New York Giants star running back Saquon Barkley reportedly unlikely to play against the New England Patriots this Thursday night.
It doesn’t seem likely that the New York Giants will be fielding their star running back this Thursday night.
Per a report from Jordan Raanan of ESPN, Saquon Barkley is “unlikely” to play against the New England Patriots. It’s now 16 days removed from Barkley sustaining a high ankle sprain in the team’s Week 3 win in Tampa Bay. There was talk about how Barkley could suit up in Foxborough, but it may still be too early for doctors to clear him.
Saquon Barkley unlikely to play Thursday night against the Patriots, per sources. Still expected to be too early for medical clearance despite returning to practice last week. It has been 16 days since he suffered a high ankle sprain.
— Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan) October 8, 2019
The Giants are also expected to be without veteran wideout Sterling Shepard. The fourth-year pro entered the concussion protocol this week for the second time on the year. Shepard sustained the concussion in the midst of Sunday’s loss to the Minnesota Vikings.
Additionally, the Giants could also be without third-year tight end Evan Engram. The veteran is currently dealing with a sprained MCL. Per Adam Schefter of ESPN, it would be a “challenge” for him to suit up against New England.
In the case that Barkley, Engram, nor Shepard suit up for Thursday, rookie quarterback Daniel Jones will have a limited number of weapons.
Receivers Golden Tate, Cody Latimer, and rookie Darius Slayton will have to step up. This also includes tight end Rhett Ellison and running backs Elijhaa Penny and Jon Hilliman. Running back Wayne Gallman is also expected to be out with a concussion sustained on Sunday.
The Giants and Patriots will kick off on Thursday Night Football at 8:20 p.m. ET.
