Giants RB Saquon Barkley expected to sit out Dolphins matchup

Saquon Barkley is unlikely to play in the New York Giants' game against the Miami Dolphins due to an ankle injury.

In a disappointing turn of events for New York Giants fans, star running back Saquon Barkley is unlikely to take the field for the team's upcoming game against the Miami Dolphins. Multiple reports suggest that Barkley, who has been dealing with a high ankle sprain, will need more time to recover before he is ready to play.

Although Barkley was officially listed as questionable on the team's injury report, it seems that he has not made enough progress in his recovery to be deemed fit for Sunday's game. This is a blow to the Giants, who have already been struggling with injuries to key offensive linemen. Left tackle Andrew Thomas, center John Michael Schmitz, and guard Shane Lemieux are all out with various injuries, leaving the offense vulnerable and unable to protect their quarterback.

The Giants' offensive line issues were evident in their recent game against the Seattle Seahawks, where they allowed a staggering 11 sacks. Without Barkley in the backfield to provide an additional threat, the Giants' offense will face an even greater challenge against the Dolphins' defense.

The Dolphins, on the other hand, have their own injury concerns heading into the game. Center Connor Williams and outside linebacker Jaelan Phillips are both listed as questionable, adding uncertainty to their starting lineup. In an effort to bolster their defense, the Dolphins have elevated edge defender Chase Winovich from the practice squad to the active roster for the game. However, they have not made any changes to their offensive line, despite the questionable status of reserve lineman Lester Cotton.

Meanwhile, the Dolphins made a recent trade to acquire wide receiver Chase Claypool from the Chicago Bears. Although Claypool is not expected to play in Sunday's game due to the quick turnaround, he has already been assigned a jersey number with his new team. Claypool will don the No. 84 jersey, as his previous NFL numbers were already taken by other Miami wide receivers.

The Dolphins' trade for Claypool also included a draft pick exchange, with the Bears receiving a 2025 sixth-round pick in return for Claypool and a 2025 seventh-round pick. This move highlights the Dolphins' commitment to strengthening their receiving corps and adding depth to their roster.

Overall, the absence of Saquon Barkley and the injury concerns for both teams add an extra layer of uncertainty to this upcoming matchup between the Giants and the Dolphins. Both teams will need to make adjustments and rely on their depth to overcome these challenges and secure a victory.