Giants TE Johnson ruled out against Cowboys due to noncontagious illness

The New York Giants will be without starting tight end Theo Johnson in their season finale against the Dallas Cowboys due to a noncontagious illness.

Why it matters: Johnson's absence is significant for the Giants as they head into a critical matchup that could impact their playoff positioning.

• He has been a key contributor this season, ranking second on the team with 45 receptions for 548 yards and leading the squad with five receiving touchdowns.
• His role in the Giants' offensive scheme, which often utilizes tight ends as safety valves in passing situations, highlights the potential disruption his absence may cause.

What’s new: Despite being sidelined, Johnson attended a Knicks game at Madison Square Garden, raising eyebrows among fans and analysts.

• He was spotted courtside and later took to social media to assert, "I am not sick," further confounding the narrative around his health status.
• The Giants clarified that Johnson is dealing with a noncontagious infection, not the flu or COVID-19, indicating an effort to mitigate concerns about the team's overall health.

Yes, but: While Johnson insists he is not unwell, interim coach Mike Kafka reiterated the seriousness of his condition.

• Kafka mentioned that Johnson is "working through" the illness, emphasizing that the tight end is focused on recovery even as he engages in activities outside the facility.
• Other team members, including Abdul Carter, Dexter Lawrence II, and Jalin Hyatt, have also missed practice due to illnesses, adding to the Giants’ injury woes.

What to watch: The impact of Johnson’s absence on the Giants' offensive strategy will be crucial as they face the Cowboys.

• Tight ends are integral in both blocking schemes and as pass-catchers, particularly in the Giants' West Coast offense, which relies heavily on short, precise routes.
• The effectiveness of backup options will determine how well the team can adapt to Johnson's absence.

The bottom line: Johnson's inability to play against the Cowboys marks a significant blow to the Giants’ offensive capabilities.

• With the playoffs looming, the Giants must find ways to adjust their game plan and ensure other players step up to fill the void left by their leading tight end.
• As they look to secure a victory in the season finale, every position will be crucial in maintaining momentum heading into the postseason.