The New York Giants are confronting a crucial decision regarding their kicker ahead of their rematch against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday. Coach Brian Daboll announced on Wednesday that the team has activated Graham Gano’s practice window from injured reserve, allowing him to train with the team for up to 21 days without occupying a spot on the 53-man roster. The team must then decide whether to place Gano on the active roster, send him to season-ending injured reserve, or release him.
“If Graham is ready to go, Graham will be the kicker,” Daboll stated firmly. Gano, 38, has faced multiple injuries this season, including a groin issue sustained during pre-game warmups. He previously missed seven games last year due to a hamstring injury incurred on the opening kickoff against Washington.
In a shift prompted by Gano’s injury, the Giants waived Jude McAtamney after he missed two extra points in the team’s narrow 34-33 loss to the Denver Broncos last Sunday. McAtamney had converted both of his field goal attempts during his four-game stint but struggled with extra points, missing three of twelve attempts.
The Giants signed veteran kicker Younghoe Koo to the practice squad following Gano’s injury in Week 3. Despite Koo’s experience, he lost a kicking competition to McAtamney, who had been developing on the practice squad since last season. Daboll has indicated that the focus is now solely on Gano’s recovery. “We’ll go through the week here and if he looks good, hopefully he’ll be out there,” he said.
Injuries Affecting Defense and Offense
The Giants are navigating further challenges as injuries continue to impact their defensive lineup. Three starters—outside linebacker Brian Burns, safety Jevon Holland, and cornerback Paulson Adebo—did not practice on Wednesday. While Daboll did not provide specific details on the extent of their injuries, he confirmed that none would be placed on injured reserve.
Burns, who is currently tied for the NFL lead with nine sacks, expressed optimism about his availability for the Eagles game. He responded positively when asked about his condition, stating, “I’m good.” The Giants’ defense recently faced criticism following a historic collapse against the Broncos, as Denver scored an unprecedented 33 points in the fourth quarter after being shut out for the first three quarters.
Concerns were raised about the team’s fatigue and conservative play-calling, particularly as defensive coordinator Shane Bowen opted to drop eight of eleven defenders into coverage late in the game. Nickel cornerback Dru Phillips acknowledged the challenges but emphasized the need for better execution rather than attributing the collapse solely to fatigue.
Positive Developments for the Offense
On a brighter note, wide receiver Darius Slayton has returned to practice and appears poised to play against the Eagles after missing the last two games due to a hamstring injury. Slayton expressed optimism about his chances, stating, “I’m optimistic, I feel good.” He did not participate in the Giants’ previous meeting with the Eagles, a 34-17 victory in Week 6.
Despite the Giants’ success in their last encounter, the Eagles enter the rematch as 7.5-point favorites. The Giants have not secured a win in Philadelphia since 2013, adding pressure to this upcoming game. Slayton remarked, “We played a pretty good, strong game against them a few weeks ago, and obviously we’re gonna try to go out there and replicate that again.”
In a notable off-field development, American philanthropist Julia Koch and her family recently acquired a minority, non-controlling interest in the Giants. Koch, who serves on several prestigious boards, expressed her enthusiasm about joining the franchise, stating, “My family and I are honored to join the Giants organization, a storied franchise with deep roots in New York.”
As the Giants prepare for this critical game, all eyes will be on Gano’s recovery and the team’s ability to rebound from recent setbacks. The coming days will be pivotal in determining the Giants’ strategy as they aim for a much-needed victory against their division rivals.
