Giants Face Injury Crisis Ahead of Raiders Showdown
The New York Giants are grappling with a significant injury crisis as they prepare for their Sunday matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders. In a move that was anticipated, the team announced several roster adjustments to cope with the mounting injuries.
Injuries Impact Key Players
Left tackle Andrew Thomas (hamstring), safety Tyler Nubin (neck), defensive tackle D.J. Davidson (neck/concussion), and center John Michael Schmitz (finger) have all been placed on injured reserve. This wave of injuries has left the Giants scrambling to fill crucial positions on the roster.
Roster Changes to Bolster the Team
To address these vacancies, the Giants have signed center Bryan Hudson, kicker Ben Sauls, defensive tackle Elijah Chatman, and safety Raheem Layne to the 53-man roster. Additionally, the team elevated running back and return specialist Dante Miller, along with tight end Zach Davidson, from their practice squad.
This will be Miller’s first elevation of the season. He had a standout preseason, leading the Giants in both rushing (80 yards on 26 carries) and receiving (135 yards on 14 receptions). As a kickoff returner, Miller displayed his skills with two returns for a total of 52 yards.
Tight End Depth Tested
With Theo Johnson sidelined due to illness, the Giants are particularly in need of depth at tight end. Johnson was added to the injury report on Friday and could not practice, ultimately ruling him out for Sunday’s game. The Giants have relied heavily on 12- and 13-personnel formations in recent weeks, making Johnson’s absence felt.
Hudson will serve as a backup center behind Austin Schlottmann, who is expected to step in as the starting center for Schmitz, following his finger injury last week. Layne adds to the safety depth as the team navigates injuries, while Chatman, who had been out of standard elevations, is now active with Davidson on injured reserve and Rakeem Nunez-Roches listed as questionable for the upcoming game.
Rookie Takes the Helm
With Thomas now on injured reserve, rookie Marcus Mbow is set to take over the starting left tackle role for the remainder of the season. A fifth-round pick this year, Mbow has already had one start—filling in at right tackle for Jermaine Eluemunor in Week 9. Throughout the season, he has faced pressure, allowing 15 quarterback pressures across 127 pass-blocking snaps, including two sacks.
Giants offensive lineman Joshua Ezeudu, who was also listed as questionable, did not get activated off IR. His 21-day window is nearing its end, adding to the urgency of the team’s situation.
As the Giants gear up for their clash with the Raiders, the focus will be on how they can adapt and overcome these challenges in a crucial moment of the season.
