Three things to observe for through the Giants’ first preseason game against the Lions on Friday:
1. What type of first impression will rookie running back Eric Gray make?
Saquon Barkley is just not expected to play, there is no such thing as a sense putting an excessive amount of wear and tear on backup Matt Breida and Gary Brightwell is out with an injury.
So Gray will get the ball on offense — he’s an adept pass-catcher out of the backfield — and he also will get a shot as a kick returner.
2. Which safety vying for a starting spot alongside Xavier McKinney will take a step forward?
Jason Pinnock is running with the primary team, but second-year player Dane Belton and veteran newcomer Bobby McCain are within the hunt at strong safety.
It’ll be interesting to see how the snaps are divided up.
3. The player within the swing offensive tackle role is just not exactly within the highlight — until considered one of the starters goes out and the swing tackle is required on the sphere.
Matt Peart has been subbing with the starters at right tackle instead of Evan Neal (concussion) and Peart figures to see loads of motion within the preseason opener.
Will he delay?