The New York Giants' worst fears when it comes to wide receiver Steve Smith have been confirmed. The Pro Bowl wide receiver will be lost to the Giants for the remainder of the season after suffering what is being called an articular cartilage injury to his left knee that will require surgery.
Smith had missed four games with a pectoral injury before returning Monday night. He had caught 48 passes for 529 and three touchdowns in nine games this season. Last season Smith became the first Giant to catch at least 100 passes in a season, grabbing 107 for 1,220 yards and seven touchdowns.
Five Giants wide receivers have been placed on IR this season. Smith, Domenik Hixon, Victor Cruz, Ramses Barden and Sinorice Moss (who was eventually waived).
Another injured Giants wide receiver, Mario Manningham, still has a chance of playing Sunday against the Eagles. If Manningham can't play, No. 1 receiver Hakeem Nicks will be the only wide receiver still playing from the Giants original roster.
Derek Hagan, waived in training camp and re-signed a few weeks ago, has emerged as a key contributor with 13 catches in four games. Newly-acquired Michael Clayton and Devin Thomas may also need to take expanded roles within the offense.