A few months ago, it was almost impossible to envision Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul nearing a return to the field.
A terrifying fireworks accident on Independence Day weekend left him with an amputated right index finger, severe thumb damage and nerve issues throughout his dominant hand. And yet, the team agreed on terms of a one-year contract on Tuesday.
Wednesday, Tom Coughlin said that Pierre-Paul, though a few weeks away from the playing field, will likely join the club in New Orleans this weekend.
He weighed in at 268.
The next week will be crucial for the Giants, who could absolutely take their surprising defense to another level if Pierre-Paul is even a shell of his older self. That will be the goal, to find out how much of Pierre Paul's strength and speed will carry over.
At this point, the most optimistic fan is looking at a 4-3 team atop the NFC East getting better. The pessimist will say that Pierre-Paul, typically more of a bruiser and run-stopper than your Aldon Smith-types, could be thrust into a spot role that may not suit him.
The good news is that we get to find out in 2015 after a very scary summer.
