Here is some official information from the New York Giants on the decision to place Kenny Phillips on Injured Reserve.
Phillips has seldom practiced in recent weeks and received constant treatment. But an examination yesterday by team doctors and an MRI revealed that the condition (patella femoral arthritis) in Phillips’ left knee has worsened. A final determination has not yet been made on how to treat Phillips’ condition.
"I really feel for Kenny because he had worked so hard during the offseason to prepare himself for the ‘09 season," general manager Jerry Reese said. "He had a great camp and was just beginning to come into his own and showed flashes of being one of the premier safeties in the NFL. We expect him to recover from this setback and come back stronger than ever. This league is about making adjustments and we will do that."
"The most important thing for us right now is to realize it’s an emotional time for Kenny Phillips," said coach Tom Coughlin. "He had an excellent training camp. He played the deep ball, really, unlike anybody we’ve had around here. He has two interceptions with two outstanding plays the other night, he leads the team in tackles. His presence is felt in really every category on special teams and defense. He was quietly very strong back in the secondary. We were very excited about what we thought could be a Pro Bowl year for our free safety.
"Unfortunately, it’s a difficult time for all of us and for Kenny. Our concerns are about Kenny from an emotional standpoint, because this morning he looked like he’d lost his best friend. He’s really down. But it’s something the doctors felt was needed to be corrected right now, so what’s in the best interest of the player is being done. I’m sure he’ll rehab and be back with us in the spring."
I worked hard this offseason and I felt like this was going to be a big year not only for me, but for the Giants," Phillips said. "I started the season off pretty well with a few tackles, interceptions and for it to just get snatched away from me like this is real tough."
Check Giants.com for the full release.