The New York Giants are heading into Sunday’s matchup against the New Orleans Saints with more questions than answers. Amid a litany of injuries to key players, head coach Brian Daboll announced that quarterback Drew Lock will make his second consecutive start after a whirlwind stretch that has seen the team searching for stability.
With injuries piling up, the Giants are fielding a patchwork roster. Standouts such as tackle Evan Neal (hip), cornerback Deonte Banks (rib), and inside linebacker Bobby Okereke (back) were among those who missed Wednesday’s practice. Even defensive cornerstone Dexter Lawrence is sidelined with swelling, leaving the team to rely heavily on a young, inexperienced group of players.
“We have a number of injuries on the defensive line right now,” Daboll admitted during his press conference. “You’re never going to replace Dexter, but we have a lot of young players who are going to have to step up.”
All Eyes on Drew Lock
Drew Lock, who stepped in for an injured Tommy DeVito last week, finds himself in the spotlight. Though his first start wasn’t without flaws—two turnovers highlighted areas for improvement—Lock showed flashes of mobility and playmaking ability under duress.
“Drew did some good stuff in Dallas,” Daboll said. “He also did some things he can improve on. We want to give him a full week of preparation to let him go out there and play this week.”
Lock, for his part, is embracing the opportunity and the challenges that come with it. “Getting back out there, letting the guys hear my cadence, my voice in the huddle, and getting timing down with the receivers—it helps tremendously,” Lock explained. “I’m confident that having a full week of practice will lead to some better results.”
Lock’s energy and leadership could be pivotal as the Giants navigate unfamiliar territory. “I’m a loose guy, but I can turn it on and be fiery when I need to,” Lock said. “I think the guys feel that. It’s about being intentional and not showing any signs of defeat.”
Patchwork Lineup Faces Tough Test
The offensive line, decimated by injuries to Neal and Jermaine Eluemunor (quad), will rely on Joshua Ezeudu and Christopher Hubbard, with Tyre Phillips still catching up after a long layoff. Meanwhile, rookie Elijah Chatman, an undrafted free agent, will see an increased role on the defensive line.
“We’ve used Elijah more in passing situations,” Daboll said. “He’s got quickness and power, but he’s undersized. Still, we kept him for a reason.”
The injury bug has also struck tight end Theo Johnson, who underwent foot surgery and will miss significant time. In response, the Giants signed Greg Dulcich, a move Daboll hopes will shore up the position in the season’s final stretch.
Leadership Void
With Okereke and Lawrence both potentially unavailable, the Giants find themselves down several captains. Daboll highlighted the role of veterans like guard Greg Van Roten to fill the leadership void.
“Bobby’s been a good leader for us,” Daboll said. “If he’s not ready, the young guys will have to step up.”
What’s at Stake?
For Lock, Sunday’s game isn’t just about keeping the Giants competitive—it’s an audition to solidify his role in the league.
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