Osi

Umenyiora

There’s an outside chance the team could switch to a 3-4 defense, but we doubt it. We don’t see either replacement above having IDP value.

He’s getting an IV in the locker room and will probably return.

The Bergen Record has a similar report, stating that it is a “probably to definite possibility” that Umenyiora will sit out one more week. Coach Tom Coughlin is hoping Umenyiora can get some practice work in later this week.

Umenyiora was considered a long-shot to take the field against the Eagles, and is eyeing Week 4 against the Cardinals for his 2011 debut. Jason Pierre-Paul has shined in Umenyiora’s absence, notching eight tackles, three sacks and a forced fumble.

“I feel like I can play,” he said. “If they take me on the trip, I am going to play.” Umenyiora is officially questionable after turning in three straight limited practices to end the week, and the Giants have said they will exercise caution. However, he is expected to be in for a full workload if active, particularly with LE Justin Tuck’s (neck) status in doubt.

Obviously an important first step toward Umenyiora making his 2011 debut Sunday. As long as he feels good in pre-game warmups, he should be a go. The status of fellow DE Justin Tuck (neck) remains up in the air.

Umenyiora has participated in limited practices for two straight days. “It’s good to have him back,” DC Perry Fewell said. “He’s got fresh legs as we say. He is quick off the ball and he is excited to be back out.” Umenyiora could be rushed into a major role with Justin Tuck’s (neck, groin) status in question this week.

It will be Umenyiora’s season debut. If Tuck is indeed sidelined, Jason Pierre-Paul will draw draw the start, and Umenyiora could approach a full workload. Beanie Wells (questionable, hamstring), who is likely to play, comes in as our No. 19 ranked running back for Week 4.

Umenyiora admitted to feeling “the worst I’ve ever felt in my life” following his two-sack 2011 debut last Sunday, but says he was dealing with “football soreness” more than anything else. He’ll get a Seahawks’ offensive line in Week 5 that’s allowed 14 sacks of Tarvaris Jackson through its first four games this season.

“If it came down to me taking less to stay here, I would,” he said. It’s an extremely surprising admission since Umenyiora spent much of the past two years complaining about his contract. He recently adopted a different approach, however, vowing to remain “really quiet.” If Umenyiora is amenable to a hometown discount, his chances of landing an extension would increase dramatically.