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The New York Giants host the Arizona Cardinals in Week 7, and they are on the verge of getting two huge names back for the game. Running back Saquon Barkley (ankle) and tight end Evan Engram (knee) were both full participants in practice on Wednesday, according to team beat writer Art Stapleton. Wide receiver Sterling Shepard (concussion) was a limited participant, according to Dan Salomone.
Barkley is working to return from a Week 3 high ankle sprain. He did not play last week against the Patriots after three straight limited practices. Engram is working back from a Week 5 MCL sprain that cost him the team’s Week 6 matchup. He was limited on Tuesday but a DNP on Wednesday, so a full workout today is a significant upgrade.
Shepard has been in the concussion protocol since the close of Week 5. It’s his second concussion of the season, so it could still be some time before he clears the protocol.
Fantasy football analysis, Giants RB Saquon Barkley, TE Evan Engram
This is great news for the Giants, and particularly rookie quarterback Daniel Jones. He was limited to Golden Tate and a bunch of dudes last week against the Patriots. The Giants defense gave them a chance in the first half, but aside from Tate, nobody could get going and they ended up losing big.
Barkley has been chomping at the bit to get back, and would immediately be a top ten running back — if not better. The Cardinals rank 25th in run defense efficiency, and represent a solid return matchup for Barkley. He’d move back into must start territory immediately.
Engram would be a huge return against the Cardinals because of how awful they are defending tight ends. No team has given up more fantasy points to the tight end position, and Engram — even at least than 100 percent — is one of the best. He would be a must start.
Shepard seems likely to be a game-time decision against Arizona depending on his movement through the concussion protocol. If he plays, there’s a question of who between him and Golden Tate sees more targets. He’s a decent flex if healthy, but there’s a good chance you’ll have a better option this week.