New York Giants rookie free safety Darian Thompson has been ruled out for this week’s game.
New York Giants starting safety Darian Thompson has been ruled out against the Washington Redskins. Thompson played earlier in this week’s practice session with a sprained foot.
After Wednesday’s practice on September 21st, the Giants placed Thompson placed Thompson on the inactive reserve due to a sore foot. Per Art Stapleton of USA Today, Thompson rolled up his ankle during the last offensive series of the Saints game. Although his previous injury did not force him to miss any games, Thompson is now in a walking boot and is listed as day to day with a sprain in his left foot.
To replace Thompson, the Giants have third-year man Nat Berhe to hold down the free safety spot.
But Thompson’s vocal presence and physical play on the field will be difficult to duplicate. In last week’s game against the New Orleans Saints, he had four tackles against a top ranked-offense that scored 52 points last year.
Both defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo and head coach Ben McAdoo have raved about his presence on the field and his ability to communicate with teammates.
Mcadoo had only positive comments for Thompson based on his film study sessions.
"“D.T. is a guy who looks like he is comfortable in his skin,” McAdoo said. “He can communicate well and we know he has good ball skills. That showed up in his stat line and on his film study and he is making the most of his opportunities.”"
His play on the field has also allowed strong safety Landon Collins to play to his strengths.
Nat Behre and Leon Hall are qualified to replace Thompson if need be
In addition to Berhe, the Giants might also play veteran Leon Hall at free safety against the Redskins. The Giants also lost safety Mykkele Thompson to a season ending injury against the Saints.
Thompson has certainly been promising in his first professional season. He is a complement to Behre in the Giants’ secondary and the Giants will miss his presence. The Giants will release the starting safety shortly before kickoff.