The New York Giants might be without three defensive players on Sunday as Olivier Vernon, Eli Apple, and Connor Barwin were unable to practice on Wednesday.
The New York Giants are in desperate need of a win on Sunday as they take on the Houston Texans (0-2) at NRG Stadium.
Getting a win on the road in the NFL is never easy and the task might be even more difficult for the Giants if they’re without three key defensive players.
Olivier Vernon (ankle), Eli Apple (groin) and Connor Barwin (knee) were all unable to practice on Wednesday which leaves their status for Sunday up in the air.
Apple spoke to the media on Wednesday about the importance of being on the field on Sunday, versus taking time to recover from the groin injury he sustained against the Cowboys.
“Just got to be smart. Got to take it day-by-day, and listen to the coaches, the trainers, listen to your body, and come back stronger.”
Apple has played well in the first two games and his presence will be needed on Sunday to go up against DeAndre Hopkins and Will Fuller V. If he’s unable to go, B.W. Webb will likely start in his place.
Vernon hasn’t been able to practice since he sprained his ankle at the end of August and the Giants pass rush has struggled without him. Through two games, they have just one sack.
Barwin and rookie Lorenzo Carter were playing in place of Vernon. Barwin has been dealing with knee issues since training camp and so far this season, he’s only registered one tackle.
The Giants will have a two-hour practice on Thursday beginning at 1:05 p.m. ET. With Friday just being a walk-through practice, if Vernon, Apple and Barwin are unable to practice on Thursday, it would seem doubtful they will play on Sunday.
