FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — After the final whistle ended practice on Wednesday, Giants head coach Joe Judge took his entire team on a jog across the field, through a gate and onto a lower field. That is where “the hill” is situated. Judge had his team go through conditioning sprints up and down the hill, which is a New England football tradition with Bill Belichick running the show.
“That was different,” tight end Evan Engram said. “I had a hill in Pee Wee days that we used to run after practice. That was going down memory lane a little bit. But it was good work.”
It was hard work, in 91 degree heat.
“It’s a different way to condition,” Daniel Jones said. “It was good. Yeah, a lot of fun.”
That last part was said with a smile, tinged with sarcasm.
Judge wants to put in a hill at the Giants’ training facility and already has approval from ownership to do so.
Cornerback Adoree’ Jackson was carted off the field at the conclusion of the joint practice. Jackson got knocked around in a few drills, one time coming off the field during a team period for a few plays after he slipped in coverage before returning. When he went out, he was replaced by rookie Rodarius Williams.
Jackson is dealing with some sort of an ankle issue, with 18 days to go before the regular-season opener against the Broncos. The ankle issue is not considered to be anything serious, though.
TE Kyle Rudolph had foot surgery after he signed with the Giants in mid-March and on Wednesday came off the physically unable to perform list. He participated in a few individual drills. It will be difficult for him to be ready in time for the Sept. 12 regular season opener.
“My goal is to get better each and every day, and make sure that I’m in shape to go when this team needs me,’’ Rudolph said.
Judge opened his remarks expressing sympathy for former Giants head coach Tom Coughlin, who revealed on Tuesday his wife, Judy, is in deteriorating health.
“Look, what coach Coughlin has done for the organization, for his players, obviously speaks volumes,” Judge said. “He’s even taken it further with those dearest to him and his wife, so anything we can do to support the family, as he’s supported the organization, we always will. Coach Coughlin has been great for me, personally, so anything he ever needs from me, I’ll be here for him.’’
There was one minor skirmish and it happened early, as the Patriots offensive line and Giants’ defensive line got into a pile on the grass during 1 on 1 drills.
“I think we were just talking,’’ Patriots center David Andrews deadpanned. Both sides were sent off on a penalty lap.
OT Nate Solder returned after missing time with a shoulder issue. … Shane Lemieux (knee) was held out and Kenny Wiggins moved in with the first unit at left guard. …. QB Clayton Thorson was waived with an injury settlement.
Ryan Santoso made two field goals, including a 50-yarder, near the end of practice. The Giants are trying to trade Santoso, as they are locked in with veteran Graham Gano as their kicker. The Patriots, who could be in the market for a new kicker, got a first-hand look at Santoso. … Jon Bon Jovi, notable Patriots fan, was a visitor at practice.
