Giants Offensive Coordinator Praises J.J. McCarthy's Rapid Progress
McCarthy has earned an 'A-plus' for his assimilation into the Giants' offensive system in his second week with the team.
J.J. McCarthy is quickly progressing in his understanding of the New York Giants' playbook, according to offensive coordinator Matt Nagy. McCarthy, acquired via trade from the Vikings, has demonstrated significant improvement in just his second week with the team, earning an "A-plus" in one key area, Nagy said Thursday.
"You look back seven days ago... he’s much further along, which is, again, a credit to our position coaches," Nagy stated. "These guys are spending a lot of time with J.J. and with Jake just in case. At the same point in time, J.J. is spending a lot of time trying to learn everything. So that part has been great. Proud of him, but this is just the beginning."
The Giants had prepared a specialized set of plays for McCarthy for their most recent game, but they were ultimately not utilized. Nagy explained that the team works to identify and incorporate a player's strengths, even with a short learning curve.
"Even in a short week, we were really starting to get a good feel for that. You start with minimal plays. And then at the same point in time, both him and Jake have to know the entire game plan at all times. So that’s the more challenging part," Nagy said.
In other team news, wide receiver Malik Nabers (knee) and left tackle Andrew Thomas (groin) were upgraded to limited participants in practice. Defensive tackle Chauncey Golston (neck) and safety Jason Pinnock (concussion) remained out. Tight ends Isaiah Likely and Chris Manhertz, along with running back Cam Skattebo (shoulder), continued to be limited, though Skattebo was seen without a red noncontact jersey. Running back Najee Harris returned to practice after being absent for personal reasons on Wednesday.
Charlie Jones has been named the Giants' new kickoff and punt returner following the season-ending foot injury to Braxton Berrios. "He’s a confident guy," special teams coordinator Chris Horton said. "His ability to just catch the ball, one of the things we talk about the most is really just being able to field the ball and make great decisions. And then speed. This guy is fast."
The Giants increased their blitzing frequency in Week 4 compared to Week 3. Defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson noted the comfort level of his defensive backs in covering receivers and the success they had in pressuring the quarterback, which contributed to the decision to continue calling more blitzes.