New York Giants top receiver could be out with concussion for week 2

New York Giants, Sterling Shepard
Sep 8, 2019; Arlington, TX, USA; New York Giants receiver Sterling Shepard (87) runs with the ball after a reception against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

To make matters even worse after the New York Giants loss to the Dallas Cowboys 35-17, starting wide receiver Sterling Shepard could miss week two of the regular season.

The Giants will look to bounce back against the Buffalo Bills in their home opener, but Sterling could miss time with a potential concussion. Head coach Pat Shurmur said Monday that Shurmur was dealing with concussion symptoms and would undergo further testing. The Giants top pass catcher will likely enter the protocol.

“It appears like he might be in the protocol here,” Shurmur said.

Also, right guard Kevin Zeitler also was seen with an ice wrap on his right shoulder after the game. The newly acquired offensive lineman hasn’t missed a game since 2015, so he will likely be available next Sunday against the Bills.

Shepard played 68 snaps on offense against the Cowboys, acting as Eli Manning’s top target. He finished the game with 42 receiving yards on six receptions. He averaged seven yards per catch. His influence was minimal, while tight end Evan Engram hauled 116 yards and a score on 11 receptions.

If Manning’s most trustworthy target is unable to play against the Bills, the Giants will have to look to Cody Latimer, Bennie Fowler, and Russell Shepard as their primary targets. They will likely utilize star running back Saquon Barkley more efficiently in week two. He only earned 11 carries against the Cowboys which was an alarming number that affected their overall offensive production.

The Bills defense limited the New York Jets two just 16 points on Sunday, which will present a challenge for the Giants. Starting quarterback for Buffalo Josh Allan, however, did turn the ball over four times, giving the Jets plenty of opportunities to capitalize. The Giants must come out firing if they wish to secure a win and rebound from a tough outing in week one.