New York Giants linebacker Micah McFadden is nearing a full return to the field, expressing excitement to play in the team's preseason opener against the Vikings. McFadden suffered a season-ending Lisfranc foot injury in the first quarter of Week 1 last season, making his upcoming participation a significant milestone.
"I was thinking about it recently, it’s almost a year since that happened," McFadden said. "I’m excited, feeling ready to go play. Foot feels good moving around out there. Just getting a hold of the defense and learning all the nuance to it. Trying to learn all the positions and just understand it holistically so I can play fast."
McFadden, a two-year starter at inside linebacker, played only 12 snaps in the contract year that preceded his injury. He re-signed a one-year, $3.75 million deal, but his starting position has been impacted by the Giants drafting first-round pick Arnell Reese and acquiring free agent Tremaine Edmunds.
"At this point, it’s just control the controllables and be ready when the opportunity is called," McFadden stated.
His transition back to the defense is aided by the system implemented by new defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson, which shares similarities in terminology and responsibilities with the previous scheme under Wink Martindale. Linebackers coach Frank Bush noted McFadden's professionalism and readiness.
"Micah is a pro’s pro," Bush said. "When he’s out there, there are certain things we do that he’s an example for the rest of the guys in the room because he does it right and I can use that film as teaching film. To his credit, he’s embraced his role, he’s making plays and he’s putting pressure on us to put him out there. It looks like he’s fully back."
Several other players are also expected to return from injuries if starters play, including OLB Kayvon Thibodeaux, S Tyler Nubin, LT Andrew Thomas, RB Cam Skattebo, CB Nic Jones, OG Evan Neal, OT Josh Ezedu, and TE Thomas Fidone. However, WR Malik Nabers (knee) and C John Michael Schmitz (concussion) are unlikely to play. The offensive line may see third-stringer Bryan Hudson start at center due to Lucas Patrick's (knee) limited practice participation.