New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul had his right index finger amputated after a fireworks accident on the Fourth of July, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Jason Pierre-Paul has finger amputated after fireworks accident, per report
Scary new details have emerged from the Giants defensive end’s Fourth of July accident.
Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Ricky O'Donnell has covered basketball at all levels for more than a decade at SB Nation. He’s currently the Associate Director of Programming.
Pierre-Paul was previously reported to have burns on his palms and three fingers, and nerve damage to one finger. Initial reports said that injury was so severe Pierre-Paul could lose his hand, but that was quickly contradicted by ESPN.
Pierre-Paul also has right thumb fractures and has undergone multiple surgeries, per Ed Werder of ESPN. Pierre-Paul is expected to remain hospitalized for two to three more days, per Werder, with the injuries expected to heal in six weeks.
The decision to amputate the finger belonged to Pierre-Paul, according to NFL.com reporter Ian Rapoport. The amputation could reportedly accelerate his recovery and allow him to be ready to play within two months. The Giants were reportedly unaware Pierre-Paul would lose a finger from the accident.
Pierre-Paul’s contract status adds another level of intrigue to an already sad story. After leading the Giants with 12.5 sacks last season, New York placed the franchise tag on the 26-year-old. However, Pierre-Paul never signed the tender in hopes of securing a long-term deal. The Giants could theoretically pull the offer, leaving the defensive end without a contract for next season.
Pierre-Paul has been a force in the NFL since becoming a first round pick in 2010 out of South Florida. He has 42 sacks and eight forced fumbles in his career, and was expected to be a cornerstone of the Giants defense for years to come.
See More:
