The New York Giants are facing a significant setback as quarterback Daniel Jones will be sidelined for their upcoming game against the Buffalo Bills due to a neck injury. Jones sustained the injury in a recent loss to the Miami Dolphins, where he experienced a violent hit from behind resulting in his neck snapping back. This unfortunate incident forced him out of practice for the entire week leading up to the game. Coach Brian Daboll confirmed the news, stating that although there has been some improvement, Jones is not fit enough to play.
Another cause for concern within the Giants’ camp is the availability of star running back Saquon Barkley. Daboll remains unsure whether Barkley will be able to take the field against the Bills, simply stating that he is “closer” to making a return compared to previous weeks. Barkley has been dealing with a lingering high ankle sprain, causing him to miss the past three games. Despite making strides in his recovery, Barkley admits that there is still pain and limited mobility when making cuts. However, he remains optimistic about his progress and believes each passing week has shown improvement.
Initially, there was some optimism surrounding Jones’ injury, with the team hopeful that he would be able to play. Unfortunately, the results of an MRI revealed otherwise. Although Jones explained that the injury was not entirely negative and did not express long-term concerns, specifics regarding the injury were not disclosed. He did mention that it was a different neck injury from the one he suffered in 2021, where he missed the final six games of the season due to a disk issue. Nevertheless, Jones has been unable to participate in practice since the incident and is currently undergoing rehab within the team facility.
In addition to the absence of Jones, the Giants are facing multiple other injury concerns as they head into a challenging matchup against the Bills. Key players such as All-Pro left tackle Andrew Thomas, starting center John Michael Schmitz, offensive tackle Matt Peart, and outside linebacker Azeez Ojulari have all been ruled out due to various injuries. As if the situation weren’t already dire enough, tight end Darren Waller and right tackle Evan Neal are also questionable for the game.
The Giants will be forced to field a makeshift offensive line in front of Tyrod Taylor, who will be taking over as the starting quarterback against his former team, the Bills. With the absence of Thomas, Schmitz, and Peart, the team must find suitable replacements to protect Taylor. The Giants are left with the option of relying on recently signed veteran Justin Pugh for reinforcement or potentially starting an offensive lineman from the practice squad, such as Jalen Mayfield or Yodny Cajuste, at right tackle.
Unfortunately, the Giants’ injury concerns extend far beyond the offensive line. With the uncertain availability of key players like Barkley, Waller, and Neal, the team will face an uphill battle against the Bills. The Giants enter the matchup as 15-point underdogs, possibly making them the biggest underdogs in the NFL this season should the line hold.
As the game approaches, the Giants must reconcile with the unfortunate absence of Daniel Jones and navigate through a myriad of injuries plaguing their roster. The challenge against the Bills will undoubtedly test the team’s depth and resilience, as they aim to defy the odds and secure a victory in the face of adversity.
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