Shaun Rogers has progressed from being out for the season to possibly suiting up, but he isn't ready to take the next big step, which is to say he certainly will play for the 2012 Giants.

But the 12-year NFL veteran and first-year Giant hopes he can return to the trenches.

"That's most definitely the point," Rogers said today. "Trying to get back out there as soon as possible, to be able to be effective by whatever means they need me to be effective."

Rogers, a three-time Pro Bowler who was signed as a free agent on April 26, played in the Giants' preseason opener at Jacksonville on Aug. 10. Four days later, the team announced Rogers had a blood clot in his leg, a condition Tom Coughlin said would sideline the big defensive tackle for the season.

But Rogers has improved, apparently after switching medication. The Giants and he now hold out hope that he will play this season, but are uncertain that will be the case.

"We did a little bit more due diligence, and got a little bit better prognosis," Rogers said. "Hopefully, there is some room left in there to get out there. We're still in the process of making that decision."

Rogers declined to reveal if the swelling in his leg has been reduced, if he might try a different drug or what his treatment will be going forward. He did say his condition was never life-threatening.

The issue now is when Rogers can play after going through the prescribed treatment for the clot that put him on the sideline.

"That's really the issue, I guess," said Rogers.

If it's resolved satisfactorily, the Giants just might get the services of Rogers this year after all.

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