New York Giants linebacker Dyontae Johnson's journey has been tumultuous, marked by injuries and uncertainty ahead of free agency. After an impressive offseason leading to his selection in the final roster, Johnson's 2024 season was severely hindered by an ankle injury that left him on injured reserve for most of the year. Despite the setbacks, he showcased his potential when he returned to the field, notably leading the Giants in tackles during Week 18 against the Philadelphia Eagles.

His performance, although limited, has sparked discussion on whether the Giants should retain him. With his exclusive rights free agency status, keeping Johnson would provide the team with a young, inexpensive option familiar with their defensive schemes. However, there are arguments against his retention, primarily focused on his injury history and the potential to find replacements through the draft or undrafted free agency.

The New York Giants concluded their 2024 season with a disappointing 20-13 defeat against the Philadelphia Eagles, marking their continued struggles in the city since 2013. This loss capped off a dismal campaign for the Giants, who won only one of their last 12 games and finished the season with a 0-6 record against divisional rivals, a first in NFC East history.

Despite the loss, rookie receiver Malik Nabers shone, catching five passes for 64 yards and a touchdown, setting a new franchise record for receptions in a season. Wan'Dale Robinson also had a standout performance with a career-high 10 catches, though he could not lead the team to victory.

Malik Nabers, the New York Giants' rookie receiver, is anticipated to play in the team's crucial Week 17 matchup against the Indianapolis Colts despite being listed as questionable due to a toe injury. After missing practice earlier in the week, Nabers was limited on Friday but indicated that his status would be a game-day decision. Should he take the field, he will be a focal point in the Giants' passing attack as he aims to achieve significant rookie milestones.

Nabers is on the verge of his first 1,000-yard season, needing just 69 yards to reach that mark, which would also mark the 26th occurrence of such a season in Giants history. This achievement comes despite Nabers missing three games this season. Additionally, he holds the record for most receptions by a Giants rookie with 91, surpassing the previous record held by Odell Beckham Jr. and Saquon Barkley. He is also in pursuit of the league's rookie reception record, currently held by Puka Nacua with 105 receptions. Nabers needs nine more catches to tie that record, while also contending with Raiders tight end Brock Bowers, who has 101 receptions.

As Nabers prepares for the game, the Giants will be without several key players, including center John Michael Schmitz, linebacker Micah McFadden, and cornerback Greg Stroman Jr., all declared inactive. Greg Van Roten is expected to step in at center, while Dyontae Johnson, recently activated from IR, may see some action with McFadden out. The only other Giant with an uncertain status is cornerback Dee Williams, who is also dealing with a toe injury.

On the Colts' side, starting quarterback Anthony Richardson has been ruled out, with veteran Joe Flacco slated to start as the team fights to keep their playoff aspirations alive. As the game approaches, both teams are finalizing their inactive lists, and fans are eager to see how Nabers' performance could impact the Giants' season.

New York Giants rookie running back Tyrone Tracy, Jr. has returned to practice on a limited basis after dealing with an ankle injury that sidelined him for two days. He has been cleared to play in the upcoming game against the Indianapolis Colts, as he does not carry an injury designation. In contrast, fellow rookie receiver Malik Nabers, who has been struggling with a toe injury, participated in practice but is listed as questionable for Sunday’s game. Nabers is aiming for his first 1,000-yard season and has indicated that his availability will be determined closer to game time.

Unfortunately, the Giants will be without four other starters who have missed practice this week and have been ruled out for the game. These players include center John Michael Schmitz (ankle), cornerback Greg Stroman (shoulder/shin), defensive back Raheem Layne (knee), and inside linebacker Micah McFadden (neck). Coach Brian Daboll confirmed that guard Greg Van Roten, who appeared on the injury report due to a knee issue, will start at center. Additionally, inside linebacker Dyontae Johnson is expected to see significant playing time, along with Ty Summers. The team is also considering activating guard Austin Schlottmann, who is currently in a 21-day practice window after returning from injured reserve.

The New York Giants face mounting scrutiny over their quarterback decisions as Joe Schoen and Brian Daboll's choices continue to backfire. After releasing Daniel Jones and starting Tommy DeVito, the team suffered a humiliating loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Drew Lock, who was benched, is now set to start despite injuries, highlighting the team's ongoing struggles at the position.

With the Giants on the brink of a franchise-record tenth consecutive loss, the pressure is on Schoen and Daboll to make the right call moving forward. Meanwhile, injuries are plaguing the roster, with key players like Bobby Okereke and Aaron Stinnie sidelined.