Miami Gardens, Fla. – The New York Giants and Miami Dolphins held a joint preseason practice on Thursday that turned into a showcase for the Giants’ pass rush and a series of heated exchanges on the field.
Giants edge rusher Abdul Carter opened the confrontations when a tangled one‑on‑one drill with Dolphins offensive tackle Patrick Paul ended with Carter throwing a punch. The incident set the tone for the rest of the session, which saw multiple altercations as both squads pushed the limits of a “violent game” environment.
Physicality in the trenches
During 11‑on‑11 drills, Dolphins right tackle Austin Jackson swung at Giants pass rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux. Thibodeaux responded with a shove that sent Jackson to the ground. Later, a larger scuffle erupted between New York’s offense and Miami’s defense, requiring nearly a minute for coaches and staff to separate the groups. Giants backup quarterback Jameis Winston repeatedly entered the pile, attempting to calm the situation.
Most of the intensity stayed in the trenches, where the Giants demonstrated dominance. Veteran defensive end Brian Burns led the charge, recording at least six would‑be sacks during team periods. He powered through Dolphins lineman Caedan Wallace for a sack and later tackled Jackson before spinning to strip running back De’von Achane of the ball.
“Dominant,” Burns said. “We don’t wait to get punched in the mouth.”
Giants defensive tackle Chauncey Golston had a standout day, logging three would‑be sacks. Two came after he tracked Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis on play‑action fakes, and the third followed a beat on guard Jonah Savaiinaea.
Offensive highlights
Rookie receiver Malachi Fields continued to build chemistry with quarterback Jaxson Dart, hauling in a deep pass down the left sideline and later another catch that moved New York into field‑goal range during the final hurry‑up period.
For the Dolphins, second‑round pick Jacob Rodriguez broke up an intermediate pass intended for Giants receiver Calvin Austin III and recorded a would‑be sack earlier in practice. He noted the value of facing “serious competition” and the different look the Giants present compared to Miami’s daily offense.
Injuries and absences
Pro Bowl receiver Malik Nabers sat out the practice as he continues recovery from a torn ACL suffered last season. Although he has returned to full‑speed work in a non‑contact jersey, the Giants kept him out of the joint session.
Giants first‑round pick Francis Mauigoa left practice after experiencing a stinger, which coaches said did not appear serious. Dolphins receiver A.J. Henning went down while covering a punt, and linebacker Tyrel Dodson briefly left the field before returning without a helmet.
Looking ahead
The two teams will meet again Saturday at Hard Rock Stadium for a preseason matchup, giving fans another chance to see how the Giants’ defensive front matches up against the Dolphins’ offense.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
