New York Giants wide receiver Calvin Austin III was carted off the field during a training camp practice after appearing to sustain a significant knee injury. The incident occurred during a 1-on-1 drill with cornerback Deonte Banks, causing Austin to crumple to the ground.
Sources reported that the severity of the injury was such that participants in the drill were unable to watch as trainers attended to Austin. The team reportedly halted practice, and players gathered in a circle for a prayer while Austin was taken off the field on a cart. Owner John Mara was observed approaching Austin on the cart.
Austin, 27, signed a one-year contract with the Giants in the offseason, with a value of up to $4.5 million. He was brought in to potentially fill the production void left by slot receiver Wan’Dale Robinson, who departed for the Tennessee Titans. Austin had been having a strong training camp and preseason, seemingly positioning himself for a substantial role in the Giants' offense.
Before joining the Giants, Austin spent his first three NFL seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers after being drafted in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft. During his time with the Steelers, he played in 48 games, recording 84 receptions for 1,100 yards and eight touchdowns. He also contributed as a punt returner, averaging 8.9 yards per return and scoring one touchdown in 2024. In the 2026 season, Austin appeared in 14 games, catching 31 passes for 372 yards and three touchdowns.
If Austin's injury proves to be a long-term issue, it could create an opportunity for veteran receiver Odell Beckham Jr. Beckham Jr., who re-signed with the Giants in June, has been considered on the roster bubble. His potential role could include replacing Austin's contributions in the slot and securing a more defined place within the team's offensive scheme.