[mm-video type=playlist id=01eqbx61yex5whq8aq player_id=none image=https://giantswire.usatoday.com/wp-content/plugins/mm-video/images/playlist-icon.png]
One of the contributing factors to the the New York Giants’ latest losing season is an old culprit — injuries. For years, the Giants were at the top the league in players on injured reserved and starters games lost to injury.
This year, they’re back on top again. The Giants led the league with players on injured reserve with 23. They are also among the worst in starts missed due to injury with 68.
“The string of injuries, especially on offense to players at the skill positions, has been silly,” writes ESPN Giants beat reporter Jordan Raanan. “The Giants’ top six playmakers have each missed at least two games. Add in two starting offensive linemen being lost for the season within the first two weeks, and that is how you end up with one of the league’s worst offenses.
“And now the Giants have to deal with uncertainty with their quarterback, Daniel Jones, dealing with a neck injury. It has made it a tough season for the Fighting Joe Judges.”
Last offseason, the Giants went out and built up their offense through the draft and free agency but have not been able to realize the benefits of those moves due to injuries.
Free agent wide receiver Kenny Golladay has missed three games due to various injuries and first-round draft Kadarius Toney has only been healthy enough to suit up for nine games.
Star running back Saquon Barkley, coming off a lost season with a torn ACL, missed four games with an ankle sprain. Veteran Sterling Shepard has missed seven games with hamstring and quad issues.
The offensive line has been besieged by injuries again with center Nick Gates going out for the season in Week 2 with a fractured leg and guard Shane Lemieux playing just one game before succumbing to a knee injury.
[listicle id=679860]