Malik Nabers, Isaiah Likely, and Cam Skattebo are all set to participate in Sunday’s game, although only one of the Giants’ significant offensive players seems to find any humor in the idea that his availability was ever uncertain.
Nabers (knee) missed practice on Wednesday due to feeling a bit more sore than usual. However, head coach John Harbaugh confidently stated after Friday’s practice, “he’ll be ready to play.”
As for Skattebo (shoulder), he explained that the red non-contact jersey he donned on Wednesday was mainly “for safety” and about “doing what I’m told,” which seems a bit ironic considering his running style tends to involve more aggression.
“Nothing to be concerned about,” Skattebo noted. “My shoulder’s fine. I just dealt with a bit of muscle tightness in my back, but I’ve worked through it and feel great now.”
During Friday’s practice, Likely (knee/groin), Nabers, Skattebo, left tackle Andrew Thomas (groin), and tight end Chris Manhertz (shoulder) all fully participated for the first time that week.
Unfortunately, safety Jason Pinnock (concussion) and defensive lineman Chauncey Golston (neck) have been ruled out for the upcoming game. Pinnock and safety Tyler Nubin have been sharing duties next to Jevon Holland in recent matches. If Nubin has to exit the game, Ar’Darius Washington would be the next man up.
Harbaugh was also tight-lipped regarding whether J.J. McCarthy or Jake Haener would serve as the backup quarterback. “I think [J.J.] has shown a lot of development over the last two weeks,” he mentioned. “He’s really improved from last week to this week.”
Interestingly, Commanders defensive coordinator Daronte Jones had interviewed for the same role with the Giants before it was filled by Dennard Wilson. When asked about his thoughts on Jones’ defensive unit, Harbaugh responded cautiously. “I don’t want to say too much; it could give something away. We’ve looked at a lot of film of their defense.”
In his post-practice press conference, Harbaugh expressed his condolences for Hall of Famer Mike Ditka, who passed away earlier that day. “I got to know Coach Ditka a bit since my brother [Jim] played for him after being drafted. Coach was a wonderful guy. I’ve met him a few times in Chicago with Jim. He always stood firm in his principles about football, right?”
Additionally, defensive lineman Jihad Ward might make his first appearance in his second stint with the Giants this Sunday, especially after Golston’s injury. “Haddy can do a lot,” remarked outside linebackers coach Charlie Bullen. “He’s been versatile, working a little of everywhere, similar to Chauncey’s role rushing inside.”
