Giants' Andrews misses practice with sore back
Giants offensive lineman Shawn Andrews will face his brother Stacy in Sunday's game against Jacksonville. (Sept. 19, 2010) Credit: Getty Images
Shawn Andrews appeared to be a part of the solution to the Giants' injury troubles on the offensive line. Now he might be adding to the problem.
The former Eagle who has started the last two games at left tackle for the Giants missed yesterday's practice with what the team is referring to as a "sore" back. That might not be a red-flag for every player, but given that Andrews missed nearly two full years of NFL action due to back injuries and depression, it's certainly not the news the Giants want to hear.
If Andrews is unable to play, he'll likely be replaced by Will Beatty, who last week saw his first action since fracturing his foot in the opener.
Andrews was one of three starting offensive linemen sidelined. Shaun O'Hara (foot) and David Diehl (hip/hamstring) were also out. Tom Coughlin said he had no updates on either of them.
Webster pulled
Aside from the loss of Mathias Kiwanuka, the defense has been remarkably sturdy. But now, just as they are about to face Air Vick, they could have an issue in the secondary. Cornerback Corey Webster had to be pulled from practice with a toe injury.
While it could be anything from an ingrown nail to turf toe (it wasn't clarified), it bears watching how quickly the team's best cover man gets back.
Giant steps
WR Derek Hagan, waived with the final roster cuts in September, was back and expects to contribute. "Nothing's changed, everything is still the same, and I think that's one of the reasons why I'm back," Hagan said. "I know the offense, I know what's going on, and they definitely know what I can do." . . . KR Darius Reynaud (hamstring) participated fully for the first time in two weeks. FB Madison Hedgecock (hamstring) only did individual drills . . . WR Steve Smith (pectoral) said he doesn't expect to play again until possibly Dec. 5 against the Redskins.
