Team news: Tampa Bay Buccaneers | Page 36

New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard is active for Week 7 against the Philadelphia Eagles.

This will be Shepard's first contest since Week 2. He was a game-time decision today, so he could see his snaps limited in his first game back. Shepard was not exactly lighting the world on fire with his play when he was healthy, but there is no denying that his presence on the field should help to raise Daniel Jones' ceiling against a weak secondary.

The New York Giants have activated wide receiver Sterling Shepard off injured reserve, opening up the possibility that he can play against the Philadelphia Eagles tonight on Thursday Night Football.

Shepard will be a game-time decision for Thursday Night Football, as he will test things out prior to the game before a final decision is made on his status. The slot receiver has been sidelined since Week 2 with a toe injury. Shepard could help spark an offense that has struggled without Saquon Barkley. He may see his snaps limited if he does start, so bear that in mind when making any Week 7 lineup decisions involving him.

The Giants designated Shepard (toe) for return from IR on Tuesday.

Related players: Darius Slayton, Golden Tate

Reports say Shepard has been working on the side during recent weeks and took part in drills Tuesday, so he could be close to a return. The bad news for owners is the Giants are on a short week and play at Philly Thursday night. He has 21 days to return to the roster and the Giants get 11 days after their game on Thursday.

ESPN writer Bill Barnwell believes Drake is in the “very hot seat,” calling the running back “ordinary.”

Related players: Chase Edmonds

Drake’s longest run this season has been 16 yards, a far cry from the 80-yard TD last season, and is averaging 3.7 yards per carry — which is what he averaged in Miami in 2019 before being traded to Arizona. He’s also been lacking in the passing game, the story said. Meanwhile, Edmonds has been making the most of his limited work and there are those who follow the team calling for him to get more work. Drake was just OK in a good matchup against the Jets and has another good one Monday night against Dallas. Hopefully for owners he starts to take advantage.