New York Giants star running back Saquon Barkley will reportedly not need surgery to repair his recently-sustained high ankle sprain.
Rejoice, New York Giants fans. At least there’s some good news in this whole Saquon Barkley injury situation.
Per Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, Big Blue’s star running back will not require surgery for his high ankle sprain. Barkley sustained the injury prior to halftime of the Giants’ 32-31 win over the Tampa Bay Buccanneers this past Sunday. Barkley will reportedly miss between four and eight weeks.
#Giants star RB Saquon Barkley (high-ankle sprain) returned from his visit with noted specialist Dr. Robert Anderson in Green Bay with a recommendation of no surgery, source said. The option of tightrope surgery — a la #Bama QB Tua Tagovailoa — had been one option.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 26, 2019
Barkley’s injury will have him return anywhere from the Giants’ Week 7 game against the Arizona Cardinals to their Week 12 game against the Chicago Bears. New York’s bye week lands on Week 11.
The star running back was contained by the Tampa Bay defense prior to the injury. He had eight rushes for only 10 yards before leaving. Barkley has 237 rushing yards this season on 6.4 yards-per-carry and one touchdown. He additionally has 11 receptions on 18 targets for 74 yards.
Despite Barkley not needing surgery, it’s still a big loss for Big Blue. Backup running back Wayne Gallman will now take the reins as the No. 1 back for the time being. However, expect the Giants to implement a more air raid-type offense, even with their rookie quarterback.
Daniel Jones will head into his second career start this Sunday against the Washington Redskins. He’s coming off a memorable performance in the team’s win in Tampa. Jones completed 23 of his 36 throws for 336 yards and two touchdowns. He also carried the ball four times for 28 yards and two scores on the ground.