The New York Giants continued to progress through the spring workouts with Day 5 of organized team activities (OTA) on Thursday.
The Giants will have one more OTA session this week on Friday before a few days off. They will return to conclude OTAs next week before jumping into mandatory minicamp in the middle of June to wrap up the offseason workouts before summer break.
Here are the biggest takeaways from Day 5 of Giants OTAs:
Takeaways from Day 5 of New York Giants OTAs
Daniel Jones progressing
Head coach Brian Daboll told the media before practice that Jones is progressing well. They discussed the idea of starting Jones in 11-on-11 drills, but they decided against it right now. Regardless, the Giants' starting quarterback is ahead of schedule in his recovery from a torn ACL.
MORE: News, notes, highlights from Day 5 of Giants' OTAs
Why Darius Slayton returned
Though there is a new WR1 in town following the arrival of Malik Nabers, the Giants saw a key piece of the offense return this week to OTAs. Slayton ended his contract dispute after receiving more incentives from the team on his current deal.
Still no Darren Waller
Just a formality at this point, but Waller remains away from the team as OTAs continue. There was no update on whether he will return as he contemplates retirement. In his absence, the Giants will continue to feature Daniel Bellinger, Theo Johnson, Chris Manhertz, Lawrence Cager and Jack Stoll at tight end.
Steve Smith in the building
For the second year in a row, the former Pro Bowl wide receiver was at the Giants' facility helping out some of the younger wide receivers. Smith was seen working with Jalin Hyatt and Malik Nabers during practice Thursday. Using Smith as a sounding board for the wide receivers is a fantastic idea to help develop their games this early in their careers.
Steve Smith coaching up Malik Nabers & Jalin Hyatt
— Talkin’ Giants (@TalkinGiants) May 30, 2024
Via @SNYGiants pic.twitter.com/hU9W11RXr5
Gunner Olszewski injured
At one point during practice, Olsewzki slipped during one of the drills. He limped off the field with an injury and didn't come back out. The team did not provide an update.
Roster move
The Giants made a small roster move before practicing, announcing the signing of free-agent defensive back Elijah Riley. to make room for Riley on the 90-man roster, the Giants waived running back Gary Brightwell with an injury designation.