New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul severely injured his hands in an fireworks accident on the 4th of July, while celebrating in South Florida.
“A source told ESPN.com that Pierre-Paul has severe burns on his palm and tips of three fingers, and one finger 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.”
Both Adam Schefter of ESPN and Bleacher Report NFL Insider Jason Cole both say the injuries are not career threatening.
Earlier this morning Schefter tweeted, “Jason Pierre-Paul expected to meet with doctors, they will have their say, but early indications are, hand injury is not career threatening.”
Jordan Raanan of NJ.com just tweeted, “Jason Pierre-Paul remains at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami as of this morning w/his family. No further update on his status”.
So the injuries may not be career threatening but they were serious enough to put JPP in the hospital for a few days.
Pierre-Paul had the franchise tag put on him by the Giants. He’s been tendered $14.8 million dollars by the Giants this year, but New York could remove the franchise tag, if these injuries were considered to be career threatening. At the moment, they aren’t expected to harm his ability to rush the quarterback.
The Giants defense won’t be the same if Pierre-Paul isn’t healthy and getting pressure on the quarterback.
JPP hasn’t been the impact player the Giants were hoping for the last 2 Seasons after a fast start to his Career.. This is a Big Year for Him in terms
of getting that Long-Term Deal he desires that Elite Pass-Rushers receive..
Last year he had 12.5 sacks and was a consistent force on a terrible defense last year. He also played all 16 games for the first time a fine seasons. I think this injury definitely sets him back, but JPP is still can be a game changer when he’s healthy.
JPP did have a better Year in 2014 than his previous 2 Seasons
His Career Stats after 5 Seasons
2010 – 16 GP 30 Tackles, 4.5 Sacks, 2 FF & 6 Passes /Defended
2011 – 16 GP 86 Tackles, 16.5 Sacks, 2 FF & 7 Passes Defended
2012 – 16 GP 66 Tackles, 6.5 Sacks, 1 FF, 1 INT and 5 Passes Defended
2013 – 11 GP 27 Tackles, 2 Sacks, 0 FF, 1 INT & 4 Passes Defended
2014 – 16 GP 77 Tackles, 12.5 Sacks 3 FF & 6 Passes Defended