Two New York Giants’ staffers were involved in the NFL COVID-19 test debacle, but Monday, it was back to the grind for the Big Blue.
Tight end Evan Engram is entering his fourth year in the league, but has yet to play a full season due to injuries. He spent most of this offseason rehabbing from foot surgery he had in December, but is now healthy and working with a new coaching staff, and expectations are high.
“I'm blessed to be healthy right now and to be back on the field with my guys,” says Engram. “Like I said, each day is an opportunity to empty the tank. I'm not going to take that for granted.”
Before getting hurt, Engram had 44 receptions for 467 yards and three touchdowns, including Daniel Jones' first NFL touchdown pass. This year, he hopes to build on that.
“I'm basically going to come in and do what I'm asked every day and that's being a complete football player, that's being physical in the run game, it's being dynamic and flexible in the pass game,” says Engram.
Engram has caught the attention of his new head coach, Joe Judge, who says the tight end is a pleasure to work with.
“Evan's a guy who comes out every day and he really empties his tank,” says Judge. “He focuses on what he has to do that day and what the focus of practice is. He does everything he can within his role to get better.”
Engram will be with the team through 2021, as they picked up his fifth year option in his rookie contract. With other tight ends around the league earning big deals this year, such as Travis Kelce and George Kittle, Engram says it's motivation to keep working hard.
“Come in and continue to get better with my talents and continue to push my team,” says Engram. “I'm not going to worry about the numbers and the contracts. My focus right now is becoming a better leader and a better teammate and better football player.”
As for injury updates, wide receiver Darius Slayton did not practice. Judge says he's working with trainers and will have more at a later time.