The New York Giants pulled off an incredible comeback, overcoming a 21-point deficit to defeat the Arizona Cardinals 31-28 at State Farm Stadium on Sunday. While the victory was thrilling for the Giants, it was marred by concerns about star running back Saquon Barkley's ankle injury.
Barkley, who scored two touchdowns (one rushing and one receiving), is scheduled to undergo an MRI in Arizona on Monday to assess the extent of the injury and the potential time he might be sidelined, according to sources cited by ESPN.
Following the game, Barkley's ankle was visibly swollen, but initial indications suggest that it may be a standard sprain rather than a high-ankle sprain, as one source described it. Although X-rays on the ankle came back negative, coach Brian Daboll remained uncertain about the severity of Barkley's injury, and the running back declined to comment on it.
The Giants face a quick turnaround this week, staying in Arizona before heading to San Francisco for a Thursday night game against the 49ers. They then have 11 days off before hosting the Seattle Seahawks on October 2.
Barkley, 26, is playing under a revised franchise tag this season and is set to become a free agent at the end of the year. His history of ankle injuries could impact his contract prospects and the Giants' long-term plans.
In the meantime, the Giants' remarkable comeback potentially saved their season. After a 40-0 loss to the Dallas Cowboys the previous week, they faced a 20-0 deficit on Sunday. Their comeback from a 21-point deficit marked the third time in franchise history they achieved such a feat, previously doing so in the 1945 and 1947 seasons. Quarterback Daniel Jones played a pivotal role in the second half, throwing for two touchdowns and rushing for another, beginning with a 58-yard pass to rookie Jalin Hyatt on the first play of the second half. The Giants' offense significantly improved in the second half, totaling 358 yards compared to just 81 in the first.
Coach Daboll praised the team's resilience and the way they finished the game, expressing relief at securing the win after a challenging start to the season.