Giants secondary getting healthier at right time

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – The Giants are getting closer to making their secondary whole again, but it remains uncertain when the big moment will occur.

Cornerback Adoree’ Jackson and safety Xavier McKinney, the team’s two best defensive backs, continue to progress in their rehabilitation from injuries that have sidelined them for five and seven games, respectively.

The Giants host the Indianapolis Colts in a win and they’re in the playoffs game. McKinney, who has been on the non-football injury list and hasn’t played since Oct. 30 in Seattle, returned to practice today.

In their absence, the pass defense has not been as proficient as it was early in the season. The Giants allowed an average of 208.4 passing yards through the first eight games. Since McKinney was sidelined, they’ve given up an average of 234.3 yards in the last seven contests.

“We’re taking it day by day still,” said Jackson, who was officially limited in practice. “Just going out there, doing all the precautions, doing it right by the book and by the plan. Not trying to rush it. Every day, every week it’s getting better.”

Coach Brian Daboll said “there’s a chance” Jackson could face the Colts.

Jackson injured his knee returning a punt against the Detroit Lions on Nov. 13.

“I think that the thing is just getting those live reps and not rushing into something,” he said. “But at the same time, doing the right increments to get yourself ready and prepared. Whenever I get out there – I’m sprinkled in now – be able to sustain it. I can do it once, twice. But can you do it out there (for) 70 plays in that aspect? Just make sure it’s strong, healthy, stable to be able to keep doing it play after play.”

Defensive coordinator Wink Martindale was asked what kind of difference Jackson can make if he does return this week.

“I don’t know if he necessarily changes the defense,” Martindale said, “but just the player himself and the person himself, I would love if that happens. But I don’t know.”

Before he was hurt, Jackson, the team’s left cornerback, routinely covered the opposition’s best wide receiver. He started each of the first 10 games and, despite his lengthy absence, is still fifth on the team with 51 tackles (30 solo) and third with seven passes defensed. In his absence, Fabian Moreau has been the starter.

How will Jackson gauge if he’s ready to return?

“Basically, it’s how I feel,” he said. “But at the same time, they always say they don’t want to put a player in a position to further hurt…