The Giants’ health situation for Sunday night’s showdown with the Packers appeared to improve greatly today with the return of Ahmad Bradshaw and Linval Joseph to practice.

Bradshaw (foot) took part for the first time all week and seems likely to start against Green Bay, and Joseph (knee) will be a welcome addition to the Giants’ defensive-line rotation.

Safety Kenny Phillips (knee) and linebacker Keith Rivers (calf/knee) also practiced, meaning the Giants’ defense could be even more fortified at an opportune time with Aaron Rodgers and the Packers’ potent passing game up next.

The injury picture wasn’t entirely bright, though, as wide receiver Domenik Hixon (ankle) and linebacker Jacquian Williams (knee) did not practice and appear unlikely to play Sunday.