Giants already giving J.J. McCarthy an A-plus in one area

J.J.McCarthy’s crash course in the Giants playbook apparently comes complete with a report card.So how has the backup quarterback fared learning things in his second week since being acquired in a trade from the Vikings? Will he be ready to supplant Jake Haener as No.

2 behind Jameis Winston in time for Sunday’s game against the Commanders? Get texts from Paul Schwartz with all the latest Giants news and insights, exclusive to Sports+ subscribers.“I would say it’s an A-plus,” offensive coordinator Matt Nagy said before Thursday’s practice.

“You look back seven days ago … he’s much further along, which is, again, a credit to our position coaches.These guys are spending a lot of time with J.J.

and with Jake just in case.“At the same point in time, J.J.is spending a lot of time trying to learn everything.

So that part has been great.Proud of him, but this is just the beginning.”The Giants had a specialized package of plays available for McCarthy last game, but it was not used.“You work towards what you think his strengths are,” Nagy said.

“Even in a short week, we were really starting to get a good feel for that.You start with minimal plays.

And then at the same point in time, both him and Jake have to know the entire game plan at all times.So that’s the more challenging part.”WR Malik Nabers (knee) and LT Andrew Thomas (groin) were upgraded to limited participants.DT Chauncey Golston (neck) and S Jason Pinnock (concussion) remained out.TE Isaiah Likely, TE Chris Manhertz and RB Cam Skattebo (shoulder) remained limited, though Skattebo ditched Wednesday’s red noncontact jersey.RB Najee Harris returned to practice after missing Wednesday for personal reasons.Charlie Jones is the new Giants kickoff and punt returner after the season-ending foot injury to Braxton Berrios.

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