The optimism surrounding David Wilson's recovery from neck surgery continues to mount as we gallop toward training camp.
Echoing general manager Jerry Reese's comments last month, New York Giants co-owner John Mara said at a YMCA donation ceremony on Thursday that the team plans for Wilson to be ready to play.
"We expect him to be playing ... all signs are he'll be ready to go," Mara told reporters, per Newsday's Tom Rock.
Wilson still has tests pending before he can fully take on contact, but the Giants are confident in his readiness.
New arrival Rashad Jennings is expected to start camp as the workhorse back with Peyton Hillis, Michael Cox and rookie Andre Williams as sledgehammer options.
Wilson, who seems to always find the ire of coach Tom Coughlin, could play a big role as the change-of-pace back the Giants lack -- if he can stay healthy. Doctors will re-examine his neck on Monday -- the same day the Giants report to training camp.
Some other notes from Mara:
» On new offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo:
"I like what I've seen so far, but he hasn't called a play in a game yet. It looks great on the practice field."
» On defensive additions:
The Giants have "a stronger secondary than we've ever had before" so long as they stay healthy and play to expectations. (Said every owner, general manager and coach in NFL history.)
The latest "Around The League Podcast" bangs the table for Cordarrelle Patterson and predicts which stars will soon descend.
