New York Giants’ wide receiver Steve Smith will miss Sunday’s game against the Dallas Cowboys — and possibly others — with a partially torn pectoral muscle. Giants’ coach Tom Coughin confirmed that news Friday afternoon.
“He’s going to be out of the game and it’s going to be one of those deals hopefully week to week and we’ll see,” Coughlin said. “I’m not sure exactly how long.”
Smith went to the Pro Bowl a year ago when he set a franchise record with 107 receptions. This season he has 47 catches through eight games, second on the team behind Hakeem Nicks (51).
Coughlin expects second-year receiver Ramses Barden and rookie Duke Calhoun to get additional playing time in Smith’s absence. Mario Manningham will start opposite Nicks.
Speaking Thursday, Giants’ offensive coordinator Kevin Gilbride admitted the loss of Smith would hurt the high-flying Giants’ offense.
“He’s the most polished receiver we have. He’s a guy who has really earned the respect of the defense to such a point that so many of the things they do are designed to stop him,” Gilbride said. “It’s a huge loss, but we’ll make do.”
Barden has just two catches on the season, while Calhoun has not caught a pass. Reserve tight end/H-Back Travis Beckum could also see additional time as a slot receiver, a place where Smith excels. He has eight catches for the season.