There are layers upon layers of storylines and conjecture and ramifications to the events of the week around the Giants that leads to Eli Manning starting Monday night against the Eagles in Philadelphia.
Rookie Daniel Jones has a walking boot encased around his right foot and is dealing with a high ankle sprain, an injury that prompted the call for Manning out of the bullpen.
One player goes down, the next man on the depth chart moves up.
It is simple, really, but not uncomplicated.
Here is, hopefully, some clarity injected into the situation:
- It is hard to fathom how this sudden turn of events either hurts or helps Pat Shurmur as he tries to find his way to a few wins and save his job for 2020. Jones, in 10 starts, has a body of evidence already and his development under Shurmur is well-documented, regardless of whether he plays in one or two or no more games this season. Shurmur was adamant that Jones play out the season and gave no thought to giving the 22-year-old a game off to settle himself. No thought whatsoever. Shurmur is tethered to Jones, and no matter how Manning performs, it has no effect on what ownership thinks of the head coach moving forward.
- Now then, if Manning turns back the clock and lights it up, the decision-makers could be inclined to think: “Why were we in such a rush to start the clock on Daniel Jones?’’ Then John Mara and Steve Tisch will recall how the MetLife Mausoleum felt after that desultory loss to the Bills in Week 2 — Manning’s most recent start — and acknowledge they signed off on Shurmur’s haste to make the move.
- There is no sentiment to look at the record, realize all is lost and shut Jones down for the last four games. The anticipation is his ankle will heal before this month runs out. If so, he moves back in as the starter, unless, of course, the medical staff believe there is a risk of re-injury or concern that Jones will be immobile and thus not be able to protect himself.
- This is a legit injury. Jones’ ankle was sore on Monday and worsened overnight. The ankle was swollen Tuesday morning and it became apparent to the medical staff that he was not going to be able to play this week. When is the last time you heard someone diagnosed with this particular injury and not miss any time? It is called the “dreaded’’ high ankle sprain for a reason.
- There are those close to Manning fully cognizant of what he is getting into and, especially after seeing the Giants offensive line at work this season, worry about this return. They hope the offense can have some success but understand Manning cannot block for himself and certainly cannot escape heavy pressure with his legs.
- This is not a showcase for Manning to launch a comeback in 2020. If any player has enough tape on him, it is Manning. Prospective teams — are there any out there? — do not need to see Manning for a game or two to determine if there is anything left in his tank. This is not any more or less than it appears to be.