Thomas returned from Lisfranc surgery in a staged comeback, logging 26 snaps as the Giants eased him back at left tackle. The plan targets gradual ramp, with Marcus Mbow spelling him on the final drives. New York leaned on Cam Skattebo, Tyrone Tracy, and Abdul Carter to spark production while Thomas builds conditioning for a fuller workload in weeks ahead.

The Giants shore up inside linebacker depth by signing Neville Hewitt to the practice squad as injuries mount. McFadden is IR with a foot issue, Muasau concussed, Flannigan-Fowles nursing a calf, and Bozeman/Board stepping in behind Okereke. Hewitt, a 11th-year veteran with Dolphins, Jets and Texans, adds seasoned depth and special-teams know-how to a thinning room. A Dalen Cambre visit hints at further evaluation, with signing uncertain.

Fantasy-minded readers should note Hewitt’s arrival could cap value for reserve LBs until McFadden and Muasau heal. If Cambre lands on the practice squad, depth across defense and ST could shift again. Dallas looms soon, testing the Giants’ depth and special-teams efficiency as rosters stabilize.

Giants bolster the defense by elevating Elijah Garcia and Swayze Bozeman from the practice squad to help the front seven and special teams as injuries tighten the depth chart. With Rakeem Nunez-Roches doubtful and Micah McFadden on IR, New York pivots to veteran-ready depth behind the line and at inside linebacker while cap space remains tight.

Coming off a 21-6 loss to Washington, the Giants travel to Arlington for a Sunday matchup with Dallas at 1:05 p.m., where the new depth will be tested and future roster moves could hinge on any cap relief. The move signals a practical, depth-first approach as they chase a stronger division start.

Micah McFadden to IR opens a midseason LB vacancy for the Giants. Bobby Okereke and Darius Muasau are set to carry heavier load in Dallas Week 2, testing the spine of New York’s defense.

Xavier Gipson joins Big Blue via a claim and instantly adds a versatile playmaking threat and return option, potentially easing pressure on the passing game as Cam Skattebo looks to amplify his power running profile with increased reps.