EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - Tom Coughlin finally had a little bit of good news to report today regarding the injuries on the Giants' offensive line.

David Diehl, who missed the last three games with hip and hamstring injuries, will take his first steps toward returning to the lineup, maybe even for the Giants' home game Sunday vs. the Washington Redskins.

"Diehl is going to do individual (drills) and he's going to take a couple of plays to see what his status is," Coughlin said.

Shaun O'Hara, who has missed four games with a foot sprain, "will so some running," Coughlin said.

Shawn Andrews, who was hospitalized with back pain last week, is not ready to return to work.

Injured wide receivers Steve Smith (pectoral) and Hakeem Nicks (Compartment Syndrome) continue to make progress.

'Steve is working toward getting back to where he feels good about himself and the medical people are ready to put him out," Coughlin said. "But as far was whether he'll practice today, no. He'll be on the side. But he'll do more running and more extensive work. And he's put the pads on and done that. Hopefully, the progress keeps going."

Nicks, "feels better, doing better. The doctor sees him tonight."

Coughlin said Brandon Jacobs will again start at running back, but Ahmad Bradshaw will continue to get his share of carries.

Cornerback Aaron Ross will practice despite soreness in his back.