The New York Giants’ embarrassing loss to the San Francisco 49ers in week three was followed by some uncompromising injury news regarding starting strong safety Jabrill Peppers.
After falling backward on an extra point attempt, Peppers went down in severe pain, limping off the field a few minutes later. From the angle that was given, it looked like his ankle got caught underneath an opposing lineman, which could have resulted in something far worse than the actual diagnosis.
According to Ian Rappaport of NFL network, Peppers suffered a low ankle sprain, which is far better than the alternative. A high ankle sprain would’ve kept him out for a minimum of four weeks, but this injury should only last two weeks maximum before he can return. As Rapaport mentions, Julian Love filled the strong safety role last season when Peppers missed time with a hip injury.
#Giants S Jabrill Peppers, who limped off the field yesterday in obvious pain, is believed to have suffered a low-ankle sprain, source said. While it looked bad, this seems to be one that appeared worse than it is. Julian Love played when Peppers went out.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 28, 2020
However, new signing Logan Ryan could also fill that role, given his experience and size. I do believe that Love will slide into strong safety, given his experience last year, and Ryan will take over at free safety.
Nonetheless, the configurations are just semantics after a JV 49ers squad trampled over the Giants on their home turf, literally. By a score of 36-9, the Giants weren’t able to stop Nick Mullens and a team filled with reserves. That was more of a testament to their superior coaching and game plan. Creativity on offense and a more robust defense lead to a comfortable victory for the 49ers, and the Giants are now left to reevaluate everything they’ve done the past few months.
Of course, somebody needs to answer for the wrongdoings of this team in the talent department and game planning. Former head coach Pat Shurmur was the scapegoat in 2019, but general manager Dave Gettleman should be counting his final seconds with the Giants’ organization. Ownership doesn’t usually fire general managers midseason, but Gettleman is three years into his tenure, and the team has taken steps backward.