As the New York Giants kick off their first padded practice of the season (uppers only), free agent aquisition Damon Harrison has joined the team off the PUP list, sending UDFA rookie Greg Milhouse to the second team.
After being sidelined for the team’s first three practices with swelling in his knee, the New York Giants will finally get defensive tackle Damon Harrison back on the field.
Damon “Snacks” Harrison was one of the Giants’ prized offseason acquisitions, making it no surprise he jumped right in with the first team defense upon his return. In his absence, undrafted free agent rookie Greg Milhouse had filled in for him alongside Jonathan Hankins.
With Harrison back, Milhouse will now slide down to the third defensive tackle slot on the team’s depth chart. Meanwhile, New York’s former third round pick Jay Bromley remains on the PUP (physically unable to perform) list, still giving Milhouse a chance to shine.
Bromley is reportedly undergoing surgery to shave down several painful bone spurs in his ankle. Although the procedure has a relatively quick recovery time, he won’t be expected back on the field until the Giants’ final few preseason games.
Despite Harrison’s return, Milhouse will still a great chance to fight for a roster spot.
Bromley’s missed time will give Milhouse plenty of looks with the second stringers both on the practice field and in the team’s preseason contests. Described as having a “powerful push as bull rusher and shows ability to attack blockers edges as well,” by NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein, the Giants could have a diamond in the rough with Milhouse. According to Zierlein he is a player who “has enough talent to play three downs.”
Projected as a fifth-sixth round pick, the Giants were more than pleased to scoop up Milhouse as an UDFA. The Campbell product displays many of the same traits as fellow UDFA and teammate Harrison in his play. Both high energy players, they are exceptional run defenders who excel at clogging up rushing lanes. Milhouse may even have an edge on Snacks in athleticism, displaying better skills as a pass rusher then Harrison.
The team needs one of either Milhouse, Bromley, or Montori Hughes to step up as a quality backup defensive tackle. With Harrison and Bromley out, the coaches putting Milhouse as a starter over Hughes is a good sign.
The four year NFL veteran Hughes is a solid dpeth guy, but nothing more. He has one career start and 23 tackles under his belt and is essentially a known commodity. Decent depth guy who can start in a pinch is what you’ll get from him and not a lot more. To see the coaching staff roll the dice on Milhouse is benefitial in the long run.
The Giants need a solid backup and their giving Milhouse the chance to be that guy. Hopefully for the team, he can be. Though it’s a big leap from Campell to the NFL, early signs indicate he could have what it takes.
