Full Breakdown
Giants Prepare for Week 17 Amidst Injury Concerns
12/25/2025, 1:57:23 AM
Injury Updates Ahead of Raiders Matchup
As the New York Giants gear up for their Week 17 game against the Las Vegas Raiders, several key players are dealing with injuries. Interim head coach Mike Kafka provided an update on December 24, 2025, stating that left tackle Andrew Thomas will not participate in practice due to a hamstring injury sustained in the previous week's loss to the Minnesota Vikings. Kafka noted, "Yeah, he's not going to go today. We'll just kind of see how it feels. He's got a couple days here to see how it looks."
In addition to Thomas, center John Michael Schmitz (finger) and safety Tyler Nubin (neck) were also sidelined from practice. Kafka confirmed, "We'll rest them today. They won't go today." The full injury report indicates that defensive lineman D.J. Davidson (neck/concussion) and offensive lineman Evan Neal (neck) are also not participating, while cornerbacks Deonte Banks (shoulder) and Cor'Dale Flott (knee) are limited participants.
Player-Specific Injury Details
Tyler Nubin's neck injury may have occurred during the Giants' Week 16 game, where he recorded six tackles, including a scoop-and-score. If Nubin can participate fully in practice by Friday, he may avoid an injury designation for the upcoming game against the Raiders.
Deonte Banks, who also sustained an injury during the Week 16 loss, was a limited participant in practice. Reports suggest that his shoulder injury is not serious, and he could be cleared for Sunday’s game if he completes a full practice.
Raiders' Injury Situation
On the other side, the Raiders have placed tight end Brock Bowers on injured reserve due to a PCL injury, which has hindered his season. Bowers, who set rookie records for catches and yards last year, remains the team's leading receiver despite missing three games. His absence will likely shift more targets to Michael Mayer and Ashton Jeanty as the Raiders look to finish the season strong.
Implications for the Upcoming Game
The Giants and Raiders both face significant challenges as they prepare for their matchup. With injuries affecting key players on both teams, the outcome of this game could have implications for their draft positions, particularly as the loser may be in contention for the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Official Statements & Responses
The Giants' coaching staff is closely monitoring the health of their players as they prepare for the game. Kafka's comments reflect a cautious approach to managing injuries while aiming for a competitive performance against the Raiders.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Yeah, he's not going to go today. We'll just kind of see how it feels. He's got a couple days here to see how it looks,” — Mike Kafka, Interim Head Coach, New York Giants
- “We'll rest them today. They won't go today,” — Mike Kafka, Interim Head Coach, New York Giants
As the Giants finalize their preparations, the status of their injured players will be critical in determining their chances against the Raiders this Sunday.
