The New York Giants may have both cornerback Prince Amukamara and defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul back on the field this week against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Amukamara had an MRI on Monday that was reportedly encouraging, and there is a possibility he returns to the field Sunday, according to ESPN's Dan Graziano. Pierre-Paul will practice Wednesday, and head coach Tom Coughlin said the team is following through with the plan to have him ready by this Sunday, according to NFL reporter Ian Rapoport.
The Giants could use the help on defense after getting torched by the Saints for 608 yards and 52 points. Saints quarterback Drew Brees threw for 505 yards and seven touchdowns, and the return of Amukamara and Pierre-Paul will clearly help their pass defense. The Giants rank dead last in the NFL in sacks, having only recorded nine sacks on the season.
Pierre-Paul hasn't played since last season after severely damaging his hand in a fireworks accident this past July.
"JPP is in outstanding physical condition so we feel good about accelerating him along," said Coughlin, via the Giants twitter account. Pierre-Paul has a good chance to play this weekend and their defense could clearly use his help getting after opposing quarterbacks.
Amukamara's partially torn pectoral is likely not fully healed, but the Giants could use him on the field Sunday. New York's former first round pick in 2011 has missed the last three games, and is a crucial piece in the Giants pass defense. Amukamara has 32 tackles and an interception this season, and could return this weekend against the Buccaneers.
Pierre-Paul looks to have a greater chance at playing this week, and the Giants could surely use the pass rusher on the field. New York is in first place in the NFC East, but need a win Sunday to continue to control their division. It will be interesting to see what the Giants decide with Amukamara and Pierre-Paul, but their returns to the field will only be good news for New York.
