The New York Giants face significant uncertainty heading into Sunday’s game against the New Orleans Saints as several key players are listed as questionable due to injuries. Edge rusher Abdul Carter (calf), right tackle Jermaine Eluemunor (calf), and left tackle Andrew Thomas (groin) all participated in limited individual drills on Friday but remain questionable for the matchup.
Carter, who has been performing well over the past two games, appeared to be moving without issue, leading head coach John Harbaugh to express initial optimism about his status. His potential availability is especially crucial given that the team’s other edge rusher, Brian Burns, is out for the season. If either Eluemunor or Thomas cannot play, Marcus Mbow is expected to step in as a swing tackle, with rookie J.C. Davis possibly seeing his first career action if both starters are sidelined.
In addition to these offensive and defensive line concerns, the Giants have ruled out cornerback Colton Hood (concussion), tight end Theo Johnson (neck), and safety Tyler Nubin (neck) for the game. With Johnson out, Chris Manhertz is expected to move up to the No. 2 tight end position, though he is primarily known for his blocking capabilities. Thomas Fidone, who has appeared in one game this season, could provide more receiving support behind starter Isaiah Likely.
Likely, a recent free agent signing and former backup with the Baltimore Ravens, has already made a notable impact this season, recording 33 catches through five games. His contributions rank second among tight ends in the league this year. Harbaugh, who coached Likely in Baltimore, praised his well-rounded skill set and blocking ability, which stood out during his college career at Coastal Carolina.
Wide receiver Malik Nabers has also drawn positive attention from Harbaugh after returning from last season’s torn ACL. Nabers posted back-to-back 100-yard games recently but indicated he feels he is operating at about 70 to 80 percent of his full capacity. Harbaugh expressed enthusiasm about Nabers’ potential growth as he continues to regain full strength.
Harbaugh has been closely monitoring player performance and ball security, particularly with running back Cam Skattebo, who has fumbled four times this season. When asked about potential changes to the depth chart due to fumbling issues, Harbaugh acknowledged there is indeed a threshold where adjustments may occur but did not indicate that point has been reached.
As the Giants prepare for Sunday’s contest, key lineup decisions remain dependent on the health of their leading pass rushers and offensive tackles. The availability of Carter, Eluemunor, and Thomas will be critical to the team’s performance, while contributions from emerging players like Fidone and Davis could shape the depth chart moving forward.