5 things to know about LB Benardrick McKinney
The Giants announced on Tuesday that veteran linebacker Benardrick McKinney has been signed to the team's practice squad among a series of roster moves.
Here are five things to know about the 28-year-old linebacker:
1. Benardrick McKinney is entering his seventh season in the NFL after being drafted in the second round (43rd overall) of the 2015 NFL Draft by the Houston Texans. McKinney spent all of his first six seasons with the Texans before being traded to the Miami Dolphins this past offseason. He was released before the start of the regular season.
2. McKinney has played in 80 games with 77 career starts over the last six seasons. His career totals include 530 total tackles (314 solo), 11.5 sacks, 35 tackles for loss, 30 quarterback hits, four forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, one interception and 14 passes defended.
3. The linebacker put together his best all-around campaign in his second season back in 2016. Starting all 16 games, McKinney finished the year with 129 tackles (79 solo), five sacks, eight tackles for loss, 11 quarterback hits, one forced fumble and two pass breakups. His performance earned him a selection as Second-Team All-Pro.
Another one of his strongest seasons came in 2018 when he again started all 16 games. McKinney registered 105 tackles (63 solo), 1.5 sacks, five tackles for loss, five quarterback hits, one forced fumble, one interception and seven pass breakups that year on his way to his only Pro Bowl appearance.
4. After redshirting his initial year, McKinney went on to play three seasons at Mississippi State. He led all SEC freshman with 102 tackles in 2012 on his way to being named All-SEC Freshman honors by the conference's coaches. He would go on to lead the team in tackles and sacks in his sophomore campaign. As a redshirt junior in 2014, McKinney registered three sacks, eight tackles for loss, one forced fumble, three fumble recoveries and three pass breakups. He was named First-Team All-SEC in addition to being selected as a First-Team All-American by the Football Writers Association of America.
5. McKinney was born in Tunica, Mississippi where he attended Rosa Fort High School. While there, he played quarterback in addition to linebacker. In his senior season, he accounted for 2,036 total yards of offense and 22 touchdowns (15 passing, seven rushing) with 1,334 passing and 702 yards on the ground. On the defensive side of the ball, he was credited with 66 tackles. McKinney also served as the team's punter during his junior season, and additionally started for the Rosa Fort basketball team. He then went on to Mississippi State, where he majored in industrial technology.
View photos of new Giants linebacker Bernardrick McKinney.
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) looks on during the 2016 NFL week 10 regular season football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday, Nov. 13, 2016 in Jacksonville, Fla. The Texans won the game 24-21. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) defends during an NFL regular season football game against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2020 in Houston. The Vikings won, 31-23. (Ric Tapia via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) in coverage during in an NFL divisional playoff football game against the Kansas City Chiefs, Sunday, Jan. 12, 2020, in Kansas City, Mo. Kansas City won 51-31. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) lines up for the snap during an NFL football game against the Minnesota Vikings, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2020, in Houston. (AP Photo/Matt Patterson)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) drops into coverage during an NFL football game against the Tennessee Titans, Sunday Dec. 15, 2019 in Nashville. The Texans defeated the Titans 24-21. (Damian Strohmeyer via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) looks to defend during an NFL football game against the Minnesota Vikings, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2020, in Houston. (AP Photo/Matt Patterson)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) lines up for the snap during an NFL football game against the Minnesota Vikings, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2020, in Houston. (AP Photo/Matt Patterson)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) in action on defense against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 27, 2020, in Pittsburgh. The Steelers defeated the Texans 28-21. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) makes the tackle on C.J. Ham (30) during an NFL football game against the Minnesota Vikings, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2020, in Houston. (AP Photo/Matt Patterson)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) sets into position against the Kansas City Chiefs in an NFL divisional playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 12, 2020, in Kansas City. The Chiefs won the game 51-31. (Paul Jasienski via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney looks on between plays against the Kansas City Chiefs during a NFL divisional playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 12, 2020 in Kansas City, Mo. The Chiefs won, 51-31. (G. Newman Lowrance via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) in coverage during in an NFL divisional playoff football game against the Kansas City Chiefs, Sunday, Jan. 12, 2020, in Kansas City, Mo. Kansas City won 51-31. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) lines up for the snap during an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Sept. 20, 2020, in Houston. (AP Photo/Matt Patterson)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) warms up before an NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Sept. 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney runs on the field against the Kansas City Chiefs during a NFL divisional playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 12, 2020 in Kansas City, Mo. The Chiefs won, 51-31. (G. Newman Lowrance via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) plays against the Kansas City Chiefs in the first half of an NFL football game Thursday, Sept. 10, 2020, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) drops back into coverage against the Buffalo Bills in an NFL wild-card playoff football game, Saturday, Jan. 4, 2020 in Houston. The Texans won the game in overtime 22-19. (Paul Jasienski via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) stands on the field against the Buffalo Bills in an NFL wild-card playoff football game, Saturday, Jan. 4, 2020 in Houston. The Texans won the game in overtime 22-19. (Paul Jasienski via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) stretches on the field prior to an NFL divisional playoff football game against the Kansas City Chiefs, Sunday, Jan. 12, 2020, in Kansas City, Mo. The Chiefs beat the Texans 51-31. (Cooper Neill via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) looks across the line of scrimmage during an NFL wild-card playoff football game against the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Jan. 4, 2020, in Houston. The Texans defeated the Bills in overtime, 22-19. (Ryan Kang via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) looks into the backfield against the Buffalo Bills during an NFL wild-card playoff football game, Saturday, Jan. 4, 2020, in Houston. The Texans defeated the Bills 22-19 in overtime. (Kevin Terrell via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) lines up on the line of scrimmage during in an NFL wild-card playoff football game against the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Jan. 4, 2020, in Houston. Houston won 22-19 in overtime. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) rushes during an NFL wild-card playoff football game against the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Jan. 4, 2020, in Houston. The Texans defeated the Bills in overtime, 22-19. (Ryan Kang via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) walks out the tunnel before an NFL football game against the Tennessee Titans, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. The Texans beat the Titans 24-21. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) rushes during an NFL wild-card playoff football game against the Buffalo Bills, Saturday, Jan. 4, 2020, in Houston. The Texans defeated the Bills in overtime, 22-19. (Ryan Kang via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) between plays during an NFL football game against the Tennessee Titans, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. The Texans beat the Titans 24-21. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) in coverage during an an NFL football game against the New England Patriots, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in Houston. Houston won 28-22. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) in coverage during an an NFL football game against the New England Patriots, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in Houston. Houston won 28-22. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) in coverage during an an NFL football game against the New England Patriots, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in Houston. Houston won 28-22. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) in coverage during an an NFL football game against the New England Patriots, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in Houston. Houston won 28-22. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney warms up before an NFL football game against the Tennessee Titans Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Zaleski)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) defends during an NFL football game against the Indianapolis Colts, Thursday, Nov. 21, 2019, in Houston. The Texans beat the Colts 20-17. (Cooper Neill via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) during the first half of an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos Sunday, Dec. 8, 2019, in Houston. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) reacts during an NFL football game against the Indianapolis Colts, Thursday, Nov. 21, 2019, in Houston. Houston won 20-17. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Houston Texans' Benardrick McKinney (55) lines up against the New England Patriots during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in Houston. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) celebrates after he sacked New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in Houston. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) defends during an NFL football game against the Indianapolis Colts, Thursday, Nov. 21, 2019, in Houston. The Texans beat the Colts 20-17. (Cooper Neill via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) reacts after a play during an NFL football game against the New England Patriots, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in Houston. The Texans beat the Patriots 28-22. (Cooper Neill via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) defends during an NFL football game against the New England Patriots, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in Houston. The Texans beat the Patriots 28-22. (Cooper Neill via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) in coverage during an NFL football game against the Indianapolis Colts, Thursday, Nov. 21, 2019, in Houston. Houston won 20-17. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) enters the field during an NFL game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Nov. 17, 2019 in Baltimore. The Ravens defeated the Texans 41-7 (Margaret Bowles via AP)
AFC linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55), of the Houston Texans, waits for a play during the first half of the NFL Pro Bowl football game against the NFC Sunday, Jan. 27, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) during pregame warmups before an NFL football game against the Oakland Raiders, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019, in Houston. The Texans beat the Raiders 27-24. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) in coverage during an NFL football game against the Indianapolis Colts, Thursday, Nov. 21, 2019, in Houston. Houston won 20-17. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) takes a defensive position during an NFL game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Nov. 17, 2019 in Baltimore. The Ravens defeated the Texans 41-7 (Margaret Bowles via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) defends during an NFL football game against the Indianapolis Colts, Thursday, Nov. 21, 2019, in Houston. The Texans beat the Colts 20-17. (Cooper Neill via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) lines up for the snap during an NFL football game against the Oakland Raiders, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019, in Houston. The Texans beat the Raiders 27-24. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) gets set during an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Chargers, Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019 in Carson, Calif. The Texans defeated the Chargers 27-20. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) warms up before an NFL football game against the Kansas City Chiefs in Kansas City, Mo., Sunday, Oct. 13, 2019. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) celebrates after he recovered a fumble during the first half of an NFL football game against the Carolina Panthers Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, in Houston. (AP Photo/Eric Christian Smith)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) takes the field before an NFL football game against the Carolina Panthers Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, in Houston. The Panthers beat the Texans 16-10. (Cooper Neill via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) charges off the line during a NFL AFC Wild Card playoff football game against the Indianapolis Colts, Saturday, Jan. 5, 2019 in Houston. The Colts won the game 21-7. (Paul Jasienski via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) reacts after a play during an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in Houston. The Texans beat the Jaguars 13-12. (Cooper Neill via AP)
Houston Texans Benardrick McKinney (55) in coverage during an NFL Pro Bowl football game on Sunday, Jan. 27, 2019 in Orlando, Fla. The AFC team won 26-7. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) during an NFL regular season game against the Tennessee Titans on Monday, Nov. 26, 2018 in Houston. The Texans won, 34-17. (Ric Tapia via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) closes to the ball in action against the New York Jets Saturday December 15, 2018 in East Rutherford, N.J. (Damian Strohmeyer via AP)
Houston Texans Benardrick McKinney (55) reacts during an NFL Pro Bowl football game on Sunday, Jan. 27, 2019 in Orlando, Fla. The AFC team won 26-7. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) looks across for the snap during the NFL Pro Bowl Football Game, Sunday, Jan. 27, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. The AFC beat the NFC 26-7. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) takes a defensive position during an NFL Wild Card game against the Indianapolis Colts, Saturday, Jan. 5, 2019 in Houston. (Margaret Bowles via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) during the first half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018, in Houston. (AP Photo/Eric Christian Smith)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) looks into the backfield during an NFL Week 13 game against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, in Houston. The Texans defeated the Browns 29-13. (Kevin Terrell via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) reacts to a play during the first half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018, in Houston. (AP Photo/Eric Christian Smith)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) lines up for the snap during a regular season Week 14 NFL football game between the Indianapolis Colts and the Houston Texans in Houston on Sunday, Dec. 9, 2018. The Colts beat the Texans 24-21. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) watches during pregame warmups before a regular season Week 13 NFL football game between the Cleveland Browns and the Houston Texans in Houston on Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018. The Texans beat the Browns 29-13. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) during pregame warmups before a regular season Week 13 NFL football game between the Cleveland Browns and the Houston Texans in Houston on Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018. The Texans beat the Browns 29-13. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) watches during pregame warmups before a regular season Week 13 NFL football game between the Cleveland Browns and the Houston Texans in Houston on Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018. The Texans beat the Browns 29-13. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) in action during the NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 23, 2018, in Philadelphia. The Philadelphia Eagles won 32-30. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) during an NFL regular season football game against the Denver Broncos on Sunday, Nov. 4, 2018 in Denver. The Texans won, 19-17. (Ric Tapia via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) rushes during an NFL game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018, Landover, MD. The Texans defeated the Redskins 23-21. (Al Tielemans via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) rushes during an NFL game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018, Landover, MD. The Texans defeated the Redskins 23-21. (Al Tielemans via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) rushes during an NFL game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018, Landover, MD. The Texans defeated the Redskins 23-21. (Al Tielemans via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) during the NFL week 8 regular season football game against the Miami Dolphins on Thursday, Oct. 25, 2018 in Houston. The Texans won the game 42-23. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) in coverage during an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos on Sunday, Nov. 4, 2018 in Denver. Houston won 19-17. (Peter Read Miller via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) during an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday, Oct. 21, 2018, in Jacksonville, Fla. (Tom DiPace via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) takes a defensive position during an NFL game against the Miami Dolphins, Thursday, Oct. 25, 2018 in Houston. (Margaret Bowles via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) during an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday, Oct. 21, 2018, in Jacksonville, Fla. (Tom DiPace via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) drops back into coverage during a NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Sunday, Oct. 21, 2018 in Jacksonville, Fla. The Texans won the game 20-7. (Paul Jasienski via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) takes a defensive position during an NFL game against the Miami Dolphins, Thursday, Oct. 25, 2018 in Houston. (Margaret Bowles via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) takles Denver Broncos tight end Jeff Heuerman (82) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 4, 2018, in Denver. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) celebrates during a week 5 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018 in Houston. Houston won 19-16 in overtime. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) celebrates during a week 5 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018 in Houston. Houston won 19-16 in overtime. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) celebrates during a week 5 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018 in Houston. Houston won 19-16 in overtime. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) celebrates after a tackle during a Week 3 NFL football game against the New England Patriots on Thursday, Sept. 22, 2016 in Foxborough, Mass. The Patriots beat the Texans 27-0. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) celebrates teammate Johnathan Joseph's touchdown against the Buffalo Bills during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 14, 2018, in Houston. (AP Photo/Eric Christian Smith)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) during an NFL regular season game against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday, Oct. 15, 2017 in Houston. The Texans won, 33-17. (Ric Tapia via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) in action during a Week 13 NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday, Dec. 4, 2016 in Green Bay, Wis. The Packers beat the Texans 21-13. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) looks into the backfield during an NFL Week 3 game against the New York Giants on Sunday, Sept. 23, 2018, in Houston. The Giants defeated the Texans 27-22. (Kevin Terrell via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) sacks Cleveland Browns quarterback Kevin Hogan (8) during an NFL regular season game on Sunday, Oct. 15, 2017 in Houston. The Texans won, 33-17. (Ric Tapia via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) await the snap during a Week 15 NFL game against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday, Dec. 18, 2016 in Houston. The Texans beat the Jaguars 21-20. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Cincinnati Bengals running back Rex Burkhead (33) is hit by Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) during the second half of an NFL football game Saturday, Dec. 24, 2016, in Houston. (AP Photo/Sam Craft)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) looks into the backfield during an NFL AFC Wild Card Game against the Kansas City Chiefs on January 9, 2016. The Chiefs defeated the Texans 30-0. (Kevin Terrell via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) looks across the line awaiting the snap during a Week 14 NFL football game against the New England Patriots on Sunday Dec. 13, 2015 in Houston. The Patriots beat the Texans 27-6. (Matt Patterson via AP)
San Diego Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers is sacked by Houston Texans' Benardrick McKinney during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 27, 2016, in Houston. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) rushes during an NFL Wild Card Playoff game between the Houston Texans and the Oakland Raiders on Saturday, Jan. 7, 2017 in Houston. The Texans beat the Raiders 27-14. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) tackles and sacks Colts quarterback Matt Hasselbeck (8) during a Week 15 NFL game against the Indianapolis Colts on Dec. 20, 2015, in Indianapolis. The Texans beat the Colts 16-10. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) lines up on defense during a Week 2 NFL football game against the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday, Sept. 18, 2016 in Houston. The Texans beat the Chiefs 19-12. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) during a Week 3 NFL football game against the New England Patriots on Thursday, Sept. 22, 2016 in Foxborough, Mass. The Patriots beat the Texans 27-0. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) runs in pursuit during a week 5 NFL football game against the Minnesota Vikings, Sunday, Oct 9, 2016, in Minneapolis. The Vikings won 31-13. (Scott Boehm via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) rushes during a Wild Card week NFL game against the Kansas City Chiefs on Saturday, Jan. 9, 2016, in Houston. The Chiefs won the game 30-0. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) rushes during the game against the Baltimore Ravens, Monday, Nov. 27, 2017, Baltimore. The Ravens defeated the Texans 23-16. (Al Tielemans via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) in action during a regular season Week 15 NFL football game between the Houston Texans and the Jacksonville Jaguars, Sunday December 17, 2017 in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jaguars beat the Texans 45-7 (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) sets into position during a NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Monday, December 25, 2017 in Houston. The Steelers won the game 34-6. (Paul Jasienski via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) during an NFL regular season game against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday, Oct. 15, 2017 in Houston. The Texans won, 33-17. (Ric Tapia via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) lines up during a Week 15 NFL game against the Indianapolis Colts on Dec. 20, 2015, in Indianapolis. The Texans beat the Colts 16-10. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans Benardrick McKinney (55) during an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday, Nov. 13, 2016 in Jacksonville, Fla.
(Tom DiPace via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) jogs to the sideline during a regular season Week 17 NFL football game between the Houston Texans and the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday December 31, 2017 in Indianapolis. The Colts beat the Texans 22-13 (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) rushes during a regular season Week 9 NFL football game between the Indianapolis Colts and the Houston Texans on Sunday November 5, 2017 in Houston. The Colts beat the Texans 20-14 (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) drops in coverage during a Week 16 NFL game against the Cincinnati Bengals on Saturday, Dec. 24, 2016 in Houston. The Texans beat the Bengals 12-10. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) in action during the NFL AFC Divisional football game against the New England Patriots on Saturday, Jan. 14, 2017 in Foxborough, Mass. The Patriots defeated the Texans 34-16. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) during an NFL football game between the Houston Texans against the Seattle Seahawks in Seattle, Sunday, Oct. 29, 2017. (Tom Hauck via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) before the snap during a regular season Week 15 NFL football game between the Houston Texans and the Jacksonville Jaguars, Sunday December 17, 2017 in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jaguars beat the Texans 45-7 (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) lines up for the snap during a regular season Week 12 NFL football game between the Houston Texans and the Baltimore Ravens, Monday November 27, 2017 in Baltimore. The Ravens beat the Texans 23-16 (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) pursues the ball carrier during a NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Sunday, September 10, 2017 in Houston. The Jaguars won the game 29-7. (Paul Jasienski via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) during an NFL regular season game against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday, Oct. 15, 2017 in Houston. The Texans won, 33-17. (Ric Tapia via AP)
Cincinnati Bengals tight end Tyler Eifert (85) gets tackled by Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) as he catches a 14 yard pass for a first down at the Texans 14 yard line in the first quarter during the 2015 week 10 regular season NFL football game against the Houston Texans on Monday, Nov. 16, 2015 in Cincinnati. The Texans won the game 10-6. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) rushes against Indianapolis Colts offensive lineman Anthony Castonzo (74) during a regular season Week 9 NFL football game between the Indianapolis Colts and the Houston Texans on Sunday November 5, 2017 in Houston. The Colts beat the Texans 20-14 (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) during pregame warmups before a regular season Week 10 NFL football game between the Houston Texans and the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday November 12, 2017 in Los Angeles. The Rams beat the Texans 33-7 (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) during an NFL regular season game against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday, Oct. 15, 2017 in Houston. The Texans won, 33-17. (Ric Tapia via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) looks to the crowd after a sack during a regular season Week 6 NFL football game between the Cleveland Browns and the Houston Texans on Sunday October 15, 2017 in Houston. The Texans beat the Browns 33-17 (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) in coverage during an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday, Nov. 12, 2017, in Los Angeles. (NFL Photos via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) waits for the snap during an AFC Wild Card game against the Kansas City Chiefs on Saturday, Jan. 9, 2016, in Houston, Texas. The Chiefs won the game, 30-0. (Greg Trott via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) in action during a Week 6 NFL football game against the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday, Oct. 9, 2016 in Houston. The Texans beat the Colts 26-23 in OT. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) in action during a Week 15 NFL game against the Indianapolis Colts on Dec. 20, 2015, in Indianapolis. The Texans beat the Colts 16-10. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans defensive back Andre Hal (29) defends during a Week 4 NFL football game against the Tennessee Titans on Sunday, Oct. 2, 2016 in Houston. The Texans beat the Titans 27-20. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) looks across the line of scrimmage during a Week 5 NFL game against the Indianapolis Colts on Thursday, Oct. 8, 2015, in Houston. The Colts won the game 27-20. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) questions an official's call during an NFL game against the Detroit Lions on Sunday, October 30, 2016. The Texans defeated the Lions 20-13. (Kevin Terrell via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) tackles tight end Jack Doyle (84) during a Week 5 NFL game against the Indianapolis Colts on Thursday, Oct. 8, 2015, in Houston. The Colts won the game 27-20. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) rushes during a Week 3 NFL football game against the New England Patriots on Thursday, Sept. 22, 2016 in Foxborough, Mass. The Patriots beat the Texans 27-0. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) in action during a Week 8 NFL football game against the Detroit Lions on Sunday, Oct. 30, 2016 in Houston. The Texans beat the Lions 20-13. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) rushes during a Week 5 NFL football game against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, Oct. 9, 2016 in Minneapolis, MN. The Vikings beat the Texans 31-13. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) between plays during a regular season Week 14 NFL football game between the San Francisco 49ers and the Houston Texans, Sunday December 10, 2017 in Houston. The 49ers beat the Texans 26-16 (Matt Patterson via AP)
Tennessee Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) is hit by Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 2, 2016, in Houston. (AP Photo/George Bridges)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) pursues the ball carrier during a NFL football game against the New England Patriots, Sunday, September 24, 2017 in Foxborough, Mass. The Patriots won the game 36-33. (Paul Jasienski via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) lines up before the snap during a regular season Week 4 NFL football game between the Tennessee Titans and the Houston Texans on Sunday October 1, 2017 in Houston. The Texans beat the Titans 57-14 (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) drops into coverage in action against the Baltimore Ravens on Monday November 27 2017 at M & T Bank Stadium in Baltimore. (Damian Strohmeyer via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) during pre game warmups before a Week 3 NFL football game against the New England Patriots on Thursday, Sept. 22, 2016 in Foxborough, Mass. The Patriots beat the Texans 27-0. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) during pregame warmups before a regular season Week 1 NFL football game between the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Houston Texans on Sept. 10, 2017 in Houston. The Jaguars beat the Texans 29-7 (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) rushes during an NFL Wild Card Playoff game between the Houston Texans and the Oakland Raiders on Saturday, Jan. 7, 2017 in Houston. The Texans beat the Raiders 27-14. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (75) walks the sideline before the start of the second half of a Week 6 NFL football game against the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday, Oct. 9, 2016 in Houston. The Texans beat the Colts 26-23 in OT. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) during a regular season Week 13 NFL football game between the Houston Texans and the Tennessee Titans, Sunday December 3, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn. The Titans beat the Texans 24-13 (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) in action during a Week 5 NFL football game against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, Oct. 9, 2016 in Minneapolis, MN. The Vikings beat the Texans 31-13. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) lines up during a regular season Week 1 NFL football game between the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Houston Texans on Sept. 10, 2017 in Houston. The Jaguars beat the Texans 29-7 (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) lines up for the snap during a regular season Week 5 NFL football game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Houston Texans on Sunday October 8, 2017 in Houston. The Chiefs beat the Texans 42-34 (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) rushes during a Week 4 NFL football game against the Tennessee Titans on Sunday, Oct. 2, 2016 in Houston. The Texans beat the Titans 27-20. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Houston Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney (55) in action during an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Oct. 29, 2017, in Seattle. The Seahawks defeated the Texans, 41-38. (Ryan Kang via AP)
Inside the Numbers: Sterling Shepard climbs franchise record books
Amani Toomer was the Giants' second-round draft choice in 1996, a transaction that proved to be a brilliant decision for both the player and the team. Chosen No. 34 overall, the wide receiver played his entire 13-year career for the Giants and is the franchise leader with 668 catches, 9,497 receiving yards and 54 touchdowns. Toomer also holds the postseason records with 44 receptions, 608 yards and seven scores.
Subsequent attempts to find a long-term standout at the position in the second round were not as fruitful, as Joe Jurevicius (1998), Tim Carter (2002), Sinorice Moss (2006), Steve Smith (2007) and Rueben Randle (2012) contributed either briefly or hardly at all (though Smith did set the Giants' single-season record in 2009 with 107 catches, about half his four-year total of 220).
The Giants again dipped into the second-round well for a receiver in 2016 and secured Oklahoma's Sterling Shepard with the 40th overall selection. And while he has a long way to go to approach Toomer's numbers, Shepard is quietly becoming one of the franchise's most productive wideouts.
Despite missing two games with a hamstring injury, Shepard leads the Giants this season with 28 receptions and is second with 299 yards, 18 less than rookie Kadarius Toney. He scored the Giants' first touchdown this season on a 37-yard pass from Daniel Jones against Denver.
Shepard caught 10 passes for 76 yards in the Giants' 38-11 loss to the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday. He raised his career total to 341 receptions, which moved him past Chris Calloway (334) and into eighth place on the franchise's career list. Pro Football Hall of Famer Frank Gifford is seventh with 367.
Shepard is fourth among wide receivers in team history, trailing only Toomer (668), Odell Beckham, Jr. (390) and Ike Hilliard (368).
His 76 receiving yards increased Shepard's total to 3,817, which vaulted him over Earnest Gray (3,768) and into 17th place on the franchise list. Lionel Manuel is 16th with 3,941 yards.
View photos from the career of Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard.
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New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) celebrates a touchdown catch during a week 1 football game against the Tennessee Titans on Sunday September 11, 2022 in Nashville, Tennesse (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) catches a touchdown pass during a week 1 football game against the Tennessee Titans on Sunday September 11, 2022 in Nashville, Tennesse (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
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New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) before a football game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday September 18, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
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New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) makes a catch during a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16th, 2021 in Landover, Maryland.
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) runs the ball during the first quarter of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) catches a pass against the San Francisco 49ers during the first half of an NFL football game in Santa Clara, Calif., Sunday, Nov. 12, 2017. (AP Photo/Ben Margot)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) celebrates against against the Washington Football Team during an NFL game, Thursday, Sep. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. Washington beat the Giants 30-29. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) runs with the ball as Los Angeles Chargers free safety Tre Boston (33) defends during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 8, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) celebrates during an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. Washington won 30-29. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) during a week 1 game against the Denver Broncos on September 12th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
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New York Giants at Washington Football Team 2021
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard takes the field prior to an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Chargers, Sunday, Oct. 8, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
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New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) catches a pass in the end zone for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Dec. 4, 2016. The Steelers won 24-14. (AP Photo/Don Wright)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) makes a catch during a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16, 2021 in Landover, Md The Washington Football Team beat the New York Giants 30-29. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) during a preseason game against the New England Patriots on Sunday August 29th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) scores a touchdown against the Cincinnati Bengals during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 14, 2016, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard works out during NFL football practice, Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2016, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard plays during the first half of a preseason NFL football game against the New York Jets Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) touches the Giants Pride sign before leaving the locker room for a NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles Sunday September 24, 2017 in Philadelphia. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
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New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) during a week 13 regular season game against the Green Bay Packers at MetLife Stadium on Sunday December 1st, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
WR Sterling Shepard (87)
New York Giants WR Sterling Shepard (87) during a week 5 game against the Minnesota Vikings at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ
New York Giants WR Sterling Shepard (87) during a week 5 game against the Minnesota Vikings at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard works out during the team's NFL football organized team activities, Tuesday, May 29, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) runs the ball against the Dallas Cowboys during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) during an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Dec. 24, 2017, in Glendale, Ariz. The Cardinals won 23-0. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) at preseason week 1 game against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ
New York Giants WR Sterling Shepard (87) during a regular season week 3 game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James in Tampa, FL.
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) tries to break a tackle by New York Jets linebacker Darron Lee (58) during the second quarter of a preseason NFL football game, Friday, Aug. 24, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) catches a pass during the second half of an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens Sunday, Oct. 16, 2016, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
WR Sterling Shepard (87) at New York Giants Training Camp 2019 at Quest Diagnostics Training Center in East Rutherford, NJ
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) makes a catch against the Minnesota Vikings during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) holds on to the ball as he gets past Miami Dolphins defensive back Nik Needham (40) in the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants' Darius Slayton, right, and Sterling Shepard celebrate after a touchdown by Slayton during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Monday, Dec. 9, 2019, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) reacts to a play in the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) and Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Rasul Douglas (32) collide in the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard runs during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Mark Tenally)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) leaps out of bounds just short of the end zone against the Miami Dolphins during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) moves off the line of scrimmage against Miami Dolphins cornerback Jomal Wiltz (33) NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) and running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrate Barkley's touchdown catch on a pass from quarterback Daniel Jones, not visible, during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Green Bay Packers won 31-13. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New York Giants' Sterling Shepard (87) celebrates his touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants' Sterling Shepard, left, scores a touchdown in front of Green Bay Packers' Kevin King during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) celebrates with quarterback Daniel Jones (8) after Shepard scored a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Green Bay Packers won 31-13. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) celebrates his touchdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with wide receiver Russell Shepard during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)
FILE - In this Oct. 6, 2019, file photo, New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard warms up before an NFL football game against the Minnesota Vikings in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants have placed Shepard back in the concussion protocol, ruling him out of their game against Dallas on Monday, Nov. 4, 2019. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger, File)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) tries to break the tackle of Chicago Bears strong safety Ha Ha Clinton-Dix (21) during the first half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) comes down just outside the end zone against the Minnesota Vikings during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard works out during NFL football practice, Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2016, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) in action against the Chicago Bears during an NFL football game on Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Rich Schultz)
Dallas Cowboys free safety Xavier Woods (25) defends as New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) looks for running room after catching a pass during a NFL football game in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2019. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
New York Giants' Sterling Shepard runs with the ball during the second half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Michael Perez)
FILE - In this Dec. 23, 2018, file photo, New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) makes a catch as Indianapolis Colts free safety Malik Hooker (29) defends during the first half of an NFL football game in Indianapolis. The Giants have signed Shepard to a four-year contract extension, the team announced Friday, April 12, 2019. (AP Photo/AJ Mast, File)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) in action against the Chicago Bears during an NFL football game on Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Rich Schultz)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) makes a catch over Indianapolis Colts cornerback Quincy Wilson (31) during the first half of an NFL football game in Indianapolis, Sunday, Dec. 23, 2018. (AP Photo/AJ Mast)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) tries to get past Indianapolis Colts outside linebacker Matthew Adams (49) during the first half of an NFL football game in Indianapolis, Sunday, Dec. 23, 2018. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) make sa catch over Indianapolis Colts cornerback Quincy Wilson (31) during the first half of an NFL football game in Indianapolis, Sunday, Dec. 23, 2018. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings)
New York Giants' Sterling Shepard (87) evades Tampa Bay Buccaneers defenders during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Sterling Shepard, front, makes a catch in front of New Orleans Saints' Ken Crawley during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) in action against the Washington Redskins during an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 28, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Redskins won 20-13. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants' Sterling Shepard, left, scores a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) runs with ball as Houston Texans defensive back Aaron Colvin (22) defends during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 23, 2018, in Houston. (AP Photo/Michael Wyke)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) celebrates after scoring a touchdown catch on a pass from quarterback Eli Manning, not pictured, during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) tries to break a tackle by New York Jets linebacker Darron Lee (58) during the second quarter of a preseason NFL football game, Friday, Aug. 24, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) during an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Dec. 24, 2017, in Glendale, Ariz. The Cardinals won 23-0. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Los Angeles Rams' Marqui Christian (41) closes in on New York Giants' Sterling Shepard (87) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 5, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard runs for a touchdown on a pass form quarterback Eli Manning, not pictured, during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) runs the ball against the Dallas Cowboys during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) runs the ball against the Dallas Cowboys during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017. (Winslow Townson/AP Images for Panini)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) runs past San Francisco 49ers defensive back Leon Hall (20) during the second half of an NFL football game in Santa Clara, Calif., Sunday, Nov. 12, 2017. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) runs against the San Francisco 49ers during an NFL football game in Santa Clara, Calif., Sunday, Nov. 12, 2017. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) runs past San Francisco 49ers defensive back Leon Hall (20) during the second half of an NFL football game in Santa Clara, Calif., Sunday, Nov. 12, 2017. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)
Los Angeles Rams' Nickell Robey-Coleman tackles New York Giants' Sterling Shepard (87) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 5, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
Detroit Lions defensive back Asa Jackson (30) tackles New York Giants' Sterling Shepard (87) after he catches a pass for a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 18, 2016, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) makes a pass reception against Green Bay Packers strong safety Micah Hyde (33) during the first half of an NFC wild-card NFL football game, Sunday, Jan. 8, 2017, in Green Bay, Wis. (AP Photo/Matt Ludtke)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) dives past Detroit Lions defensive back Asa Jackson and Rafael Bush (31) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 18, 2016, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) attempts to get by Los Angeles Chargers free safety Tre Boston (33) defends during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 8, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) before a week 8 regular season Monday Night football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at MetLife Stadium on November 2nd, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
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New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) during a week 15 regular season football game against the Cleveland Browns at MetLife Stadium on December 20th, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Denver Broncos' Ronald Darby (21) tackles New York Giants' Sterling Shepard (3) as Shepard scores a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
Sterling Shepard (3)
Darius Slayton (86), Sterling Shepard (3)
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New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) during a week 1 game against the Denver Broncos on September 12th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) during a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16th, 2021 in Landover, Maryland.
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) during a week 1 game against the Denver Broncos on September 12th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) evades a tackle from Denver Broncos cornerback Pat Surtain II (2) during an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) during a week 1 game against the Denver Broncos on September 12th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) prepares for the snap during an NFL game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Sept. 26, 2021, in East Rutherford, NJ. The Falcons defeated the Giants 17-14. (Al Tielemans via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) signals first down during a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16, 2021 in Landover, Md The Washington Football Team beat the New York Giants 30-29. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants' Sterling Shepard runs a route during the first half of an NFL football game Los Angeles Rams, Sunday, Oct. 17, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/John Munson)
New York Giants' Sterling Shepard runs a route during the second half of an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Rams, Sunday, Oct. 17, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) celebrates during an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. Washington won 30-29. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) during a week 1 football game against the Denver Broncos on Sunday September 12, 2021 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Denver Broncos won 27-13. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) runs with the ball during an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos, Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Denver Broncos won 27-13. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) before a football game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday September 18, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
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New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) during a football game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday September 18, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) during a football game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday September 18, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) catches a touchdown pass during a week 1 football game against the Tennessee Titans on Sunday September 11, 2022 in Nashville, Tennesse (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) catches a touchdown pass during a week 1 football game against the Tennessee Titans on Sunday September 11, 2022 in Nashville, Tennesse (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) celebrates a touchdown catch during a week 1 football game against the Tennessee Titans on Sunday September 11, 2022 in Nashville, Tennesse (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
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New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) during a week 11 NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday, November 19, 2023 in Landover, Maryland. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
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WR Sterling Shepard (3), WR Wan'Dale Robinson (17)
WR Sterling Shepard (3), Brian Daboll Head Coach
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) during an week 2 NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, September 17, 2023 in Glendale, Arizona (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) during a week 7 NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday, October 22, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) during a week 7 NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday, October 22, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
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New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) during an week 1 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, September 10, 2023 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) gets introduced before a week 12 NFL football game against the New England Patriots, Sunday, November 28, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) during a week 5 NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins, Sunday, October 8, 2023 in Miami, Florida (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
WR Sterling Shepard (3)
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New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) during a week 7 NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday, October 22, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
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New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) celebrates a touchdown by Saquon Barkley (26) during a Monday Night football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Monday September 26, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
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CB Darnay Holmes (30), WR Sterling Shepard (3)
WR Sterling Shepard (3), Victor Cruz
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Andrew Thomas, C.J. Board placed on injured reserve
Left tackle Andrew Thomas was placed on injured reserve in one of a series of roster moves announced this afternoon by the Giants.
Thomas, a starter since he was the fourth overall choice in the 2020 NFL Draft, hurt his ankle in the Giants' 38-11 loss to the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday. He missed the previous game with a foot injury. The two injuries are on different legs. Thomas was replaced by Nate Solder against the Cowboys and fellow second-year pro Matt Peart vs. the Rams.
Thomas must sit out at least three games before becoming eligible to return to the roster. The Giants play Carolina, Kansas City, and Las Vegas before their bye, so the earliest Thomas can return is the Nov. 22 Monday night game at Tampa Bay.
Wide receiver/return specialist C.J. Board was also put on injured reserve after suffering a fractured forearm against Los Angeles.
The Giants filled the roster vacancies created by the two I.R. moves by signing tackle Korey Cunningham and wide receiver Dante Pettis off their practice squad.
View photos of the New York Giants' active 53-man roster as it currently stands.
RB Saquon Barkley
RB Devontae Booker
CB James Bradberry
G Ben Bredeson
RB Gary Brightwell
LB Lorenzo Carter
WR Pharoh Cooper
DB Keon Crossen
LB Tae Crowder
OT Korey Cunningham
P Riley Dixon
TE Evan Engram
QB Jake Fromm
K Graham Gano
FB Cullen Gillaspia
QB Mike Glennon
WR Kenny Golladay
G Will Hernandez
DT Austin Johnson
WR Collin Johnson
DL Raymond Johnson III
QB Daniel Jones
LS Casey Kreiter
DL Dexter Lawrence
DB Julian Love
G Wes Martin
LB Benardrick McKinney
S Xavier McKinney
TE Chris Myarick
LB Azeez Ojulari
DB Steven Parker
OT Matt Peart
FB Elijhaa Penny
C Billy Price
LB Reggie Ragland
DB J.R. Reed
LB Quincy Roche
TE Kyle Rudolph
DB Logan Ryan
DT Danny Shelton
WR Sterling Shepard
OL Matt Skura
WR Darius Slayton
LB Elerson G. Smith
OT Nate Solder
OT Andrew Thomas
DT Leonard Williams
Tickets for Marvel Super Heroâ„¢ Day
Limited tickets are available for Marvel Super Heroâ„¢ Day on October 24th vs. Panthers
