Giants' Abdul Carter Sidelined by Calf Injury, Threatening Playing Streak

New York Giants linebacker Abdul Carter did not practice on Wednesday due to an unexpected calf injury, an issue that was not apparent during the team's previous game. This absence puts his streak of 22 consecutive games played to start his career in jeopardy as the Giants prepare to face the Saints on Sunday.

Carter has been a significant contributor for the Giants this season, recording eight tackles, 12 quarterback pressures, and a sack in the last two games. However, the team has heavily utilized him, with Carter playing 92.2 percent of defensive snaps through the first five games. This high workload has raised concerns about sustainability.

"He would probably say yes [that it's sustainable]," outside linebackers coach Charlie Bullen recently commented. "He's young and he doesn't get tired. As a coach, we have to keep the long-term focus in mind and take something off of him."

Other Giants players also missed practice or were limited. Tight end Theo Johnson, wide receiver Darnell Mooney, cornerback Greg Newsome II, and safety Jason Pinnock were limited participants, with Johnson, Mooney, and Newsome dealing with neck injuries, while Newsome and Pinnock have groin and concussion issues, respectively. Defensive end Jermaine Eluemunor (calf), left tackle Andrew Thomas (groin), cornerback Colton Hood (concussion), and safety Tyler Nubin (neck) were among those who did not participate in practice.

Coach John Harbaugh acknowledged the team's offensive struggles with ball security, noting that the Giants' nine fumbles, four of which have been lost, are tied for the sixth most in the league. "It's been a major point of emphasis from day one, and it's still not good enough," Harbaugh stated. "So, we have to get a lot better in that area. That's been probably the most important thing with our offense."

Harbaugh also commented on the "J.J. McCarthy Package," a scheme designed to offer a change of pace, which saw McCarthy sub in for Jameis Winston for a few snaps against the Commanders. Harbaugh expressed openness to utilizing all available players, stating, "One thing about it, to me, it's like, what's the benefit of not doing everything you can to use all the guys you have? We're always going to be searching for opportunities to use our players, give them an opportunity to help us win games. I think we'd be negligent if we didn't try to do that."

Regarding the upcoming matchup, Harbaugh noted the connection between Saints quarterback Tyler Shough and receiver Chris Olave. "Those two guys, they're a connection right now," Harbaugh said. "[Shough] has been lighting it up since he started. But he's still a young quarterback, too, so you see all those elements. Done a great job, though."

In roster moves, the Giants signed offensive lineman Josh Gesky to the practice squad and released defensive lineman C.J. Ravenell.