New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard left Thursday’s training camp practice midway through the session and was immediately sent for x-rays on an injured thumb.
Head coach Pat Shurmur offered no additional details at the conclusion of practice, but the team has since confirmed the worst — Shepard suffered a fractured thumb.
Although the Giants are calling the injury week-to-week, it’s entirely possible Shepard misses the remainder of camp and, potentially, even Week 1 against the Dallas Cowboys.
After signing a four-year contract extension following the trade of Odell Beckham Jr., Shepard was poised to become the Giants’ No. 1 receiver — a tall order, but one Shep insisted he was ready for.
“I know a little bit is going to be added on my plate, but I’ve been groomed and I’ve been prepared for this moment,” Shepard said on Wednesday. “I’m not going to put any extra pressure on myself. I’m just going to come out and be me.”
In Shepard’s absence, veteran Golden Tate will take over as WR1. It will also mean more opportunities for Corey Coleman, Bennie Fowler, Cody Latimer, Darius Slayton and others.
