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J.T. Thomas III, the last of the New York Giants on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, is finally off the list and back to practice. Thomas, out since early in OTAs with a hamstring injury, was back on the field Tuesday.
Thomas admitted Tuesday he didn’t think he would be out as long as he was, but that the hamstring has “been nagging, lingering a little bit.”
Thomas played in 12 games last season, starting 11. He was slowed and eventually sidelined by an ankle injury, ceding snaps to Jonathan Casillas. He returns to a deep, versatile veteran linebacker group where his role, and maybe even his roster spot, are uncertain.
“I've just been focusing on how I can help this team be better. This is a good ball club, and we have the potential to be great,” Thomas said. “I want to see where I can help us the most. I'm anxious to get involved in the competition.
“I think one of my strongest attributes is just being able to be versatile. So whether it's on defense or special teams, whatever role that I'm put into, I believe that I can thrive and be a leader. But, of course, I think that if I can help us get off the field and play less downs and help us be a better defense, that'll be great.”
Thomas said he expects to play Saturday against the New York Jets, but that the decision will be up to coach Ben McAdoo and the medical staff.
Other injury updates
Wide receiver Victor Cruz (groin) was impressive in his return to full practice ... Dwayne Harris (knee) practiced) ... Darian Thompson (shoulder) has been ruled out for this week ... Mykkele Thompson (concussion) and Will Johnson (burner) did not practice. McAdoo said Johnson is “week-to-week.”