Hakeem Nicks didn’t practice at all this spring during the Giants organized team activity sessions. Victor Cruz didn’t do anything with the team as he stayed away while seeking a new contract. Eli Manning says his starting receivers have done fine in the early stages of training camp despite all the missed time.
“I think both guys have done well,” Manning said on Monday. “Hakeem made some great snags the first day, coming out of breaks well and good speed. Victor started off right where he left off and making catches and making good decisions. He seems quick out of his breaks and full speed, so I’ve been pleased with our receivers so far and how everybody is doing. We’ve got to keep that same pace.”
Nicks made it through the first practice on Saturday but didn’t complete Sunday’s practice because of a slightly strained groin. He worked on Monday on a limited basis and, coming off foot and knee problems last season and offseason knee surgery, Nicks clearly isn’t rushing himself.
“Hakeem is being smart,” Manning said. “He is coming off some injuries. He’s going to take it slow and do what he’s got to do to make sure when he’s out there he is full speed and is prepared for these preseason games and the start of the regular season. We have some time and it is early on and he has been limited in some practices over the spring, so we just want to make sure he goes at his pace that’s going to keep him healthy for the upcoming year.”