The New York Giants have released some details regarding Mathias Kiwanuka's bulging cervical disc.

Apparently, Kiwanuka complained about a stiff neck following Thursday's practice, and was sent for an MRI. After today's practice, in which he avoided contact with the head and neck, he went to the Hospital For Special Surgery in New York for a CAT scan.

A herniated cervical disc, which is worse than a bulging one, ended Antonio Pierce's career.

"It's disappointing," said Kiwanuka. "It just feels like a stiff neck. The pain is not intolerable but I want to make sure that I will be okay down the line. I have full trust in the medical staff and the trainers at the Giants. I'm going to do everything that is asked of me so when I'm cleared I'll be back and ready to go."

The Giants will be strapped for defensive linemen Sunday night against the Chicago Bears. Defensive end Osi Umenyiora is questionable with swelling in his right knee and defensive tackle Rocky Bernard has missed time this week with a bad back.

That likely means much for duty for first-round pick Jason Pierre-Paul and reserve end Dave Tollefson. It might also mean the first action of the season for second-round pick Linval Joseph.