The New York Giants have several player in doubt for week 1 of the 2018 regular season against the Jacksonville Jaguars. While some of the players are more likely to play, others are on the fence.
1.) OLB Olivier Vernon
Vernon was missing from practice on Monday, not attending practice in even the slightest of fashion. While Labor Day is often a time where people take off, Vernon was one of the few that didn’t show up. This likely has nothing to do with the holiday and everything to do with an ankle injury he sustained during the preseason.
A high ankle sprain has caused him to miss the last few weeks of practice and has put his availability in doubt for the season opener. Head coach Pat Shurmur commented on the injury stating that Vernon is a fast healer and is expected to be ready barring a set-back. Vernon will need to appear at practice on Wednesday if he’s to be considered active for the 1PM game on Sunday.
Expect the Giants to be extra cautious with their star pass-rusher, especially after a 2017 season where he returned too early from injury and re-aggravated an ankle sprain just to see his production dip considerably.
2.) TE Evan Engram
The Giants’ star tight end remains in the concussion protocol but has been seen practicing lightly the past few days. He’s expected to be ready for week 1. He suffered the concussion during the Giants’ third preseason game against the New York Jets. He was hit by two defenders sending him crumpling to the floor. He was helped off by trainers and was immediately thought to have a concussion.
3.) LB Connor Barwin
The Giants’ new acquisition practiced on Monday and is believed to be a full go on Sunday. He will play an integral piece this season as a rotational linebacker.