Dottino: Giants Cornerback Terrell Thomas Takes It Slow

By Paul Dottino
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ALBANY, N.Y. (WFAN) - There was heavy rain, then a drizzle and then the sun came out. The weather turned out to mirror the news, as the Giants went through their first training-camp practice on Friday.

Cornerback Terrell Thomas took himself off the field while going through positional drills. He appeared to be concerned. Remember, this is a guy who is coming back from a second career ACL surgery. After practice, coach Tom Coughlin said that Thomas' back tightened up, so it does not appear to be serious.

But shortly after Thomas left the field, he had his legs stretched out on the sideline. Then he went to the locker room, came back to the sideline to have a trainer stretch out his legs again, and then joined the rest of the corners to watch the remainder of practice.

The fact that he participated in any snaps and/or drills -- and moved well -- was a good sign for him. He said in minicamp that he planned to practice when the team arrived at camp, and he meant it. However, you can bet that the team will bring him along slowly.

SIGHTS TO SEE: Michael Coe took early reps with the starters as left cornerback (in Thomas' place). Later on, Bruce Johnson took some turns ... LB Michael Boley and CB Prince Amukamara each had interceptions ... WRs Victor Cruz and Ramses Barden each made a nice catch, with Cruz drawing a loud "Cruuuuuuuuuz" reaction from the crowd ... WR Domenik Hixon started for Hakeem Nicks (foot) ... Sean Locklear took some turns at starting LT for Will Beatty (back), who also got some reps ... Mitch Petrus took a few snaps at starting RG in place of a resting Chris Snee. ... RB Da'Rel Scott dropped an easy check-down pass over the middle.

Giants fans, how important is Terrell Thomas to this team as it looks to defend its title? Sound off with your thoughts and comments below...