Remember, kids: don’t play with fireworks. Maybe someone should have told New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul.
Pierre-Paul, the 26-year-old former first-round pick, reportedly injured his hand while lighting fireworks at his Florida home on Saturday night. He was examined by doctors after being hospitalized, but the injuries are not believed to be career-threatening.
ESPN reported that Pierre-Paul was left with severe burns on his palm and tips of three fingers, and one is being tested for nerve damage. He didn’t lose any fingers, and doctors believe there will be no permanent damage or disfigurement of his hands, sources said.
The NFL confirmed the incident on Sunday evening, noting that it could “potentially impact Pierre-Paul’s future with the Giants”, but ESPN’s Dan Graziano and Adam Schefter later said “the prognosis is not terrible”.
The pass-rusher enjoyed one of his best seasons in pro football in 2014. The Giants used the franchise tag on him, but he is yet to sign the $14.8m tender and is consequently not under contract.
The Giants would be OK with letting Pierre-Paul play out the 2015 season on the $14.8m franchise number and be eligible for free agency again next year. Per NFL rules, the sides have until 15 July to negotiate a long-term deal. After that time, should he sign the tender offer, Pierre-Paul would be locked into a one-year contract for 2015.
Pierre-Paul started all 16 games, had 12.5 sacks and forced three fumbles last season.
