Giants cornerback Prince Amukamara (high ankle sprain) returned to practice on Monday, but safety Kenny Phillips was sidelined with a yet-to-be-determined injury. Seeing as cornerback Michael Coe (hamstring) injured himself in last week’s loss, having as many healthy bodies in the defensive backfield is crucial for coach Tom Coughlin’s team.

The good news is that Amukamara, who wasn’t even running last week, appeared to be moving fine on Monday. If Amukamara is healthy for Week 2, he’ll likely start opposite Corey Webster.

Defensive tackle Marvin Austin (back) and offensive tackle James Brewer (back) were also both active on Monday. Austin has repeatedly said that his back is improving, but Coughlin and the medical staff have been cautious because both Austin and the rest of the defensive tackles have been a bit injury prone of late.

Linebacker Keith Rivers (hamstring), defensive tackle Chris Canty (knee, PUP) and tight end Travis Beckum (knee, PUP) were also sitting out of practice.

Rivers previously said his injury isn’t too serious and he expects to play this Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Monday isn’t usually a practice day for the Giants, but since they haven’t been in pads since last Wednesday, there didn’t seem to be any harm in working. There is a good chance that Rivers and Phillips are simply being held back as a precaution.

In practice squad news: The Giants surprisingly cut offensive tackle Matt McCants, a sixth-round pick in this year's draft, from the practice squad along with wide receiver Brandon Collins. McCants could always return to the unit, but it’s safe to say he’s extremely raw and has a long journey back to an NFL roster. Also, offensive lineman Scott Wedige and defensive back Terrence Frederick have been added to the practice squad.

Follow the Giants and Alex Raskin @CBSGiants and @AlexRaskinNYC.