Key Facts from Giants Camp
- Date
- August 4, 2026
- Odell Beckham Jr.
- Saw more first-team reps
- JuJu Smith-Schuster
- Held out with knee swelling
- Isaiah Likely
- Scored red-zone touchdown
- Jaxson Dart
- Threw ball at Greg Newsome II, drew taunting penalty
Training Camp Context
The New York Giants continued their training camp practice on August 4, with head coach John Harbaugh addressing the media afterward. The session was described as a hot day, with the team pushing through a highly competitive period at the end.
Harbaugh expressed satisfaction with the team's progress, emphasizing a focus on technique and execution rather than statistics. He noted the team is working to 'chase perfection' on every play and make corrections as needed.
The practice included a nine-on-seven drill, which is a run and play action pass period without the secondary, and pass skeleton (seven-on-seven) work. Harbaugh explained these are standard drills for working on pass protection and perimeter routes.
Practice Highlights and Player Updates
Wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. saw a major uptick in first-team reps during the practice. Harbaugh said it 'probably worked out that way today' and declined to specify if it was rotation-based or merit-based, but added that Beckham is 'doing a good job' and 'playing well.'
Wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster was held out of practice due to 'a little knee swelling,' according to Harbaugh. The coach did not provide a timeline for his return.
Tight end Isaiah Likely made a red-zone touchdown catch during practice. Harbaugh said, 'That's what he's here for,' and expressed hope that Likely will be 'a big weapon' for the team this season.
| Player | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Odell Beckham Jr. | Active | Increased first-team reps |
| JuJu Smith-Schuster | Inactive | Knee swelling |
| Isaiah Likely | Active | Red-zone touchdown |
| Jaxson Dart | Active | Taunting penalty |
| Greg Newsome II | Active | Involved in incident |
Player Roles and Expectations
Isaiah Likely, who spent his first four years with the Baltimore Ravens, is expected to take on a larger role with the Giants. He said he aims to be 'a star caliber tight end' and that the Giants 'picked the right choice' in acquiring him.
Harbaugh praised Likely's route-running and ability to create mismatches, noting he is 'a hard guy to cover.' Likely described himself as a 'chess piece' who can line up outside, in the slot, in line, or in the backfield.
Regarding cornerback depth, Harbaugh said the top four corners are 'all playing pretty well' and that the team has 'pretty good depth' at the position. He emphasized that both player talent and scheme are important for cornerback success.
Looking Ahead
Scenario analysis: The possibilities below are not certain predictions.
Harbaugh discussed the balance of quarterback Jaxson Dart's running in practice, noting the team wants to practice extended plays and scramble drills. He said designed runs are practiced as they are installed, but not excessively.
The coach also addressed the offense's versatility under center and in shotgun, saying it gives the defense more to prepare for and makes the offense less one-dimensional. He said the approach will be evaluated game-to-game.
If the team continues to develop its depth at cornerback and tight end, it could strengthen its overall performance. However, if injuries like Smith-Schuster's knee swelling persist, the team may need to adjust its plans. The next few weeks of camp will be crucial for finalizing roles.
Source: giants.com
