The New York Giants have suffered a significant setback after placing veteran wide receiver Calvin Austin III on injured reserve, bringing his first season with the team to an early end.
Austin suffered a torn ACL during Tuesday’s practice at the Quest Diagnostics Training Center in a non-contact injury that briefly stopped the session as teammates and coaches gathered around him.
Head coach John Harbaugh said the injury was a major blow because Austin had been performing at a high level in multiple areas.
The veteran receiver had established an important role on both offense and special teams, making the sudden nature of the injury especially difficult for the team.
Harbaugh expressed his support for Austin and said the organization will stand behind him throughout what is expected to be a lengthy recovery process.
Austin had recently shown his versatility during the Giants’ preseason victory in Miami, contributing in several different ways.
He returned two punts for 29 yards, caught two passes for 24 yards and added 21 rushing yards. His ability to contribute as a receiver, runner and return specialist had made him a valuable part of the Giants’ plans heading into the regular season.
Originally selected by Pittsburgh in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft, Austin played 48 regular-season games for the Steelers and recorded 84 receptions for 1,100 yards and eight touchdowns.
He also added 57 rushing yards and a touchdown, while building an impressive résumé as a punt returner. One of his career highlights came in 2024, when he returned a punt 73 yards for a touchdown against the Giants.
With Austin now sidelined, the Giants will have to rely on their remaining depth at wide receiver as they prepare for the regular season.
The team has several notable options at the position, including Malik Nabers, Darius Slayton, Darnell Mooney, Odell Beckham Jr., Jalin Hyatt and rookie Malachi Fields.
Offensive coordinator Matt Nagy acknowledged that losing Austin is a blow but emphasized that the Giants must follow the familiar “next man up” approach and adjust accordingly.
The Giants will close out the preseason against the New York Jets on Friday night before turning their attention to final roster decisions.
The team must finalize its 53-man roster two days later, and Austin’s injury could create an opportunity for another receiver to step into a larger role as the Giants move forward without one of their most versatile offensive and special teams contributors.
