Giants place K Gano on IR again; Koo fills in, performs well against Bears

The New York Giants are grappling with the ongoing injury struggles of kicker Graham Gano, who has been placed on injured reserve due to a herniated disc.

Why it matters: Gano’s absence from the lineup not only impacts special teams but also raises concerns about the overall health and depth of the Giants as they navigate the season.

Gano has faced significant injury challenges this year, having already spent time on injured reserve for a groin issue earlier in the season. His latest setback includes a herniated disc that is pressing against his spinal cord, which has sidelined him once again. This leaves the team relying on backup options to fill a critical role.

By the numbers: Over the past three years, Gano has managed to play in just 23 games, underscoring the extent of his injury woes.

• He has missed multiple games this season alone: first due to a groin injury last year, followed by a hamstring injury, and now this neck injury.
• Despite these issues, Gano boasts a career field goal percentage of 83.8% and was a Pro Bowl selection in 2017.

What’s new: Younghoe Koo stepped in as the temporary kicker during the Giants' recent game against the Chicago Bears, successfully converting both of his field goal attempts and an extra point.

• Koo made kicks from 32 and 19 yards, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.

Yes, but: The Giants also added rookie Ben Sauls to their practice squad, indicating their intention to bolster their kicking depth amid Gano's ongoing injuries.

• This move reflects a proactive approach by the Giants to ensure they have reliable options available should Gano's recovery take longer than anticipated.

Zoom In: Gano expressed his frustration regarding his injuries, stating, "It's unbelievably frustrating. I mean, obviously all I want to do is play football. I can't control the injuries that have happened."

• This sentiment resonates with players across the league who may feel similarly trapped by unforeseen physical setbacks.

What’s next: As the Giants look to stabilize their kicking situation, the focus will be on Gano’s recovery timeline and whether Koo can maintain his performance level in the interim.

• With critical games on the horizon, the team's strategy will be closely monitored as they adapt to the absence of their veteran kicker.

The bottom line: Gano’s continued injury struggles present significant hurdles for the Giants, impacting their special teams and overall roster stability. As the season progresses, their ability to navigate these challenges will be crucial to their success.