Giants’ roster move: LB Kelvin Sheppard returns to team

Short-handed at linebacker with B.J. Goodson (ankle) and Jonathan Casillas (neck) struggling with injuries, the New York Giants have turned to a familiar face for help. The team announced Tuesday evening that they have re-signed Kelvin Sheppard, the team’s starting middle linebacker a season ago.

The 29-year-old Sheppard played in all 16 games for the Giants a season ago, starting 11. He was generally used on early downs, with Keenan Robinson taking over in likely passing situations. Sheppard had 47 tackles (20 solo) while playing 452 defensive snaps (40.72 percent) for the Giants a season ago.

Sheppard was not re-signed in free agency. He was with the Chicago Bears in the preseason, but did not make the roster. He has been out of work since.

Amongst a flurry of other roster moves, the Giants Tuesday placed linebacker Nigel Harris on IR with a rib injury.