Injury situation goes from bad to worse
A case could be made for either receiver or linebacker as the Giants’ most injurydecimated position, if it wasn’t for the offensive line already securing the title.
Tae Crowder (hamstring) joined the injury report Thursday, just three days before his expected first chance as the Giants’ top inside linebacker and signal-caller in the wake of Blake Martinez’s season-ending torn ACL. Crowder, who is ahead of Reggie Ragland and Justin Hilliard on the depth chart, was limited in practice.
“We have no reservations with Tae wearing the [audio transmitter],” defensive coordinator Patrick Graham said. “He’s a good communicator.”
On the offensive side, receivers Sterling Shepard (hamstring), Darius Slayton (hamstring) and left guard Ben Bredeson (hand) were non-participants. John Ross moved well in practice as he nears his season debut coming off injured reserve. Rookie first-round pick Kadarius Toney also is expected to have a bigger role.
“Shep and Slay have made a lot of plays for us [as] guys we’ve counted on,” quarterback Daniel Jones said, “but K.T. and the rest of the group are ready to step up and make plays. We’ll play to their skill set.”
Matt Skura could be the Giants’ fourth different starting left guard in as many games if Bredeson is sidelined. Shane Lemieux and Nick Gates suffered season-ending injuries.
Skura, a career 51-game starter with the Ravens, mostly has played center but began taking reps at guard on both sides of the line after joining the Giants on Sept. 2. The Giants’ other options include converted tackle Matt Peart in his first career game at guard, Wes Martin (signed off Washington’s practice squad this week) and potential practice-squad call-up Jonotthan Harrison.
➤ Slot cornerback Darnay Holmes’ snap count went from 53 in Week 2 to one in Week 3 as his two-year run as a starter appeared to end. Rodarius Williams and Julian Love saw an increase because of better coverage skills.
“It’s always what we think is best in terms of the game plan,” Graham said.