The New York Giants secondary faces mounting challenges ahead of Sunday’s game against the Houston Texans, as multiple defensive backs remain sidelined with injuries. Jevon Holland and Greg Newsome II, both dealing with concussions, were unable to practice Wednesday. Rookie cornerback Colton Hood, who missed Sunday’s loss due to a concussion, returned to practice, providing some relief. However, linebacker Tremaine Edmunds was also absent from practice with a shoulder injury, further straining the Giants’ defense.
Amid these setbacks, there was encouraging news as cornerback Paulson Adebo returned to practice on Wednesday, opening the possibility for his activation from injured reserve. Adebo, in the second year of a three-year, $54 million contract, suffered a knee injury in the season opener and has missed five consecutive games since being placed on injured reserve on September 18. The veteran cornerback could potentially return to action this week in Houston, where the Giants will face a Texans offense led by quarterback C.J. Stroud, who has shown strong form, particularly during Houston’s recent victory in London against Jacksonville.
The Giants’ offensive line is also contending with injury issues. Starting tackles Andrew Thomas and Jermaine Eluemunor did not participate in Wednesday’s practice due to groin and calf injuries, respectively. Thomas, who has been managing a groin injury since Week 2, missed the final two series of the previous game against the New Orleans Saints, and his practice availability has been limited throughout the season. Marcus Mbow, who replaced Eluemunor during that game, was also held out of practice Wednesday. Should Thomas be unable to play, rookie J.C. Davis is expected to start at left tackle; Davis made his first appearance last Sunday.
In response to the offensive line concerns, the Giants signed offensive lineman Josh Sills from the Indianapolis Colts practice squad. Sills, 28, has appeared in only three games since 2023. Notably, he was acquitted on charges of rape and kidnapping in 2023 while with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Among other players returning to practice was Abdul Carter, who had been limited last week due to a calf injury. Carter expressed confidence facing Stroud and the Texans, acknowledging the challenge posed by the Texans quarterback’s accuracy and recent success. Tight end Theo Johnson, sidelined Sunday with a neck injury, also returned to practice, while punter Jordan Stout participated on a limited basis.
The Giants will have to navigate these injury issues as they prepare to face a Texans team that has rebounded from a 0-4 start to secure two consecutive wins.