NFL

Giants DE Tuck probable to face Falcons

Justin Tuck’s shoulder was a enough of a problem yesterday to force him to miss practice, and the Giants could be curious and alarmed about how he will be affected tomorrow against the Falcons.

It is unknown what happened to Tuck’s shoulder or when it occurred, because he was not listed on the injury report this week and practiced in full on Wednesday and Thursday.

The defensive end is listed as probable for tomorrow’s playoff game at MetLife Stadium, and coach Tom Coughlin said his defensive captain was simply dealing with soreness.

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“He was just sore. He’s sore,” Coughlin said, downplaying the idea it could be a problem. “It’s not what you want, but we had good work out of everybody else.”

Tuck was asked several questions about his shoulder and status, but answered each with: “No comment.”

The Giants’ defensive line that features Tuck, Jason Pierre-Paul and Osi Umenyiora is certainly the team’s strongest unit on that side of the ball, but if Tuck is hampered by an injury, the line’s strength will be diminished. If Tuck has to handle fewer downs, Umenyiora may have to play more, though he just returned last week from a sprained ankle. Reserve Dave Tollefson might also receive additional snaps.

This season, Tuck has suffered neck, groin, ankle and toe problems. He missed four of the season’s first six games, but played in the final 10. He also recorded a sack in each of the Giants’ last two games, wins over the Jets and Cowboys.

“He’s a warrior. He’ll be all right,” Tollefson said. “He did a really good job the last two days of practicing and doing everything. To miss one day, it happens sometimes. I’m not too concerned about it. I don’t think anybody else is either.”