Giants training camp: Odell Beckham “close,” full pads, defensive chemistry, more

The New York Giants competed another training camp practice on Wednesday. Here are your takeaways.

Full pads — for real

The Giants were expected to be in full pads for Tuesday’s practice, but instead were in just “uppers.” Wednesday, though, full pads for the first time this training camp. One step closer to real football.

"It feels good to be back in the pads,” said running back Rashad Jennings. “That's the way football is played."

Odell Beckham update

Odell Beckham Jr. did not practice for a second straight day, although he did do some individual running on the sideline. He should return to practice soon.

“Odell looks close,” said coach Ben McAdoo. A Thursday return has apparently not been ruled out. (Read the full story)

Who’s in the slot?

The Giants had veteran slot corner Leon Hall in the building for a second visit on Wednesday. No word as of yet on whether or not the Giants have signed him. On the field. Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie continues to work in the slot far more than rookie Eli Apple.

“He's making progress,” McAdoo said of Rodgers-Cromartie. “He jumps in there quite a bit in the afternoon session. Looks like he is enjoying that process.”

Still, don’t forget about the guy manned the slot for the Giants last season — Trevin Wade.

“He’s pretty natural in there,” McAdoo said on Wednesday. “I think the defense is really coming together for him. He understands it and he is able to play fast.”

This is your “workhorse” back

I’m not sure I even want to know what Rashad Jennings was doing with this hat on when he stepped up to the podium to speak with reporters on Wednesday. This isn’t really a “takeaway.” It’s more like a must mention.

Training camp is chemistry class for defense

The Giants have more talent on defense than they did a year ago, but with so many new faces they are using training camp to get to know how to play together.

Soccer balls? Half lines?

McAdoo was asked about some of the new drills being displayed at camp, including players kicking around soccer balls and the use of “half lines” for running drilsl with only the linemen on the play side being utilized.

“We’ve got a little bit of everything out there. You’ve got to pay attention,” McAdoo said. The coach added players like the half line drill because they don’t need “to worry about getting rolled up from the backside.”

“You want to be able to work the point of attack. You want to be able to fit your backside pad in. Defense wants to be able to get their hands inside and shed; work their arm over technique without having to worry about their backside,” McAdoo said. “That’s where things get vulnerable. That's where the problems happen.”

Defending Janoris Jenkins

Every time a tweet mentions a pass getting completed against janoris Jenkins or a video from practice shows him getting beat there seems to be an Internet outcry against the high-priced cornerback. McAdoo has no problem with what he has seen from Jenkins thus far.

“I think he picked it up right away. I think he's playing fast and competitive and physical,” McAdoo said. “He's everything we thought and more. I think he has some leadership potential. Does a nice job of taking the young guys under his wing.” (Read the full story)

Personnel notes

Tight end Matt LaCosse, who has been having a nice camp, left the field briefly with trainders to have his knee looked at. LaCosse, who apparently objected to being removed from the field to begin with, returned and finished practice ... Placekicker Josh Brown was excused for personal reasons.