Just days after a report surfaced suggesting the New York Giants fear Jason Pierre-Paul has lost too much of his hand to play in 2015, another report has emerged detailing the extent of the injury. According to ESPN's Dan Graziano, the defensive end has lost the tip of his thumb, his entire index finger and had to undergo surgery to repair his middle finger.
Jason Pierre-Paul reportedly missing tip of thumb too, but still believes he’ll play in 2015
The Giants defensive end has damage to three fingers.
Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports
To make matters worse for Pierre-Paul, the Giants may consider rescinding his franchise tag.
The damage to Pierre-Paul’s hand came as the result of a fireworks mishap over the Fourth of July weekend this summer. Shortly after the incident, doctors amputated his index finger, placing his future with the Giants in doubt. The defensive end stayed away from the team throughout training camp and the preseason. He had a subsequent procedure done on his middle finger on Sept. 4, just days before he met with team officials for the first time this season.
The Giants reportedly found that Pierre-Paul’s hand was in such a condition that he might not suit up until after the season, though the 26-year-old believes he will play again in 2015.
According to Graziano’s sources, the damage to Pierre-Paul’s thumb is “not a significant hindrance to his recovery,” lending credence to the five-year vet’s belief that a return this season remains on the table. Still, for a player who must adjust to playing without his index finger, missing more of his hand can only complicate matters.
Pierre-Paul’s fate may ultimately be decided in five-to-six weeks when he meets again with team officials. At that point, New York’s medical staff can examine how well his hand has healed and if he can play this season. If the Giants don’t like what they see, the defensive end’s $14.81 million franchise tender may be formally rescinded.
See More:
