Two Giants Defenders Listed As Doubtful For Week 1

The New York Giants are likely in for a rough year, as not many are sold on Daniel Jones as their starting Quarterback, but in Week 1, it's the defensive unit that could struggle most of all, as two key pieces are in major doubt for the season opener in Tennessee against the Titans. Both rookie Kayvon Thibodeaux and Azeez Ojulari are listed as doubtful for the Giants, and if neither of them can play, it will make a tough game even tougher for a Giants team that seem to lack direction ahead of the 2022 season. 

#Giants LB Kayvon Thibodeaux (knee) and DE Azeez Ojulari (calf) are listed as doubtful for Sunday vs. the #Titans.

— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) September 9, 2022

The Giants other rookie Evan Neal is expected to take his place in the lineup, but given the hype surrounding Thibodeaux's physical tools and motor thus far in the off-season, it would be tough to see him miss potentially the first game of his career. Many have the former Oregon standout pegged as a Defensive Rookie of the Year candidate, but after a knee injury limited him in practice this week, it's unlikely he can suit up for Week 1 of his rookie campaign.

Ojulari was drafted just a year ago by the Giants, and in his rookie campaign he logged 8 sacks, and if the Giants have any chance of stopping Derrick Henry and the Titans, both of these guys need to be there. Unfortunately, what could be a rough year may get off to a rough start, as both missed practice on Friday and are highly unlikely to suit up in Tennessee for Week 1.

Photo Credit: Danielle Parhizkaran/NorthJersey.com / USA TODAY NETWORK