It's another day and another injury for the New York Giants' defense.
NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported that Big Blue defensive lineman Robert Ayers will have his season end due to a torn pectoral muscle and will be placed on injured reserve, according to a source who has spoken to the player.
ESPN New York first reported the news.
Ayers was having a stellar first season in New York after signing a two-year, $4 million contract in April, which looked like a bargain a few weeks ago.
The 29-year-old defensive end was tied for the team lead in sacks, with five, despite playing in a rotation and was Pro Football Focus' No. 4 overall 4-3 defensive end and No. 3 in pass rushing.
It's another giant loss in a spiraling Big Blue season, as are Mathias Kiwanuka and Adam Snyder, who join Ayers on IR.
Here are some other injury storylines we are following Tuesday:
- Titans quarterback Zach Mettenberger suffered a Grade 1 AC joint sprain in his right (throwing) shoulder, Rapoport reported, according to a source who has spoken to the player. The team thinks he can play Sunday.
Some bad news: Tennessee placed wide receiver Justin Hunteron season-ending injured reserve with a lacerated spleen.
- Per the Houston Chronicle, Texans pass rusher Jadeveon Clowneywill receive a second opinion on his knee Wednesday from noted Dr. James Andrews.
- Tyrann Mathieu will have surgery on his fractured thumb and will be out "a couple weeks," according to the team. Honey Badger will then play with a cast.
- The Bears saw a pair of players remain on the sidelines during Tuesday's practice. Wide receiver Alshon Jeffery sat out Tuesday.
Kicker Robbie Gould was sore and didn't go, but coach Marc Trestmandidn't seem concerned.
Safety Chris Conte made his return after leaving Thanksgiving's game with an eye injury.
- Rex Ryan said Nick Folk told the team he was dealing with some hip discomfort on Monday night. The Jets coach said the kicker has a hip flexor injury. Rex added that tight end Jace Amaro is in the concussion protocol.
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