Giants Co-Owner John Mara Talks About Benching Eli Manning

UNDATED (AP) — The co-owner of the New York Giants says there was probably a better way for the team to handle the benching of two-time Super Bowl MVP Eli Manning after 13 seasons.

Speaking for the first time since coach Ben McAdoo announced Tuesday that Geno Smith would start against Oakland, John Mara said Wednesday that he made a couple of mistakes in handling the situation.

Not being at the team's headquarters Tuesday when Manning was devastated by the decision topped the list.

In other NFL news:

— Quarterback Jay Cutler is out of the concussion protocol and will start when the Miami Dolphins try to break a five-game losing streak Sunday against Denver.

— Patriots quarterback Tom Brady sat out practice Wednesday with what the team says is an Achilles tendon injury. The 40-year-old missed one practice last week prior to the Patriots' win over Miami with the same Achilles tendon injury.

— Falcons running back Devonta Freeman, the league's highest paid running back, has cleared the concussion protocol after missing two games and could return for Sunday's game against the Minnesota Vikings.

— The New York Giants have placed cornerback Janoris Jenkins on injured reserve. He will have ankle surgery.

— The Chicago Bears are bringing back linebacker Lamarr Houston, claiming him off waivers from the Houston Texans.