Giants' Victor Cruz: Expected to play a drive or two

Cruz (groin) is expected to play one or two drives in Thursday's preseason finale against the Patriots, ESPN.com reports.

Analysis:

Cruz logged 29 snaps Saturday against the Jets, making one catch for four yards in his first game action since October 2014. He also got open on a deep route, but the pass was incomplete because of an Eli Manning under-throw. Sterling Shepard, who is expected to serve as the No. 2 wide receiver, will also get a few snaps in Thursday's preseason finale. Health permitting, Cruz figures to serve as the No. 3 wideout, given New York's lack of depth at the position. Returning from an extended layoff, the extent of his offensive involvement remains to be seen, even if there's little question he'll get snaps.