Terrell Thomas 'very optimistic' during 3rd ACL comeback

Terrell Thomas has not played in a regular-season game for the New York Giants since 2010 but the veteran cornerback is “very optimistic” about his current comeback bid.

Thomas is attempting to return from a third reconstructive surgery on the ACL in his right knee. The 28-year-old originally injured it eight years ago at USC. He suffered a second injury in a 2011 preseason game against the Chicago Bears. Then, working his way back into the fold last summer in training camp he blew out the knee again.

Paul Schwartz of the New York Post reports Thomas is still rehabilitating as the Giants work their way through OTA’s. The team knows it cannot bank on a return from the once rising star. Not after what he has been through. He’s signed for the minimum at $630,000 and is hoping to prove he can remain a productive performer.

I’ve controlled myself a little bit more,” Thomas said. “Last year, I was killing myself. It worked out, when I went back I was in great shape, when I came back I was in great shape. This year, it’s just being a little more cautious.”

It is possible the Giants explore with moving Thomas to safety but the bottom line is he is going to have to get back on the field and then stay there.

“I just want to be on the field at this point,” Thomas said. “It’s all about playing football. So whatever I can do to contribute.’’

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Brad Biggs covers the Bears for the Chicago Tribune

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