Giants Injury Report: Nabers Steps Foward, Defense Steps Back

The New York Giants survived September as one of the league’s healthier teams, even if kicker Graham Gano’ untimely injury in Week 2 soiled an otherwise average month.

October would prove to be far less kind.

First, receiver Malik Nabers suffered a concussion in Week 4’s final moments. Edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux joined him on the injury report soon after. After Week 6, the team’s top two defensive players and best offensive lineman sustained injuries of varying severity of their own.

The Giants are no longer fighting their own mistakes and their opponents’ talent. They’re also facing a laundry list of injuries that threaten their standing in Week 7 against the visiting Philadelphia Eagles .

The team released the following injury report on Wednesday.

DID NOT PARTICIPATE

• Edge Rusher Brian Burns (Groin)
• Punter Jamie Gillan (Left Hamstring)
• Defensive Tackle Dexter Lawrence (Hip)
• Offensive Tackle Andrew Thomas (Foot)

LIMITED

• Receiver Bryce Ford-Wheaton (Shoulder)
• Receiver Malik Nabers (Concussion Protocol, Non-Contact)
• Receiver Wan’Dale Robinson (Ankle)
• Running Back Devin Singletary (Groin)
• Receiver Darius Slayton (Groin)
• Linebacker Ty Summers (Hamstring)

Unfortunately for New York, Thomas won’t be returning this season after getting surgery for a Lisfranc injury in his foot. It’s about as detrimental of an injury as New York could have suffered, and thrusts significant responsibility onto backup tackle Joshua Ezeudu.

The Giants did get some good news, though. Receiver Malik Nabers has progressed to the non-contact portion of concussion protocol. This means he has just one step left before he can return to game action – full physical activity and clearance. Keep an eye on his participation throughout the week, but there’s reason to be optimistic about his return in Week 7.

Lawrence has already guaranteed his availability for Sunday, so New York can breathe a sigh of relief. Burns, who’s been dealing with a lingering groin issue, is also expected to go on Sunday.

Singletary also seems more likely to be back after missing his second consecutive contest, raising questions about his role with Tyrone Tracy Jr. There will be a brighter spotlight on the backfield with Saquon Barkley back in town.

Related: Andrew Thomas' Season Is Over

Gillan remains an important name to watch, as he missed Week 6 and was replaced by Matt Haack.

It’s too early to make any calls on most of the injury report, but knowing two DNPs will be active is good news that New York will be thankful for in the wake of Thomas’ absence.