The knee gives way in practice
Calvin Austin III will not play in the 2026 season. The New York Giants receiver tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee on Tuesday during practice. ESPN reported the diagnosis on Wednesday morning.
The injury happened on a one-on-one drill against cornerback Deonte Banks. Austin’s right knee gave out without contact. Team-mates gathered around him on the field. John Mara, the franchise co-owner, followed the cart that took the player away, then patted his helmet and shoulder pads.
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A summer gamble goes up in smoke
New York signed Austin in the off-season. A one-year deal worth $1.5 million. A modest bet on a 27-year-old coming off three seasons in Pittsburgh.
The Steelers drafted him in the fourth round in 2022. He put up 84 catches, 1,100 yards and eight touchdowns in 48 regular-season games, with 16 starts. Last season, he hauled in 31 passes for 372 yards and three touchdowns in 14 games, starting seven times.
The Giants had pencilled him in as their slot receiver. That plan is dead before the first meaningful snap.
Berrios or Beckham to fill the void
Two names are already in the frame to take over the role. Braxton Berrios, who is already on the roster, looks the likeliest fit. Odell Beckham Jr. is the other option, and the more romantic one. The veteran started his career in New York, spending his first five seasons there before moving on to Cleveland.
The schedule does not leave much wiggle room. The Giants open the regular season on September 13 at home to Dallas. Three weeks to find a fix.
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