Giants’ roster moves: FB Shane Smith promoted, TE Matt LaCosse waived

The New York Giants made a roster move on Saturday, returning fullback Shane Smith to the 53-man roster and waiving tight end Matt LaCosse.

Smith, an undrafted free agent rookie, began the season on the Giants’ 53-man roster. After playing only 12 offensive snaps in the first three games, though, he was waived and re-signed to the practice squad.

LaCosse was the Giants’ fourth tight end. The 25-year-old had just one reception, but had been receiving increased playing time in recent weeks. He played a season-high 17 snaps Week 8 against the Seattle Seahawks.

It remains to be seen if Smith’s presence on the roster means the Giants will revert to running some offensive plays that utilize a fullback. With injuries mounting, though, the Giants have struggled in both punt protection and punt coverage in recent weeks. Those are both areas where they likely hope Smith will help.