Mario

Manningham

The team’s top priority is believed to be re-signing FS Reggie Nelson, but the Bengals have the salary cap room to plug holes at running back and wide receiver as well. Profootballtalk’s Gregg Rosenthal astutely pointed out that Bush may have cemented his 2012 role as a complementary back after fading under a heavy workload in the final six weeks of the season.

We’re talking Clayton’s update with a grain of salt this early in the week. If Fletcher does end up sitting out, though, the Rams could be without both starting corners in Week 2. Mario Manningham and perhaps Domenik Hixon would be set up for success if Hakeem Nicks (knee) can’t go.

He’s out for the game, finishing with three catches for 56 yards on seven targets. Manningham hit his head on the turf after making a 31-yard grab right before halftime, and wasn’t on the field for the Giants’ first series in the third quarter. Word then came down that he suffered a concussion, making him the second Giants receiver (Domenik Hixon) lost for the game in a span of five minutes. Super Mario’s Week 3 is in doubt.

Head coach Tom Coughlin said Manningham indeed suffered a concussion, and we’re more apt to believe the person that doesn’t potentially have the head injury, especially with news that he didn’t pass a concussion test. Super Mario will likely undergo further testing on Tuesday, so look for an update then. For now, consider him questionable for Week 3 against the Eagles, especially with one less day to heal up.

Much like Michael Vick on Sunday night, Manningham was unable to pass his baseline tests last night and was therefore not cleared to return. He’ll have to follow the NFL protocol for concussions in order to play on Sunday, something that may be difficult on a short week. Domenik Hixon is Manningham’s backup.

A host of notable names, but no one unexpected. Victor Cruz is taking Manningham’s place opposite Hakeem Nicks. Jason Pierre-Paul will make his third straight start in place of Umenyiora, who is expected to return in Week 4.

Manningham was listed as doubtful after missing his third straight practice Friday, and was never likely to suit up this week. Victor Cruz will start in his place opposite Hakeem Nicks, and should be in for a long afternoon against Philadelphia’s elite secondary.

Manningham has avoided a setback this week and should be good to go against the Cardinals on Sunday. He is Rotoworld’s 23rd-ranked fantasy receiver in a plus matchup.

If you ask Manningham about his practice participations, he’ll say he was doing all of the team drills all week. The Cardinals will have a lot of trouble with Mario’s deep speed in Week 4. He’s a very high-upside WR2/3 start, particularly with Eli Manning and the Giants’ passing game starting to click.

Manningham is going to get some leash despite last week’s benching. “He will get more than his fair shot at being ‘The Guy,’” said offensive coordinator Kevin Gilbride. Giants beat writers are predicting a breakout game today for Manningham, especially with Marcus Trufant sidelined. He’s a high-risk, high-reward WR3 option.