The New York Giants might be up a creek without a paddle in Week 2.
On Sunday, kicker Graham Gano went down with an injury during the opening kickoff of Big Blue’s game against the division-rival Washington Commanders. What is Gano’s latest injury status, and what will New York do if he can’t return in Week 2?
What Happened to Graham Gano?
Gano suffered a hamstring injury and appeared to be in severe pain after the opening kickoff on Sunday. Washington returned the kickoff for a touchdown, but the score was called back due to a penalty.
Trainers eventually assisted Gano off the field. He appeared incredibly frustrated and punched the Giants’ bench once he returned to the sideline.
New York labeled Gano as doubtful to return to Week 2.
The Giants added Gano to their injury report on Saturday, but that was because of a groin issue.
Punter Jamie Gillan will take over as New York’s kicker for the remainder of Sunday’s contest. He’s filled in as an emergency kicker before.
Gillan — nicknamed “The Scottish Hammer” — missed a 61-yard attempt for the Cleveland Browns in 2020 but converted a 40-yarder for the Giants last season.
Theoretically, New York could get more aggressive on fourth downs if it doesn’t want to rely on Gillan.
Gano, 37, is in his fifth season as the Giants’ kicker. He missed eight games with a leg injury in 2023.