For someone like offensive lineman Nick Gates, you can understand why despite losing to the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday, the NY GIants hoss was over the moon to get back on the field. Few people thought this would ever be the case.
Gates suffered one of the most gruesome injuries you’ll see last season, and he feared that he might end up losing his leg. Despite that, Gates worked around the clock in his rehab and he proved so many people wrong when he was able to suit up in Week 8.
Getting himself back in uniform and making plays for the Giants at Lumen Field is something he’ll always cherish. After the game, Gates talked about what the game in Seattle meant to him. It’s impossible to not want to root for this guy.
"The National Anthem is when I kinda teared up... I was standing next to my trainer who has been there since it happened and was with me the whole way"
— Giants Videos (@SNYGiants) October 31, 2022
-Nick Gates on the butterflies he got prior to his first game back from his gruesome leg injury last season pic.twitter.com/EnPx9hhI0k
NY Giants Nick Gates couldn’t be happier to be playing against with his teammates
"“It felt good,” Gates said on getting back on the field and taking some hits. “Everything felt strong and solid and I felt ready. It was a special moment definitely. It was just a little bit surreal.”"
Daniel Jones and Saquon Barkley also had positive things to say about Gates, with the star running back saying the OL is no doubt the Comeback Player of the Year to him. It’s hard to argue with Barkley, as it had been more than 400 days since Gates suffered his horrifying injury, which required seven surgeries.
Gates’ official return came after Adoree’ Jackson recorded his incredible forced fumble going up against Tyler Lockett. When Barkley recorded his short touchdown run soon after, Gates was ready to help No. 26 find the end zone, as he recorded a nice block on Seahawks’ linebacker Bruce Irvin.
Just like that, people were reminded of the kind of impact Gates can make and you know it had to feel awesome for the youngster to help his team out. More of the same will be coming from Gates following the bye week. It’s going to be special to see him back at MetLife Stadium next weekend facing the Houston Texans. Fans will be ready to shower him with a lot of love.
5 NY Giants positives to focus on during the bye week
The NY Giants suffered a rough loss to the Seattle Seahawks in Week 8, but that doesn't take away from the incredible start for this team.