The New York Giants will have multiple names missing from their secondary when they face Dallas. However, one of those names might not be Xavier McKinney, who is expected to be available. According ESPN, McKinney is expected to return to the active roster on Sunday after being placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list as a close contact.
McKinney’s presence on the field is an important one for the Giants, thanks to his 70 tackles and 5 interceptions this year. After a rookie season that was slowed down by injury, McKinney is a contender along with Andrew Thomas for the best sophomore season out of last year’s draft class.
But as of now, McKinney’s availability for this next game isn’t guaranteed. The Giants are also missing other key talent at the position – second cornerback Adoree’ Jackson and nickel corner Aaron Robinson will miss the game, due to being placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list.
Practice squad pickup J.R. Reed, who would potentially receive playing time if McKinney is out, was placed on the COVID-19 list on Friday. The problem isn’t just one that’s afflicting the secondary, either. Mike Glennon will have less weapons to work with while filling in for Daniel Jones, as the Giants are also missing Kadarius Toney and John Ross for the same reason.
There’s been some debate around the league about whether teams like the Giants should have to play in this state at all, or if the games should be rescheduled. Even though the game is going ahead and the Giants are obviously at a disadvantage with their current reduced depth, fans can at least take comfort in the fact that the team is already out of the playoff race and doesn’t have anything to lose regardless of the result.