Russell Wilson to start preseason opener in surprise Giants decision

BUFFALO – The Russell Wilson Era is starting earlier than expected for the Giants.

In a surprise decision, Wilson and the rest of the Giants’ healthy first-teamers will start Saturday in the preseason opener against the Bills at 1 p.m.

Head coach Brian Daboll had refused to reveal his plan before Thursday’s backups-heavy walk-through practice.

Wilson is going to play without stud left tackle Andrew Thomas to protect his blind side.

Thomas has not practiced during training camp because he is on the Physically Unable to Perform list, and fill-in starter James Hudson has been banged up at camp, too.

Most of the Giants’ starting offensive line will be available, though right guard Evan Neal is not expected to play after he was injured.

That is a setback because Neal needs preseason reps as he transitions from right tackle and tries to wrestle a starting job away from Greg Van Roten.

The choice to play Wilson is also interesting because it is unlikely that Malik Nabers will play.

Wilson and Nabers have shown exceptional chemistry for a first-year pairing during camp, but Nabers is still managing a toe injury that sidelined him for all of spring workouts.

Wilson, a 14-year veteran, has done it all in the preseason throughout his career. He has played a lot, played a little, and sat out entirely.

Here is a chance for him to work with new offensive coordinator Mike Kafka during a game situation.

Wilson expressed an interest in playing during the preseason, but Daboll said the decision would be made just on what the coaches felt was best.

It will be interesting to see whether the first quarterback off the bench is veteran Jameis Winston or rookie Jaxson Dart.

Winston is listed as No.2  on the unofficial depth chart, but Dart has taken more second-team reps during camp.

NorthJersey.com was the first to report that Wilson will start.