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In a worst-case scenario, the Giants will be without their top two pass rushers and top two offensive tackles Sunday against the Saints.
But that might be more pessimism than necessary, given that edge Abdul Carter (calf), right tackle Jermaine Eluemunor (calf) and left tackle Andrew Thomas (groin) all took part Friday in individual drills in front of the media. All three were listed as limited practice participants and then designated as questionable.
Carter, who has been on a two-game heater, “looked fine” to the point that head coach John Harbaugh initially expected him to be considered a full participant. Carter’s availability is especially important given that fellow edge Brian Burns already is out for the season.
Marcus Mbow is the swing tackle if Thomas or Eluemunor can’t play. Rookie J.C. Davis would see his first career action if both are out.
The Giants ruled out cornerback Colton Hood (concussion), tight end Theo Johnson (neck) and safety Tyler Nubin (neck).
It wasn’t quite the overt threat to take away carries that Bills head coach Joe Brady made to James Cook if he doesn’t stop fumbling, but Harbaugh made it clear that Cam Skattebo (four fumbles) has to improve his ball security.
There is a breaking point where the depth chart changes, right?
“Of course. Yes,” Harbaugh said. “There is a point.”
Has he reached it yet?
“We’ll see,” Harbaugh said. “We’ll find out.”
Backups Najee Harris and Tyrone Tracy Jr. have one fumble each on limited touches this season too. Inactive veteran Devin Singletary had a fumbling issue earlier in his career.
With Johnson out, Chris Manhertz could become the No. 2 tight end, but he mostly is a blocker. Thomas Fidone, who has appeared in one game so far, adds more as a receiver behind starter Isaiah Likely.
“He could help us,” Harbaugh said. “He’s had great practices, runs good routes, played well on special teams last week. Thomas is ready to play, as he showed last week.”
Hearing that WR Malik Nabers — coming off of back-to-back 100-yard games in his return from last year’s torn ACL — thinks he only is 70 or 80 percent of the way to his full capability excited Harbaugh.
“That gets me fired up,” Harbaugh said. “I can’t wait to see the 20,30 percent more. That’s going to be fun. I mean, I think he’s doing great and he had a great week of practice, so it’s good.”