New York Giants: What Is Saquon Barkley’s Injury Status?

Apr 28, 2018; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Giants first round draft pick Saquon Barkley during a press conference at Quest Diagnostics Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Catalina Fragoso-USA TODAY Sports

A major injury to Saquon Barkley is the worst nightmare of any New York Giants fan, after an offseason that was filled with anticipation to see the team’s new running back in action. Barkley did go down in practice on Monday and caused a brief scare because of it, but fortunately, the injury is not major.

Barkley still may have to sit out against Detroit, though, in the second game of the preseason. His status is still “day-to-day” according to head coach Pat Shurmur, who spoke after the Giants’ joint practice with their next opponent.

“Player safety is right on the frontburner for all of us all the time. If he’s able to go, he’ll play. If he’s not, then he won’t be out there,” Shurmur said. The injury was also described as a tweaked hamstring, which gives more details than just the speculations from when the injury first happened.

When asked about the importance of rookie running backs being able to play in the preseason, Shurmur gave a similar response. “I think it’s important that guys can play, and certainly if they’re healthy, they will play. If they can’t get out there, we’ll get them out there as soon as we can.”

Barkley was only given light playing time in the preseason opener, against the Browns. He had four rushes in that game, but on his first rush as a Giant, he picked up a 39-yard gain and reminded everyone of why he was drafted number two overall. He ended the game with 43 yards, leaving fans wanting to see him in action again in-game number two.

However, it looks like that will have to wait, to avoid picking up further injury because of a preseason game that ultimately doesn’t mean anything.