Drew Lock is expected to start at quarterback for the New York Giants in their matchup against the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday, as the team aims to end a franchise-record 10-game losing streak.Lock’s status became uncertain following last weekend’s 34-7 loss to Atlanta, where he suffered a right shoulder injury. After undergoing an MRI on Monday, Coach Brian Daboll confirmed on Tuesday that Lock would be the starter if he remained healthy.
“It came back good, so I’m rocking and rolling,” Lock said, explaining that the injury occurred during a third-down pass to Daniel Bellinger in the first quarter when Falcons linebacker Matthew Judon pulled his arm. Lock managed to finish the game despite the injury.
There were concerns that Daboll might revert to Tommy DeVito after Lock’s performance against the Falcons, which included two pick-6s and a fumble on a strip-sack. Lock has thrown three interceptions returned for scores in his three starts this season, two of which were on tipped passes. Daboll emphasized the importance of allowing Lock to gain experience through consistent practice reps.
“Knowing what we did the week before, we can take the things we need to improve on into this week and actually go out there and do it,” Lock said. “Having similar cadences and being in the huddle together can only be a positive after such a roller coaster in that position.”
The Giants may face a change at center, as John Michael Schmitz is dealing with an ankle injury and did not practice on Tuesday, leaving the facility with a boot on his right foot. In Schmitz’s absence, veteran guard Greg Van Roten has stepped in at center, and Lock has also worked with guard Austin Schlottmann in the past during his time in Denver.“I’m pretty familiar with all the guys that are rotating in there,” Lock noted.
The Giants currently have the NFL’s lowest-scoring offense, averaging just 14.3 points per game. Following their bye week, they benched Daniel Jones, who later requested his release from the team. Since then, DeVito has started two games and Lock three, with the team scoring a total of 59 points in those contests, including 20 points against Dallas in a seven-point loss on Thanksgiving.
Several players, including running back Tyrone Tracy (ankle), wide receiver Malik Nabers (knee-foot), cornerback Greg Stroman (shoulder-shin), defensive tackle Cory Durden (shoulder), inside linebacker Micah McFadden (neck), and cornerback Dru Phillips (shoulder), did not practice on Tuesday, which is typically a day off for the team. The Giants will take Christmas Day off and resume practice on Thursday.
During Tuesday’s practice, the Giants set a festive mood by playing “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” over the loudspeakers in their indoor facility.Former quarterback Daniel Jones, now on the Minnesota Vikings practice squad, sent Christmas gifts to the Giants’ offensive linemen.“DJ comes in, saves me and Tommy once again, and then takes care of the guys,” Lock remarked. “I expected nothing less from him. That’s just who he is; he cares about these guys.”
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