On and on it goes with this forgettable season for Hakeem Nicks, who was listed as questionable to play in Sunday’s game against the Cowboys, but actually never came close to getting on the field.
Last Wednesday, Nicks was not on the pre-practice injury report then suddenly appeared on it after practice with an issue with his groin. It was later changed to an abdominal strain. Coach Tom Coughlin said Monday that last week Nicks thought he might have a hernia until tests showed he did not. He was listed as practicing on a limited basis Thursday and Friday and was listed as questionable, meaning he had a 50 percent chance of playing.
This is Nicks’ contract year and the season has been like water torture for him. He has 42 receptions for 620 yards but not a single touchdown. At least he played in the first 10 games, though was often not much of a factor. He said he did not practice Wednesday because his agent advised him to get to the bottom of his physical discomfort by having a checkup, which is not the usual course of action for a player.
Nicks said on Thursday there was no doubt he was going to play, but was scratched without even trying to warm up hours before the game.
Coughlin, asked if Nicks put up much of a fight to get on the field, said, “No, not really.’’
As for why Nicks didn’t play, Coughlin said, “You asked me the question late in the week and I answer, ‘What would be the issue?’ ‘Speed. He probably can’t be full speed.’ ’’
After reviewing the game tape, Coughlin said the call was correct that Victor Cruz’s forward progress was not stopped on the first-quarter fumble returned for a Cowboys touchdown.
Center Jim Cordle said an MRI revealed damage to his left patella tendon, but he has been told it might be manageable and he might be able to play through it. He will have it reevaluated on Thursday.
“It’s not that bad right now,’’ Cordle said. “It’s definitely damaged. Probably after the season it would require some attention.’’
Jason Pierre-Paul was on the field for only 27 of the Giants’ 65 defensive snaps and had one tackle and no hits on Tony Romo as he continues to deal with an injured left shoulder.
“There’s no doubt it’s a factor,’’ Coughlin said.