The Giants’ defensive line is so beat up, the team may have to turn to a couple of rookies on Sunday against the Eagles in a crucial divisional matchup at MetLife Stadium.
Defensive ends Linval Joseph (ankle/knee) and Jason Pierre-Paul (knee), as well as defensive tackles Cullen Jenkins (knee/Achilles) and Shaun Rogers (back) all were listed on the injury report, and none practiced on Wednesday.
The sudden rash of injuries has opened the door for those rookies — defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins and defensive end Damontre Moore.
Hankins, a second-round pick from Ohio State, has not been active for a game this season, but that seems likely to change.
“I liked Hankins’ work a week ago,” coach Tom Coughlin said before practice. “I thought he was a really difficult guy for us to block from an offensive standpoint [in practice]. I really felt like John was ready to contribute and I feel the same way right now. So I’m looking forward to watching him play.”
Hankins said despite his seemingly imminent NFL debut, things haven’t changed much.
“It’s pretty much the same,” he said. “Going out there, practicing, trying to get the plays down, preparing as if I’m going to play. Hopefully I do get the opportunity to go out there and play this week.”
He also expressed no fear about the task of slowing the Eagles’ high-octane offense.
“It’s definitely a big challenge, but I’m up to it,” he said.
Moore, a third-round pick from Texas A&M, also earned Coughlin’s praise.
“He’ll get an opportunity to contribute,” the coach said. “He’s done a nice job on special teams. He has good energy, and hopefully we can build on that.”
While Hankins was more reserved after practice, Moore was outwardly eager to get after Eagles quarterback Michael Vick.
“I like to stay hungry,” he said. “A hungry dog hunts the best. I just try to stay level-headed and keep doing what I’m doing.”