Giants News: Don't expect Azeez Ojulari to play Week 2, Deonte Banks good to go

The third-year pass-rusher has been listed as doubtful for Week 2
Dallas Cowboys v New York Giants
Dallas Cowboys v New York Giants / Cooper Neill/GettyImages
facebooktwitterreddit

Last season, injuries were a nightmare for NY Giants pass-rusher Azeez Ojulari - unfortunately it's already more of the same in 2023. Ojulari popped up on the injury report earlier this week, causing plenty of concern.

Now, that concern has reached another level. The Giants released their latest injury report, with Andrew Thomas being questionable for the contest, as he'll be a game-time decision. That's promising, but what isn't is that Ojulari is listed as doubtful. It'd be a surprise to see him play vs. the Cardinals. When does it end for Big Blue?

Azeez Ojulari doubtful for Week 2 is yet another setback for the pass-rusher

Ojulari was only able to play in seven games in '22, posting five starts. Despite his limited action, he was still able to post 5.5 sacks. With an offseason of him being injury-free, everyone was hoping the same kind of playmaker from his rookie season would be showcased this fall.

The fact that it's only Week 2 and we already have to worry about his injured hamstring giving him issues the rest of the season is a major downer. Ojulari has so much potential, but he just can't seem to stay healthy. Perhaps having Sunday off will help him be ready for Week 3 vs. San Francisco, but no one knows if he'll be able to play in that huge contest either. Look for Jihad Ward to start on Sunday in his place.

Deonte Banks is ready to rock for Week 2 despite fighting a calf injury

Just like was the case with Ojulari, Big Blue supporters were quite concerned when Deonte Banks was limited in practice earlier this week with a calf injury. The No. 24 overall pick was one of the few bright spots from the Week 1 loss to the Dallas Cowboys.

In some needed, fantastic news for head man Brian Daboll, the calf injury was only minor for Banks. He's all set to play on Sunday and he'll be ready to make a splash going against a Cardinals offense that remains without star signal-caller Kyler Murray.

READ MORE: Latest Andrew Thomas update gives fans hope he'll play vs. the Cardinals