Giants’ Tae Crowder designated to return from injured reserve

The New York Giants have designated Tae Crowder to return from injured reserve, starting the 21-day period they have to activate the rookie linebacker. Crowder has missed the last three games with a hamstring injury.

Crowder had started in Weeks 5 and 6 at inside linebacker next to Blake Martinez before being injured. He had the game-winning touchdown against Washington in Week 6, with a scoop and score fumble recovery.

Without Crowder, Devante Downs and David Mayo have seen increased playing time.

Crowder returning to practice on Wednesday gives him a chance to be active Sunday in a critical game against the Philadelphia Eagles.

The Giants are also getting starting guard Will Hernandez back after he missed two games while on the Reserve/COVID-19 list.

No word at this point as to whether or not the Giants will begin the 21-day clock on rookie safety Xavier McKinney, who has been out all season with a fractured, or linebacker Oshane Ximines (shoulder).