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11/22/2024 05:11:57 am

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NFL News & Rumors: Is Jason Pierre-Paul's Injury A Boon For Giants' Rookie Owamagbe Odighizuwa?

Owamagbe Odighizuwa

(Photo : Getty Images) New York Giants' rookie defensive end Owamagbe Odighizuwa during the NFL combine.

New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul's off the field injury is deemed to be something that could benefit the team's rookie defender Owamagbe Odighizuwa in the long run, according to Oregon Live.

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While no one is pleased about Pierre-Paul's unfortunate fireworks-generated hand dismemberment during this year's Fourth of July weekend, the Giants are trying to see the good side of it and one probable advantage coming from the accident is the possibility of unleashing the 6-foot-3 Odighizuwa's potential more quickly that it has to be.

As of the moment, Pierre-Paul is still recovering from the mishap that resulted in a right index finger amputation and multiple fractures to his right thumb. It was reported that it would take at least six to eight weeks for the injury to completely heal, if there are no complications, and a few more before the two-time Pro Bowler can get back in practice with his teammates.

This means that Pierre-Paul is likely to miss several regular season games before he can be re-inserted again in the lineup.

Furthermore, there are no guarantees of how effective the Deerfield Beach native would again be after he heals, which prompted the team's management to withhold the $60 million long-term deal that he was supposed to sign this offseason.

The Giants' defensive line would surely be affected by Pierre-Paul's absence, but Odighizuwa will be given enough playing time to grow in his place because of it.

NJ Advance Media's Nick Powell suggested that the former UCLA standout could temporarily replace Pierre-Paul in the team's defense. Powell noted that Odighizuwa's work ethic and repute as a reliable run defender in college is a great starting point for coaches to help him improve his "raw pass rushing skills."

The Washington Post suggested that aside from Odighizuwa, six-year veteran Robert Ayers could also be considered as Pierre-Paul's interim replacement. While rated as the Top 6 Best Pass Rusher in the league, one point of concern with Ayers is his susceptibility to injuries.

Last year, he tore his pectoral muscle during the team's Week 14 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, which sidelined him for the rest of the season. He then sprained his ankle during this summer's OTAs, which makes his durability questionable in the long term.

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