Sterling Shepard return: Giants’ wide receiver officially back to practice

The New York Giants on Tuesday officially designated wide receiver Sterling Shepard to return from injured reserve, starting the 21-day clock the team has to decide whether or not to officially return him to the 53-man roster.

Shepard has been out since suffering a turf toe injury midway through the Week 2 game against the Chicago Bears. Shepard must be added to the roster at some point during the 21-day window or he remains on IR for the entire season.

This move does not mean that Shepard will play Thursday night against the Philadelphia Eagles. It does mean there is now officially a chance that could happen.

Tuesday will be Shepard’s first practice since suffering the turf toe injury.

The Giants could use the help at wide receiver. C.J. Board won’t play after suffering a concussion on Sunday. Darius Slayton is playing, but obviously dealing with a left foot injury. The only fully healthy receivers on the active roster are Golden Tate and undrafted rookie Austin Mack, who played his first NFL game on Sunday.

Full Tuesday injury report

Did not practice

WR C.J. Board (concussion)
DB Adrian Colbert (shoulder)
LB Tae Crowder (hamstring)

Limited participation

DB Darnay Holmes (neck)
WR Darius Slayton (foot)

Full participation

RB Dion Lewis (hand)