The New York Giants lost more than their game on Monday Night Football. They also lost clubhouse leader and wide receiver Sterling Shepard.
Late in the Giants’ 23-16 loss to the Dallas Cowboys, Shepard suffered a non-contact injury. He would be carted off the field, receiving wishes of good luck from teammates and rivals alike. It was later revealed he had torn the ACL in his left knee, ending his season and, potentially, career.
Shepard is no stranger to injuries. He’s dealt with an unfortunate share of lower-body injuries throughout his career, most recently a torn Achilles in the same leg. In the final season before a void year in his contract, Shepard will be hard-pressed to find work.
For Daniel Jones and the Giants, this is another punch in a boxing match of bad news. The offensive line has played poorly and now the wide receivers are weaker than ever. Young gadget receivers Kadarius Toney and Wan’Dale Robinson, the team’s most recent second-round selection, missed Monday’s action. Kenny Golladay and his albatross of a contract were left to find action, but apparently not the football. Shepard’s presence will be missed dearly, regardless of his production.
Richie James and David Sills V have been the most productive non-Shepard receivers through three weeks.
Shepard’s loss is another excuse in the chamber for Jones defenders blissfully ignorant enough to cite Josh Allen’s development. It’s true that Jones has never had too much talent around him, but his skill and that of those around him are not as intertwined as some would hope. There isn’t much use in supporting this offense. Continue fading New York’s passing offense.
You can also fade the idea that turf fields are superior to grass. Multiple athletes and coaches spoke out about MetLife Stadium’s turf, including former Giant Odell Beckham Jr.
The NFL has yet to dutifully accept a widely-acknowledged issue plaguing their playing fields, and it may have cost a fan-favorite years off of his career. Players and fans both have the right to be ticked off at an organization unwilling to listen to its constituents.
Shepard won’t be the last victim of the turf monster. I’m not sure the NFL cares.