Ankle keeps OV sidelined
The first day of complete focus and attention on the Jaguars and the season opener arrived Wednesday and still no sign of Olivier Vernon at practice. That does not bode well for the likelihood of the Giants’ best pass rusher overcoming a high ankle sprain in time to get on the field Sunday.
“He’s making great progress,’’ coach Pat Shurmur said. “From what I’ve seen, he seems to be a fast healer, but he’s working his way back. He’s doing a good job of trying to get back.’’
There is no realistic replacement for what Vernon brings to the field. Rookie Lorenzo Carter is behind Vernon on the depth chart and figured to play a part in sub packages in passing situations. Now he might be elevated into a more prominent role. Veteran Connor Barwin is also an option to move into the starting lineup. Vernon left practice Aug. 27 with the injury and high ankle sprains can take upwards of a month to heal.
“Certainly when we don’t have OV in there, we’ve got to compensate and maybe two or three guys have to do what he does,’’ Shurmur said.
➤ TE Evan Engram is out of the concussion protocol and practiced fully. “Definitely just in a daze,’’ Engram said of his first concussion since high school. “The trainers did a really good job taking care of me, assessing me, getting me taken care of. Appreciate them. Definitely a blessing I’m healthy and back out there. Ready to go for Sunday.’’ ... WR Odell
Beckham Jr. and RB Saquon Barkley are not on the injury report. The only Giants listed this week are Vernon and LB Tae Davis (hamstring).
➤ Shurmur said after he was hired by the Giants he spoke with Tom Coughlin about the franchise. Coughlin after 12 years as the head coach of the Giants is now the Jaguars executive vice president of football operations.
“I have certainly heard a lot about Tom and his years here,’’ Shurmur said. “He helped the organization win two Super Bowls. Prior to coming here, I have a professional friendship with Tom and we’ve been able to communicate. One of the guys I talked to when I was talking to former players and coaches was Tom in the offseason, and I’ve communicated with him a few times in the offseason.’’