New York Giants cornerback Adoree’ Jackson (knee) and safety Xavier McKinney (hand) each returned to practice this week but their status for Week 17 remains unclear.
Jackson was limited on both Wednesday and Thursday, while McKinney had his 21-day window opened on Thursday.
“It just sucks not being able to play with them. That’s the most frustrating part in the eyes of a competitor and the eyes of an athlete — wanting to be out there,” Jackson told reporters. “I’m out there itching and working to get back out there.”
“Man, I want to get back big time. The coaches know that, and the trainers know that. They know that I really want to get back and I’m kind of running out of patience here,” McKinney said.
Despite both players pushing to return, it’s unlikely McKinney will be able to make it back in time to play the Indianapolis Colts. Jackson is more likely, but he seemed to indicate that he’s not quite ready yet.
“I think that the thing with that is just getting those live reps and not rushing into something, but at the same time, doing the right increments to get yourself ready and prepared,” Jackson said. “Whenever I get out there — I’m sprinkled in now — be able to sustain it. I can (cut) once, twice. But can you do it out there (for) 70 plays in that aspect? Just make sure it’s strong, healthy, stable to be able to keep doing it play after play.”
Although Jackson is being cautious, McKinney insists he’s ready to go right now.
“I’m telling them I can play, but like I said it’s up to the trainers, the docs. I know that they’re going to make the best choice and best decision but I’m trying to get back out there,” said McKinney, who was catching passes on Thursday. “Obviously, I’m trying to get back out there so I have to test it out. Anything that I can do to provide a little bit of contact against it, obviously I’m trying to do that to see how much I can take, what I need to do, what I don’t need to do. Everything felt fine when I did it.”
The Giants will issue final injury designations on Friday afternoon. If Jackson can get through a third limited practice, he will likely be listed as questionable.
Because McKinney is still technically on the non-football injury list, he will not receive a designation.
