It’s crazy to think that the NY Giants have been able to post their 8-5-1 record despite having to overcome countless injuries throughout the year. Obviously, two of the biggest setbacks for defensive coordinator Wink Martindale has been the loss of both cornerback Adoree’ Jackson (knee) and safety Xavier McKinney (hand).
These two are needed back as soon as possible, especially with the Giants hoping to clinch a playoff berth in the near future. Unfortunately for Martindale and head coach Brian Daboll, both McKinney and Jackson aren’t expected to play against the Vikings on Christmas Eve.
S Xavier McKinney (hand) will not practice this week. CB Adoree Jackson (knee) “we’ll see,” per Brian Daboll.
— Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan) December 20, 2022
I wouldn’t expect either back vs. Minnesota.
NY Giants will likely be without Adoree’ Jackson and Xavier McKinney on Saturday
It felt like a long shot that either Jackson or McKinney would be able to rock vs. the Vikings, but plenty of people were holding out some hope. Minnesota’s offense is quite electric, with Kirk Cousins being in the middle of a monster year. His favorite target is of course Justin Jefferson, one of the most dynamic wideouts in the game.
The Giants secondary is going to have its hands full trying to slow down Jefferson, plus you also can’t forget about tight end T.J. Hockenson, who has made quite the splash for the team ever since he made his way over from Detroit.
Fortunately for the Giants, the big boys up front are healthy, which has made a massive difference for Martindale. Azeez Ojulari and Kayvon Thibodeaux are proving to be an electric duo on the outside, while you can’t ignore the fantastic play of defensive linemen Dexter Lawrence and Leonard Williams too.
Those four guys in particular will need to apply some heavy pressure this weekend against the Vikings to try and help out the corners and safeties. Looking ahead to Week 17, let’s keep our fingers crossed that we get some good news on Jackson and McKinney. Their returns feel like they’re inching closer and closer.
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