Giants injury news, 9/27: Olivier Vernon practices for second straight day

Olivier Vernon participated in a second straight practice for the New York Giants on Thursday, leading to the possibility that he could make his season debut Sunday against the New Orleans Saints.

“It’s progress, so that’s a good sign,” Vernon said before Thursday’s practice.

Vernon, the Giants best pass rusher, has yet to play because of a high ankle sprain suffered during a preseason practice. Coach Pat Shurmur said Thursday that Vernon looked “better” during Wednesday’s practice than he had a week ago.

“Again we’re hopeful (he will play),” Shurmur said. “We’ll see.”

Vernon stretched and did some individual work.

“You’re talking about a very special player playing on the edge,” defensive coordinator James Bettcher said of Vernon. “We’d love to have him and when we do get him back whether that’s this week or in the future we’ll be excited to have him back.”

Cornerback Ali Apple (groin) stretched, but once again did no work beyond that.

Defensive tackle Damon Harrison, wide receiver Cody Latimer and running back Jonathan Stewart were all either riding bikes or working with trainers at the beginning of practice.

“It’s super-important that we have all of our best players on the field,” Shurmur said.

The absence of Harrison, the massive run-stopping nose tackle, might raise alarm bells. Shurmur, though, doesn’t sound concerned.

“I wouldn’t worry about Snacks,” Shurmur said.

Could Harrison play without practicing?

“I think he’s one of those guys, he’s veteran enough where he could possibly get that done,” the coach said.