Giants designate Kareem Martin for return from IR

The New York Giants have designated edge defender Kareem Martin for return from injured reserve. He could be active as early as Sunday against the Green Bay Packers, though the Giants have a three-week window in which to add him to the 53-man roster.

Martin, in his second season with the Giants, played in only one game this year before going on IR with a knee injury.

This move means that another veteran player who is likely healthy enough to return, wide receiver Russell Shepard, will not be able to do so this season. League rules allow teams to bring back only two players from injured reserve, and the Giants did so with cornerback Sam Beal earlier this season.

Injury notes

In looks like the Giants could be without tight ends Evan Engram (foot) and Rhett Ellison (concussion) for a second straight week. Neither practiced on Wednesday. Also not practicing were Golden Tate (concussion) and Jabrill Peppers (transverse process fracture).

Coach Pat Shurmur said Julian Love and Michael Thomas will fill in for Peppers.