Jason Pierre-Paul Reportedly Has Finger Amputated After Fireworks Accident

New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul reportedly had his right index finger removed on Wednesday as a consequence of injuries he suffered during a Fourth of July fireworks accident.

ESPN's Adam Schefter provided the medical document to show the extent of Pierre-Paul's problems but also included a silver lining about Pierre-Paul's NFL future.     

Jason Cole of Bleacher Report added, per a source, Pierre-Paul also "has a fracture in his right thumb and may have other fractures to his remaining fingers and hand after a fireworks accident on Saturday night."

Cole also reported there could be ramifications for the release of Pierre-Paul's medical chart:

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Pierre-Paul is expected to file a lawsuit against Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami for leaking his medical chart to ESPN, the source said. The network posted Pierre-Paul's medical chart on the Internet. The release of such information without the patient's approval is a violation of federal law.

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Mike Garafolo of Fox Sports reported Wednesday that Pierre-Paul rejected the Giants when they tried to visit him in the hospital and refused their medical assistance as well.

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport provided the potential rationale for Pierre-Paul's decision to amputate the finger:

Pierre-Paul is a tremendously talented pass-rusher who was given the franchise tag earlier this offseason but hasn't signed his tender. Not only could his offer be retracted, but now Pierre-Paul's effectiveness on the gridiron is somewhat in question.

On the bright side, Pierre-Paul is a rare blend of size and athleticism from a pure height (6'5"), weight (278 lbs) and explosiveness standpoint. He also came on strong to close last season with 12.5 sacks—a higher total than he managed in the previous two years combined.

This Independence Day mishap may not cost Pierre-Paul his career, but it could affect his performance. He should have plenty of motivation to prove he can still play following this blunder.