If the 26-year-old Jones were to return before he is fully healthy, there would be an increased risk of re-injury, which would send him back to square one. As a result, the Giants continue to take a cautious approach to his return. Over the last two weeks of practice, Jones has taken on increased scout team representation, a sign that a shutdown is not currently being considered. But until he’s completely free, that’s all he’ll do in training.
Giants head coach Brian Daboll was asked last week whether Jones’ injury could be season-ending.
“I don’t have a crystal ball with injuries,” Daboll told reporters, “but he’s getting better and we’ll see where he’s at next week.”
Jones suffered a neck injury back in 2021 – another disc problem that led to an early end to the season. Jones has said that this latest neck injury is not that serious, and sources say it is not considered anything long-term. However, the risk of further complications isn’t worth bringing him back.
The Giants signed Jones to a four-year, $160 million contract in March that will pay him $46 million this season and $36 million in 2024, including $35.5 million fully guaranteed. An additional $23 million is guaranteed for injuries in 2025.
New York (2-5) scored a league-low total of 85 points against the city rival Jets on Sunday.