed,’’ Flowers said.
The Giants filled their 53rd roster spot by signing CB Leon McFadden off the Cardinals practice squad, taking the place of S Cooper Taylor, who was waived on Tuesday. McFadden, a 2013 third-round draft pick of the Browns out of San Diego State, played in 16 games as a rookie. He has played in 23 NFL games, with two starts, for the Browns and 49ers. … TE Jerome Cunningham and OL Adam Gettis were re-signed to the practice squad and OL Xavier Proctor was released.