Giants' Andrew Thomas listed as doubtful for Sunday, Malik Nabers has tight back but will be 'fine' to play

Hours after he returned to team drills on a limited basis, the Giants listed star offensive tackle Andrew Thomas as “doubtful” for Sunday’s opener against the Commanders.

Thomas said after Friday’s practice that he “thought it was a good day.” But apparently it is not likely to be good enough for him to play yet, opening the door for James Hudson to start at left tackle.

Thomas  has been out since suffering a foot injury last October that required surgery. His presence is considered a key to the fortunes of the line.

When asked after practice if he thought he could play on Sunday, he said, “We’ll see.” He said the team is being cautious with him to avoid risking a re-injury.

“Thought it was pretty good,” Thomas said of his practice experience. “Obviously, some technique things I have to work on to get back into the flow of things, but I thought it was a good day.”

Thomas said he would prefer not to be limited by a “pitch count” and instead be a full participant.

“I think you need the continuity,” he said. “It’s tough to be on the sideline and come in. I think a rotation is harder than the same five guys playing.”

Thomas said he thinks he can get back into the rhythm of game action quickly, but he did not discount the cost of having missed so much time.

“Missing training camp is not ideal,” he said.

Coach Brian Daboll said the team decided to “back down” receiver Malik Nabers  in practice on Friday but insisted that he will be available on Sunday.

“His back is a little tight,” Daboll said. “He’ll be fine for the game.”

Nabers had no injury designation for Sunday, meaning he is expected to play.

By Neil Best

neil.best@newsday.com@sportswatch

Neil Best first worked at Newsday in 1982, returned in 1985 after a detour to Alaska and has been here since, specializing in high schools, college basketball, the NFL and most recently sports media and business.