Headed for more snaps outside

Shepard likely will play most of his snaps outside in 2019, Scott Thompson of SportsNet New York reports.

Analysis: The Giants replaced Odell Beckham with 30-year-old Golden Tate, who primarily works inside and excels after the catch. Shepard is approximately the same size as Tate and also has spent most of his career in the slot, but the 25-year-old appears to be a better fit outside thanks to his superior straight-line speed and leaping ability. While the Giants shouldn't have much trouble creating slot snaps for both players, it makes sense to have Shepard outside in the base alignment. Even with Beckham…read more

Primed for heavy target counts

Shepard is primed for a larger role within the Giants offense after the team traded Odell Beckham (quad) to the Browns on Tuesday, Matt Lombardo of The Newark Star-Ledger reports.

Analysis: Primarily a slot receiver through his first three seasons, Shepard averaged 63.3 catches for 762 yards and 4.7 touchdowns on 98.7 targets over 14.3 games. There was a clear pattern of extra volume whenever Beckham missed time with an injury, but Shepard wasn't consistent in taking advantage of those opportunities. The 25-year-old has sufficient athleticism to handle more snaps outside, and there's a good chance he enters 2019 as New York's No. 1 option at wideout. Of course, the team still has…read more

Par for the course

Shepard finished the season with 66 catches for 872 yards and four touchdowns on 107 targets.

Analysis: Shepard was slightly disappointing given Odell Beckham's (quadriceps) late-season absence and Evan Engram missing time with a knee injury during the middle of the year, but the Eli Manning factor mitigates that. A solid route runner with average size and speed, Shepard should reprise his usual role as the No. 2 wideout behind Beckham in 2019. Better play under center could raise Shepard's fantasy ceiling.

Returns as full participant

Shepard (hip) practiced in full Thursday.

Analysis: The Giants scaled back Shepard's practice reps Wednesday due to a hip issue, but the third-year pro returned to full capacity one day later. Fellow member of the receiving corps Odell Beckham (quadriceps) is trending toward a fourth consecutive absence, leaving Shepard to act as the No. 1 wideout yet again Sunday against the Cowboys. In his first three opportunities, Shepard posted a 10-167-1 line on 22 targets, with most of that production coming Week 16 at Indianapolis (six catches on seven…read more

Dealing with hip issue

Shepard was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice due to a hip issue.

Analysis: Shepard didn't show any sign of injury during Sunday's 28-27 loss to Indianapolis, catching six of seven passes for 113 yards while handling an 89 percent snap share. He may be looking at another week as the Giants' No. 1 wide receiver, as Odell Beckham (quadriceps) didn't take part in Wednesday's session. The Week 17 matchup looks tough on paper, but it won't all that difficult if the Cowboys rest some of their key players for at least a portion of the game.

Nabs six passes in loss

Shepard caught six of seven passes for 113 yards and lost three yards on a carry during Sunday's 28-27 loss to the Colts.

Analysis: With the game tied at seven late in the first quarter, Eli Manning uncorked a 55-yard bomb to Shepard, setting up a Scott Simonson touchdown. With Odell Beckham Jr. (quad) inactive, Shepard snapped a seven-game streak in which he was held under 40 total yards. If New York sits Beckham again, Shepard will get another opportunity to be the No. 1 target against a Dallas defense that held Shepard to 24 yards in Week 2 but likely will be resting plenty of defensive starters for at least a big part…read more

Set for No. 1 duties again

Shepard is expected to serve as the Giants' No. 1 receiver in Sunday's game against the Colts with Odell Beckham (quadriceps) sidelined for the third straight week, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: During the prior two games Beckham missed, Shepard noticed a spike in volume (15 targets) but was wildly inefficient, notching four receptions for 54 yards and a score. While the Colts lack a standout cornerback, they rank near the middle of the pack in terms of yards per attempt allowed (7.4, 14th in NFL), so the matchup isn't a fantastic one for Shepard. Due to the lack of established depth behind him, Shepard should at least rank as no worse than the No. 3 option in the Giants' passing…read more

Wildly inefficient versus Titans

Shepard caught two of nine targets, collecting 37 receiving yards during Sunday's 17-0 loss to Tennessee.

Analysis: Shepard has struggled mightily with efficiency over the past two weeks, hauling in just four of his 15 targets with Odell Beckham Jr. (quadriceps) out of the lineup, compared to a catch rate of 68.4 percent through Week 13. The absence of OBJ has helped bolster Shepard's involvement in the passing game somewhat -- 7.5 targets per game over the past two weeks, 6.3 season average prior -- but that uptick in volume has failed to cultivate fantasy production, as he's gone for single digits in PPR…read more

Will be No. 1 receiver again Sunday

Shepard will serve as the Giants' No. 1 wide receiver Sunday against the Titans in the absence of Odell Beckham (quadriceps), Michael Eisen of the team's official site reports.

Analysis: After Beckham was ruled out Week 14 at Washington, Shepard led Giants wideouts with 43 (of 64) offensive snaps, which was followed by Corey Coleman's 42, Russell Shepard's 26, Benny Fowler's 26 and Jawill Davis' 26. While Shepard hauled in just two of six targets for 17 yards, one of his three looks in the red zone resulted in a touchdown. He'll attempt to do more Sunday against a Tennessee defense that has given up the sixth-most TDs (17) to wide receivers this season.

Catches TD sans Beckham

Shepard caught two of six targets for 17 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 40-16 win over the Redskins.

Analysis: Shepard led his team in targets with Odell Beckham sidelined by a quadriceps injury, but three other Giants finished with more receiving yards. Beckham will likely return against the Titans in Week 15, bumping Shepard back down to the No. 2 wide receiver role in New York.

Increased opportunity

Shepard figures to see more targets after Odell Beckham (quadriceps) was surprisingly ruled out ahead of Sunday's contest against the Redskins.

Analysis: It's been an inconsistent third season for Shepard to date, but the 24-year-old is poised for a major opportunity with the news that Beckham would not be available Sunday. Against a Redskins defense that has allowed the third-most fantasy points to the wide receiver position, Shepard figures to easily exceed 17.5 percent of the team targets -- his current average this season -- and should present a lucrative fantasy option for season-long and daily players alike.

Upgrades to full participation

Shepard (ribs) was a full practice participant Thursday, Dan Duggan of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Shepard missed a portion of the Giants' Week 13 win against the Bears to tend to a rib injury. After undergoing X-rays and a CT scan on the region, he told Art Stapleton of The Bergen Record on Monday that he would have to manage discomfort in his ribs, which explains his limitations in practice Wednesday. With a return in full Thursday, Shepard appears poised to handle his normal workload Sunday at Washington, which has equated to 92.3 percent of the snaps on offense this season (or a shade…read more

Limited to start week

Shepard (ribs) was a limited practice participant Wednesday, Art Stapleton of The Bergen Record reports.

Analysis: The ability to practice in any capacity at the beginning of the week suggests Shepard has a good chance to play Sunday at Washington. He fought through the rib injury during last weekend's win over the Bears, returning to the game after an X-ray didn't reveal any fractures. Shepard has failed to reach 40 yards in five consecutive games, which included a four-catch, 34-yard showing on eight targets against Washington in Week 8.

Dealing with rib pain

Shepard (ribs) received good news from X-rays and a CT scan, but he did say Monday that he's dealing with some pain, Art Stapleton of The Bergen Record reports.

Analysis: Shepard was taken out of Sunday's 30-27 win over Chicago in the second quarter, but he rejoined the contest after halftime and finished with four catches for 28 yards on six targets. The injury might explain why the sure-handed wide receiver was unable to come down with a diving catch attempt in the end zone during the overtime period. Whatever the case, Shepard has now fallen shy of 40 yards in five consecutive games since his 167-yard explosion against the Falcons in Week 7. He'll be a tough…read more

Continues underwhelming production

Shepard brought in four of six targets for 28 yards in the Giants' 30-27 overtime win over the Bears on Sunday.

Analysis: Shepard's receiving yardage total was once again a disappointment, although he was hardly alone among his fellow pass catchers in failing to generate solid numbers Sunday against the tough Bears defense. The second-year wideout has failed to top 40 yards in five straight games, even as he's logged at least six targets in three of those contests. Shepard's underwhelming day was especially disappointing in the light of the fact the Giants were without Evan Engram (hamstring), but he'll look to…read more

Reenters Sunday's contest

Shepard (ribs) returned to Sunday's game versus the Bears, Dan Duggan of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Shepard was seen favoring his side and lower back following a hit near the end of the first half. While he was deemed questionable to return due to a rib injury, he's back in search of his first catch of the contest.

Hurts ribs Sunday

Shepard is questionable to return to Sunday's game against the Bears due to a rib injury, Paul Schwartz of the New York Post reports.

Analysis: According to Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News, Shepard was seen favoring his side and lower back after Bears linebacker Roquan Smith landed on the wide receiver on his only target of the game prior to departing. If Shepard is unable to reenter the contest, the Giants will rely on Odell Beckham, Bennie Fowler and Russell Shepard at wide receiver.

Makes four catches

Shepard caught four of six targets for 37 yards during Sunday's 25-22 loss to the Eagles.

Analysis: Shepard tied for third on the team in targets, but he did little with those looks outside of his long gain of 18 yards. This lackluster effort extends a run of futility which has seen Shepard held under 40 receiving yards in five of his last six games while scoring one touchdown in that span. He should continue to see his share of looks, especially if Evan Engram (hamstring) is forced to miss time, but he'll need to step up his productivity to be a fantasy factor. He'll look to do just that in…read more

Pair of grabs in win

Shepard brought in both of his targets for 22 yards in the Giants' 38-35 win over the Buccaneers on Sunday.

Analysis: Shepard was quiet in the win, posting his second straight two-catch effort. The third-year pro only has 65 combined receiving yards over the last three games, a significant downturn after he'd notched between 75 and 167 yards in four of the five contests prior. Shepard will look to reclaim his normal target share after seeing only five looks over the last pair of games when the Giants face off with the Eagles in a Week 12 divisional showdown.

Quiet game, despite game-winning TD

Shepard caught two of his three targets for nine yards, but one of them was the game-winning touchdown against the 49ers on Monday night. He also had one carry for 27 yards.

Analysis: The Giants are a low-octane offense with Eli Manning under center, and Odell Beckham and Saquon Barkley are the top priorities. Shepard and Evan Engram are next in line, but sometimes there's not enough to go around.

Held in check versus Redskins

Shepard caught four of eight targets for 34 yards during Sunday's 20-13 loss to the Redskins.

Analysis: Shepard saw plenty of targets, but he hauled in just half the passes thrown his way and finished with one of his quietest performances of the season. His long reception went for 14 yards, and he was otherwise held to rather short gains. Perhaps Shepard's quiet outing has to do more with the opponent, but Evan Engram also reemerged as a large part of the passing game and could cut into Shepard's role moving forward. He'll be on bye next week before facing the 49ers in Week 10.

Goes off in losing effort

Shepard caught five of eight targets for 167 yards in Monday night's 23-20 loss to the Falcons.

Analysis: Shepard's career-high yardage mark came thanks to a pair of catches of 50-plus yards. He helped get New York in scoring territory with a 53-yard gain on the team's first drive of the second half, then set up a touchdown with a 58-yard bomb on the Giants' final offensive series. In doing so, Shepard has now topped 75 yards in four of his last five games, bringing his season average to just slightly below that figure per game. With impressive consistency of late, Shepard -- and the Giants'…read more

Only three catches

Shepard caught three of seven targets for 37 yards in Thursday's 34-13 loss to the Eagles.

Analysis: The Giants passing game struggled all game, and Shepard's production suffered as a result. Making matters worse for Shepard, Evan Engram could be back next week, providing another key mouth to feed.

Totals 75 receiving yards versus Panthers

Shepard caught four of seven targets for 75 yards during Sunday's 33-31 loss to the Panthers.

Analysis: Shepard finished second on the team in targets, finishing behind only Odell Beckham Jr. and Saquon Barkley in receiving yardage. He broke off a long gain of 28 yards and could have had a bigger day if not for a couple of misfires from Eli Manning. Shepard is now averaging 6.7 catches to go along with 77.3 receiving yards per game over his last three, and he'll look to continue his recent form Thursday against the Eagles.

Cleared to face Carolina

Shepard (back) doesn't carry a designation on the final injury report for Sunday's game at Carolina, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Shepard had a minor procedure earlier this week to remove a cyst from his lower back, but it didn't stop him from logging a full practice Thursday. With tight end Evan Engram (knee) ruled out for at least one more game, Shepard is the unquestioned No. 3 option in a top-heavy offense led by Saquon Barkley and Odell Beckham. Shepard took advantage of Engram's absence in last week's loss to the Saints, hauling in all 10 of his targets for 77 yards and a score.

Logs full practice

Shepard (lower back) was a full participant at Thursday's practice, Art Stapleton of The Bergen Record reports.

Analysis: Even though Shepard failed to practice Wednesday after requiring a minor procedure earlier the week to remove a cyst from his lower back, coach Pat Shurmur predicted it wouldn't be anything that impacted the wideout's availability for the weekend. Shurmur's comments still appear to hold true a day later, as Shepard returned to the field Thursday and logged every rep in practice to remove any doubt about his status for Sunday's game against the Panthers. After reeling in all of his season-high…read more

Returns to practice Thursday

Shepard (lower back) returned to practice Thursday, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: In the wake of a procedure earlier this week to remove a cyst from his lower back, Shepard didn't take the practice field Wednesday, instead riding a stationary bike during the open part of practice. He was an active participant Thursday, though, as he ramps up his activity level for a Week 5 visit to Carolina. His workload will be confirmed when the Giants release an injury report Thursday afternoon.

Missing practice after minor back procedure

Coach Pat Shurmur said that Shepard would be withheld from practice Wednesday and perhaps Thursday after undergoing a minor procedure to remove a "little cyst" from his lower back, Paul Schwartz of the New York Post reports.

Analysis: It seems Shepard's procedure was mostly cosmetic in nature, so as long as he returns to practice by Friday, his status for Sunday's game at Carolina won't be in much peril. Shepard saw his role expand in the Week 4 loss to New Orleans while tight end Evan Engram (knee) was sidelined, hauling in all of his season-high 10 targets for 77 yards and a touchdown.

Leads team in receiving

Shepard caught all 10 of his targets for 77 yards and a touchdown Sunday against the Saints.

Analysis: Shepard drew the softer cornerback matchup and took advantage, though his longest catch was only 23 yards. With tight end Evan Engram out, the Giants' receiving tree is narrow, and Shepard will continue to have a significant role.

Positioned for more volume

Shepard could see an uptick in targets while Evan Engram recovers from an MCL sprain, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: The Giants will be missing both Engram and No. 3 wide receiver Cody Latimer (knee) when they host the defense-averse Saints on Sunday. Rhett Ellison and Russell Shepard figure to take on most of the vacated snaps, but Sterling Shepard is the more relevant beneficiary in fantasy terms. The third-year wideout went for 6-80-1 on seven targets last week against the Texans, after managing just eight catches for 72 yards on 12 targets through the first two weeks of the season. With Engram out of the…read more

Scores touchdown

Shepard caught six of seven targets for 80 yards and a touchdown against the Texans on Sunday.

Analysis: With Evan Engram (knee) out, Shepard was Eli Manning's clear No. 2 read after Odell Beckham. While Shepard is not as explosive as Beckham, he's a reliable second wideout for Manning and could see a bigger target share if Engram misses more time.

Catches three passes

Shepard caught three of five targets for 24 yards Sunday against the Cowboys.

Analysis: The Giants offense struggled all game, and Shepard never got going. He's still a key cog in the team's offensive system, Sunday night's game notwithstanding.

Full practice Thursday

Shepard (back) practiced in full Thursday.

Analysis: Prior to the session, Shepard expressed optimism he'd be a full participant, per Art Stapleton of The Bergen Record. Shepard proceeded to do just that, clearing up any question about the back injury that limited him at Wednesday's practice. He'll now prepare in earnest for Sunday's road matchup against the Cowboys, who had the 11th-ranked pass defense a season ago.

Expects to practice fully Thursday

Shepard (back) said he anticipates being a full participant in Thursday's practice, Art Stapleton of The Bergen Record reports.

Analysis: Shepard came out of the Giants' season-opening loss to the Jaguars with the back injury, which resulted in his reps being restricted in the team's first practice of Week 2. The wideout indicated that he feels better a day after the limited workload, so he should take all the snaps with the Giants' first-team offense during Thursday's session. Shepard appears in little danger of missing Sunday's game in Dallas.

Tending to back injury

Shepard was limited in practice Wednesday due to a back injury.

Analysis: Shepard's presence on the Giants' initial Week 2 injury report was forecast when he appeared to be a non-participant during the portion of practice open to the media, according to Ryan Dunleavy of NJ.com. In the end, Shepard was able to fit in enough reps to draw a limited tag Wednesday. After a sophomore season in which he missed five games, Shepard's status will be one to watch, given his standing as the clear No. 2 receiver behind Odell Beckham.

Catches five passes

Shepard caught five of seven targets for 48 yards Sunday against the Jaguars.

Analysis: Odell Beckham saw 15 targets, but Shepard was the next most involved pass catcher on the team, something that's likely to be the case often this year. Shepard draws a considerably easier matchup Week 2 against the Cowboys.

Notches seven catches

Shepard hauled in all seven targets for 78 yards during Friday's preseason game versus the Jets.

Analysis: In the absence of Odell Beckham, Shepard was looked at early and often by Eli Manning in what amounted to a dress rehearsal for the Giants. Among the looks, three of them went for greater than 10 yards (13, 20 and 30) while three others were negligible (three, two and one yards). Shepard's workload will scale back slightly once Beckham is back in the fold, but this performance puts his preseason line at a healthy 10 catches (on 11 targets) for 117 yards and no touchdowns.

Giants quarterback Eli Manning expects Shepard to have a big season, Matt Lombardo of NJ.com reports. "I thought Sterling had a great camp during the spring," said Manning. "He's understanding the coverages, understanding the route combinations, he understands zone and man, and how to make little moves to get open against different techniques. I think he's primed for a big year. And I've been really impressed by his work ethic."

Analysis: Shepard averaged 8.2 targets and 72.2 receiving yards in his 10 healthy appearances last season, with an ankle injury, neck injury and migraines causing him to miss five full games and the majority of a sixth. While unlikely to match that volume if Odell Beckham (ankle), Saquon Barkley and Evan Engram all stay healthy, the third-year wideout won't need a huge workload to be a useful fantasy option if he can repeat last year's impressive efficiency marks -- 70.2 percent catch rate, 8.7 yards per…read more

Shepard (neck) looked healthy for Eli Manning's passing camp at Duke University, dunking a basketball with ease between workouts, Pat Leonard of the Daily News reports.

Analysis: Shepard sat out Week 17 last season with a neck injury, but there hasn't been anything to suggest the issue will impact his preparation for the upcoming campaign. He'll likely be present Monday when the Giants begin their offseason workout program, whereas fellow wideout Odell Beckham (ankle) isn't expected to attend. The 2016 second-round pick had only two touchdowns in 11 games last season, but he did display significant improvement from his rookie year in terms of catch rate (70.2 percent),…read more

Ruled out

Shepard (neck) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Redskins, Art Stapleton of The Bergen Record reports.

Analysis: Shepard didn't practice all week and never seemed especially likely to play. Injuries to Odell Beckham (ankle) and Brandon Marshall (ankle) left the 2016 second-round pick with an opportunity to front the Giants' receiving corps, but his own injury issues limited Shepard to 11 appearances. Shepard finishes with an efficient stat line of 59 catches for 731 yards and two touchdowns on 84 targets -- good for a 8.7 YPT and 70 percent catch rate -- albeit with 57 percent of his yardage occurring in…read more

Not practicing Friday

Shepard (neck) did not take part in Friday's practice, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Shepard has not practiced at all this week as a result of the neck injury he suffered in Week 16, so his chances of playing in Week 17 are not good. The Giants will reveal Shepard's official status for their regular-season finale when Friday's practice comes to a close.

No practice Thursday

Shepard (neck) didn't participate in practice Thursday.

Analysis: Shepard was contained to an elliptical bike for the second straight session, which wasn't nearly enough activity to warrant an elevation to limited participant. If he achieves such standing Friday, at the very least, he'll up his odds to suit up Sunday versus the Redskins.

Does elliptical work Thursday

Shepard (neck) didn't take part in team drills during the media-access portion of Thursday's practice and was instead working out on a bike, Dan Duggan of NJ.com reports.

Analysis: Shepard did the same activity during Wednesday's practice and was listed as a non-participant, so it looks like he'll be in line for the same designation again Thursday. Back-to-back absences to begin the practice week don't portend well for Shepard's availability for the season finale against the Redskins, but the wideout's odds of suiting up Sunday would improve if he's able to put forth a limited or full showing at Friday's session.

Not taking part in practice

Shepard (neck) took part in stretching and worked out on a stationary bike Wednesday, but wasn't taking part in drills during the portion of practice made available to the media, Dan Duggan of NJ.com reports.

Analysis: It's thus expected that Shepard will be listed as a non-participant in the Giants' first practice of the week, which doesn't inspire much confidence about his availability for the season finale Sunday against the Redskins. Shepard was removed from the 23-0 loss to the Cardinals in Week 16 with the injury and has also been hampered by a sprained ankle, a hamstring issue and an illness this season, so it wouldn't be surprising if the 2-13 Giants decided to hold their top wide receiver out in the…read more

Shepard suffered a neck injury in Sunday's loss to Arizona, ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Shepard totaled five receptions for 45 yards on eight targets before leaving the game. There's no indication at this point that the neck issue is of any significant concern, but with a meaningless Week 17 game ahead, Shepard is the sort of player who might get scratched if the ailment is even a slight worry at that point. His practice activity is worth monitoring this coming week.

Shepard (hamstring) reeled in 11 of 16 passes for 139 yards and a touchdown during Sunday's 34-29 loss to Philadelphia.

Analysis: Shepard did most of his damage early in the second quarter when he gave the Giants a two-score lead after plucking a short crosser from Eli Manning and turning upfield for a 67-yard score. This was supposed to be Shepard's season with early injuries to Odell Beckham and Brandon Marshall, but the second-year speedster has dealt with injuries of his own. Now that he's apparently up and healthy, look for the Giants to try to get him more work to close the 2017 season. Though he's run hot and cold,…read more

Cleared to play

Shepard (hamstring) doesn't carry a designation on the Giants' final injury report for Sunday's game against the Eagles.

Analysis: Shepard played through the same injury in last week's 30-10 loss to the Cowboys, catching two of three targets for 16 yards while playing a season-high 77 snaps. The workload suggests his hamstring is close to full strength, but the Giants nonetheless listed him as a limited practice participant Wednesday and Thursday. With Roger Lewis (hamstring) questionable in Week 15 and the Giants likely to be playing from behind against the 11-2 Eagles, Shepard is well positioned for a major boost from…read more

Shepard was limited in practice Thursday due to a hamstring injury, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: A true game-time decision this past Sunday with the same concern, Shepard was given the all-clear but didn't have much of an impact on the outcome, reeling in two of three passes for 16 yards and losing nine yards on his only carry. He proceeded to be listed as a full participant on Wednesday's injury report, so the downgrade Thursday is somewhat worrisome. While the reduced workload may be maintenance-related, a setback of sorts could also be to blame. Consequently, Shepard's status bears…read more

Shepard caught two of three targets for 16 yards during Sunday's 30-10 loss to the Cowboys.

Analysis: Shepard could hardly shake loose on the day, finishing tied for seventh on the team in targets while posting the lowest yardage total in any game he's completed this season. He caught three passes for 56 yards with Geno Smith at the helm last week, fueling a positive outlook for Eli Manning's return in a favorable matchup, but he was unable to measure up. Shepard figures to be more involved next week against the Eagles, but he remains far from a sure bet to produce given the struggles of the…read more

Suiting up Sunday vs. Cowboys

Shepard (hamstring) is active for Sunday's game against the Cowboys.

Analysis: There was some uncertainty regarding Shepard's status heading into the Week 14 matchup after the hamstring issue limited him in practices Thursday and Friday, but after testing things out in pregame warmups, the wideout ultimately gained clearance to suit up. Though he may not be 100 percent healthy, Shepard should rank as the clear-cut top wideout for the Giants and stands to benefit from playing with quarterback Eli Manning -- who was benched in favor of Geno Smith during last week's loss to…read more

Status still uncertain for Sunday

Though Shepard (hamstring) is officially listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Cowboys, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports that the wideout told him he was running at full speed this week and didn't experience any issues with his hamstring during Friday's practice.

Analysis: Raanan thus expects Shepard, who has missed two games due to an ankle sprain and two games due to migraines this season, to suit up for Week 14. While Raanan's report offers encouragement about Shepard's status, it contradicts Ian Rapoport of NFL Network's report, which suggests the wideout is unlikely to play. Fortunately for Sterling's fantasy owners, the Giants and Cowboys will play in the early wave of games Sunday, so clarity on his status should become available 90 minutes prior to the 1…read more

Appears unlikely to play

Shepard (hamstring), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Cowboys, appears unlikely to play in the contest, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Shepard likely won't be officially ruled in or out for the contest until after warming up in front of the training staff Sunday, but the Giants apparently aren't optimistic about the wideout's chances of suiting up. The news comes as a bit of a surprise given that Shepard was able to put in limited practices Thursday and Friday, but the 2-10 Giants don't have much incentive to run out a core player at less than full strength. Shepard's likely absence locks in tight end Evan Engram as the top…read more

Questionable for Week 14

Shepard (hamstring) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Cowboys.

Analysis: Practicing both Thursday and Friday, Shepard appears poised to play through a hamstring issue. If active Week 14, he'll serve as a top option for quarterback Eli Manning versus a Dallas defense that has allowed two touchdowns to wideouts in each of the last three games.

Practicing again Friday

Shepard (hamstring) took part in Friday's practice, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: It won't be clear until practice concludes how much work Shepard was able to get in, but he was on the field for the second straight day after sitting out Wednesday, which bodes well for his chances of playing in Week 14 against the Cowboys. The Giants will release an official update on Shepard's status at some point Friday.

Shepard (hamstring) practiced in a limited capacity Thursday, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Following a two-game absence due to migraines, Shepard picked up all but one of the Giants' 62 offensive snaps Week 13 in Oakland. The swap of Eli Manning for Geno Smith under center didn't have a significant impact on Shepard's stat line -- three catches (on six targets) for 56 yards -- which was fueled primarily by a 47-yard hookup. In the midst of a coaching change, the team has turned back to Manning, who helped Shepard put up two 100-yard outings and one touchdown in seven previous…read more

Shepard (hamstring) was on the field for the start of the Giants' practice Thursday, Dan Duggan of NJ.com reports.

Analysis: The Giants will provide an update on the extent of Shepard's practice participation once the session concludes, but even if he ends up going down as a limited participant Thursday, it would put him on the right track to suit up Sunday against the Cowboys. Shepard returned from a two-game absence due to a bout with migraines to play 61 snaps in the Giants' Week 13 loss to the Raiders, reeling in three of six targets for 56 yards. His fantasy prospects should slightly improve with Eli Manning set…read more

Dealing with hamstring injury

Shepard isn't practicing Wednesday due to a hamstring injury, Dan Graziano of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Shepard's status will be monitored as the week rolls along, but assuming the hamstring issue is nothing major, the wideout's fantasy prospects for the Week 14 matchup with the Cowboys will be bolstered by the reinstatement of Eli Manning as the Giants' starting quarterback. The last time the duo was on the field together in a Week 10 loss to the 49ers, Shepard hauled in 11 of 13 targets for 142 yards.

Shepard caught three of six pass attempts for 56 yards in Sunday's 24-17 loss to the Raiders.

Analysis: Despite having missed the last two weeks due to migraines and a new man under center, Shepard was third on the team in targets. Though he had only managed nine yards on two catches until the fourth quarter, he salvaged his fantasy day by connecting with Geno Smith on a 47-yarder. Assuming his symptoms don't return, the former Sooner has a favorable matchup Week 14 versus Dallas.

Says he's healthy

Shepard (illness) said he's made a full recovery from the unusually strong bout of migraines that caused him to miss the past two games, Ralph Vacchiano of SportsNet New York reports.

Analysis: Shepard has suffered from migraines since childhood, but he suggested they've been less common in recent years. This probably won't be an issue for Shepard to the same extent it was for Percy Harvin, whose chronic migraines caused a slew of absences throughout his college and professional careers. Shepard previously had never missed a game due to migraines, and he sports an encouraging injury record on the whole. He returned to practice as a full participant Wednesday and should be fine for…read more

Full practice Wednesday

Shepard (illness) practiced in full Wednesday, Art Stapleton of The Bergen Record reports.

Analysis: Notably absent the past two games due to a migraine, Shepard's ability to handle every rep Wednesday forecasts a return to action Sunday in Oakland. When Shepard does return, he'll be working with a different signal caller due to Eli Manning's demotion to the backup role. With Geno Smith now under center and rookie Davis Webb expected to get an opportunity to direct the offense at some point over the final five games, Shepard's potential from week to week takes a significant hit.

Officially out against Redskins

Shepard (illness) has officially been ruled out for the Giants' Thanksgiving game against the Redskins.

Analysis: Shepard practiced in a limited fashion Monday, which was cause for optimism, but was unable to participate the rest of the week. Thus, his absence for Thursday's game is unsurprising. It will mark his second consecutive game missed due to migraines. Wide receivers Roger Lewis, Tavarres King and Travis Rudolph figure to see increased targets as a result.

Unlikely to play Thursday

Shepard (illness) isn't expected to play Thursday at Washington, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Shepard was tabbed with a "limited" designation on Monday's estimated injury report, but the positive start was followed by no activity at Tuesday's light practice and a DNP on Wednesday. With migraines still in tow, he's seemingly slated for a second consecutive absence. In such a scenario, wide receivers Roger Lewis, Tavarres King and Travis Rudolph should all have ample target counts by game's end.

Questionable for Thursday

Shepard (illness) is listed as questionable for Thursday's game at Washington, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: In preparation for this contest, the Giants had just one light practice on the docket Tuesday, when Shepard failed to participate due to an ongoing migraine. The malady emerged lat Saturday, kept him on the sideline Sunday against the Chiefs and is threatening to force another absence. With 10 days between the Giants' outings in Weeks 12 and 13, it wouldn't surprise if Shepard is held out to help him put the headaches in the rear-view mirror. If that happens, rookie tight end Evan Engram…read more

Trending toward absence Thursday

Shepard (illness) doesn't appear likely to suit up Thursday against the Redskins, Paul Schwartz of the New York Post reports. "Sterling is not feeling well," Giants head coach Ben McAdoo said Tuesday. "We kept him in the training room [during practice] and the [Giants medical staff is] taking a look at him. They're looking at all the possibilities."

Analysis: The Giants will offer an official injury designation for Shepard following their final practice of the week Wednesday, but the wideout's absence from what ended up being a light practice Tuesday doesn't offer much encouragement that he'll be able to recover from his migraine in time to play on a short week. Unless Shepard's condition dramatically turns a corner Wednesday, the Giants appear set to proceed with Roger Lewis and Tavarres King as their top wideouts for the second straight week,…read more

Listed as non-participant in practice

The Giants officially listed Shepard as a non-participant in Tuesday's practice, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: According to Ralph Vacchiano of SportsNet New York, Giants head coach Ben McAdoo relayed that Shepard, who sat out Sunday's win over the Chiefs while battling a migraine, is still "not feeling well," a discouraging sign as the Thanksgiving Day matchup with the Redskins approaches. Trainers are set to reevaluate Shepard on Tuesday to determine the possible reasons behind his migraines, but the team won't make an official ruling on his status for Thursday's game until after Wednesday's practice.…read more

Not at practice Tuesday

Shepard (illness) wasn't present for the portion of Tuesday's practice that was open to the media, Dan Duggan of NJ.com reports.

Analysis: With Shepard absent, it's likely that the wideout will be listed as a non-participant in Tuesday's practice after being considered limited Monday. With the Giants on a short week, Shepard's status for Thursday's game against the Redskins remains in peril, but his participation in the team's final practice Wednesday should provide more insight into his recovery from a migraine.

Listed as limited participant

Shepard (illness) was listed as a limited participant on Monday's injury report, Art Stapleton of The Bergen Record reports.

Analysis: The Giants didn't actually hold a practice, but they're guessing that Shepard would've participated in some capacity if they had done so. He was held out of Sunday's 12-9 win over the Chiefs due to migraines that cropped up Saturday. It won't be a surprise if he's back for Thursday's game against Washington, but the situation likely will need to be monitored up until inactive lists are released approximately 90 minutes prior to the 8:30 p.m. ET kickoff on Thanksgiving.

Inactive in Week 11

Shepard (illness) is inactive for Sunday's Week 11 tilt against the Chiefs.

Analysis: As expected, Shepard's migraines were too much for the second-year receiver to overcome, leaving the Giants' receiving corps particularly short-handed. Notably, New York was able to pull off a surprising victory against the Broncos in Denver back in Week 6 when they were also missing Shepard -- along with Odell Beckham, Jr. and Brandon Marshall -- with injuries and sported the duo of Roger Lewis and Tavarres King as their top two wideouts. The pair of young pass catchers should once see a bump…read more

Reportedly unlikely to play

Shepard is unlikely to play Sunday against Kansas City due to an illness, but he will be evaluated during pregame warmups, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Shepard was a full participant in practice all week, but was added to the injury report Saturday after coming down with the illness. Roger Lewis and Tavarres King would presumably benefit in targets should Shepard ultimately sit out, while Evan Engram could see even more looks at tight end.

Added to injury report

Shepard has been added to the Giants' injury report for Sunday's game against the Chiefs due to an illness.

Analysis: Shepard was a full participant at practice throughout the week, so the illness he is suffering from must have just came on. Due to a plethora of injures at wide receiver this season Shepard has emerged as the Giants' No. 1 threat at the position. He hauled in a season high 11 receptions for 142-yards last week against the 49ers. Roger Lewis and Tavarres King would presumably benefit in targets should Shepard ultimately sit out, while Evan Engram could see even more looks at tight end.

Shepard caught 11 of 13 targets for 142 yards during Sunday's 31-21 loss to the 49ers.

Analysis: Shepard was the most heavily targeted Giant by a comfortable margin while leading the team in catches and posting a new career high in receiving yardage. He returned from a three-week absence last week and produced at an acceptable level, but he doubled his output in this favorable matchup and seems to be embracing his new role as the team's top wideout. Shepard faces a significant opportunity to shine over the second half of the season and will look to exploit a beatable Chiefs defense in Week…read more

Shepard caught five of nine targets for 70 yards in Sunday's 51-17 loss to the Rams.

Analysis: Shepard returned after a three-week absence to lead the team in receptions while tying for first in receiving yards. Injuries have severely depleted the receiving corps, so the second-year pro will see a significant opportunity to serve as the team's top wideout moving forward. Shepard's fantasy value is trending upward at the moment and should continue to do so next week in a more favorable matchup against the 49ers.

Clears final hurdle for return

Shepard (ankle) was a full practice participant Thursday, Art Stapleton of The Bergen Record reports.

Analysis: The development backs up Shepard's assessment from Wednesday, when he told Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com, "I'm straight this time." With his health not in question, Shepard is slated to make his first appearance since Week 5. In a receiving corps sans Odell Beckham (ankle) and Brandon Marshall (ankle), Shepard will be the No. 1 wideout. However, the emergence of rookie tight end Evan Engram may make Shepard the second option in the Giants' passing attack.

Expects to play Sunday

Shepard (ankle) indicated that he fully expects to suit up Sunday against the Rams, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Shepard was only a limited participant during the Giants' first practice of the week Wednesday, but it appears he's in line to put in a full session by Thursday or Friday, which would just about remove any doubt about his availability for Week 9. Now more than three weeks removed from the left ankle sprain he suffered Oct. 8 against the Chargers, Shepard will find himself atop the receiver depth chart after Odell Beckham (ankle) and Brandon Marshall (ankle) sustained season-ending injuries in…read more