Giants’ RB Saquon Barkley Avoids Surgery, Won’t Be Placed on IR

Giants' RB Saquon Barkley in 2018
Giants' RB Saquon Barkley in 2018. Photo by Shane Roper/CSM/REX/Shutterstock (9884731bw)

Although it seemed like New York Giants’ star running back Saquon Barkley is headed to the injured reserve list following a high ankle sprain, that won’t be the case.

ESPN reports that Barkley, who suffered injury in Week 3 win over Tampa Bay Buccaneers, recently had a second opinion on his ankle and won’t have the surgery per doctor’s instructions. It is estimated that the healing process will take four to eight weeks, with the longer timetable being the most likely option.

Despite this, Giants’ head coach Pat Shurmur told the reporters on Thursday that Barkley won’t be placed on IR.

“At this point, no … I want to be clear, [the plan] doesn’t involve putting Saquon on IR,” – said Shurmur.

If Giants would put Barkley on injured reserve, he would be immediately ruled out for eight weeks. By leaving him on the roster, however, the team can play him earlier if the rehab process ends up going better than expected.

“Rehab him and get him ready to go. See how that plays out,” – Shurmur added when asked about the team’s plans for Barkley.

After winning NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2019, Saquon Barkley looked like he was poised for another big season. In the first two games of 2019, Barkley rushed for 127 yards and one touchdown while also adding seven receptions for 48 yards.

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