Giants' Nick Gates Reportedly to Be Activated for Week 8 After Gruesome Leg Injury

The New York Giants are planning to activate offensive lineman Nick Gates ahead of their Week 8 game against the Seattle Seahawks, according to ESPN's Jordan Raanan.

Gates suffered a fractured fibula and tibia in the second week of the 2021 season. There were initial concerns his career could be over as a result of the injuries.

Per Raanan, the 26-year-old underwent seven surgeries to repair the damage.

Gates progressed toward his return when he was cleared to practice on Oct. 5.

"I feel good," he said at the time. "It's nice to be back out there on the field, it's nice to run around with the guys. It was a good time. It was a good feeling to be back out there. I didn't think I was going to be back out there this fast."

Given the severity of his injury and long layoff, the Giants might give him a gradual transition to live action. His activation will come at an opportune time.

New York ranks 18th in adjusted line yards and 30th in adjusted sack rate through seven weeks, per Football Outsiders. A unit that has already struggled a bit will have to forge ahead without two starters, Evan Neal and Ben Bredeson.

Head coach Brian Daboll confirmed Bredeson is "week-to-week" with a knee problem, while Neal will reportedly be on the shelf for three to four weeks because of an MCL injury.

Gates, who has practiced at the center and guard positions ahead of his comeback, can provided some needed depth.