EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – Though some significant players missed practice today, the Giants did have some good news on the injury front: Malik Nabers returned to the field.

The splendid rookie wide receiver remains in the NFL concussion protocol and wore a non-contact red jersey. But he practiced today for the first time since he was injured against Dallas on Sept. 26. Though Nabers' participation was limited, coach Brian Daboll said he is optimistic by how Nabers, who has missed the last two games, has progressed.

"Malik has made progress," Daboll said. "Good progress where he's able to come out here today and practice. He'll have a red jersey on, but he passed some of the steps that he needed to do. He's better, which is a good thing. So, we'll see. We'll go through today. I'm optimistic, but I'm not going to push anything. That type of injury you want to be smart with. But he is doing much better, and it'll be good to have him out here at practice today."

Red jerseys are typically worn in practice only by the quarterbacks and kickers. Players who are in the concussion protocol must go through a non-contact practice as a mandated step in the process.

"Stay away from him so he can take the next step hopefully for tomorrow," Daboll said. "But I'd say he's much better."

Three Giants did not practice today: linebacker Brian Burns (groin), defensive lineman Dexter Lawrence (hip) and punter Jamie Gillan (groin). Tackle Andrew Thomas was placed on injured reserve after undergoing season-ending surgery to repair a Lisfranc injury.

Lawrence, who is tied for second in the NFL with 7.0 sacks, said he was taking a rest day, which Daboll regularly grants veterans.

"Just resting, man, just resting," Lawrence said. "I'm good. I'm where I'm at after every week."

"I'm playing," Lawrence said about the game Sunday.

Burns said his hip injury is not new.

"This is one of those things that happened earlier, early in the season," he said. "It's just something I'm dealing with. Something I got to fight through."

Asked if he'd be able to play Sunday, Burns nodded yes.

*Six players were limited, including four wide receivers: Nabers, Darius Slayton (groin), Wan'Dale Robinson (ankle), and Bryce Ford-Wheaton (shoulder). Also limited were running back Devin Singletary (groin) and linebacker/special teamer Ty Summers (hamstring).