Gary Brightwell Injury News & Updates

Brightwell signed with Cincinnati's practice squad Wednesday.

Brightwell remains with the Bengals as organizational depth after passing through waivers unclaimed. He or fellow practice squad running back Kendall Milton would presumably be next in line for opportunities should injuries befall any of the three running backs on Cincinnati's 53-man roster.

The Bengals released Brightwell on Tuesday.

Brightwell opted to stay in Cincinnati on a futures contract in January after finishing the 2024 regular season on the team's practice squad. He entered training camp gunning for a depth backfield spot on the Bengals' 53-man roster, but he wasn't able to separate himself from the competition after logging nine carries for 31 yards while adding a nine-yard catch and 93 yards on three kickoff returns. The 2021 sixth-rounder will look to catch on with a team in need of a running back who can also serve on special teams.

The Bengals signed Brightwell to a reserve/future contract Tuesday.

Brightwell began the 2024 regular season on the Browns' active roster, playing in Week 3 and 4 and posting 36 kick return yards while contributing exclusively on special teams. He was cut from Cleveland's active roster Oct. 1, and after two separate stints on the Browns' practice squad, he opted to sign with the Bengals' practice squad Nov. 11. He didn't end up playing for Cincinnati during the regular season, but he will be part of the Bengals' 90-man roster once the league year starts March 12.

Cincinnati signed Brightwell to its practice squad Monday, Jordan Schultz of Fox Sports reports.

Less than two weeks after being cut from the Browns' practice squad, Brightwell has now found another opportunity with their division rival. The Bengals currently have four running backs on their active roster, so it would probably take at least one injury for him to see any game action during the second half of the season.

The Browns cut Brightwell from the practice squad Tuesday.

Brightwell has bounced on and off Cleveland's practice squad with regularity this season. He's also suited up for two games with the team, contributing exclusively on special-teams in both contests. Brightwell may realistically be a candidate to resurface on the practice squad again in the future.

The Browns re-signed Brightwell to the practice squad Tuesday.

Brightwell takes the spot of Sebastian Gutierrez, who Cleveland cut from the practice squad in a corresponding move. A fourth-year pro, Brightwell played a role on special teams for the Browns in Week 3 and Week 4.

The Browns cut Brightwell from the practice squad Tuesday.

Brightwell's departure from the practice squad opens up a spot for wide receiver James Proche. Brightwell was signed to the Browns' active roster Sept. 21 to provide backfield depth behind Jerome Ford and D'Onta Foreman. However, Brightwell was limited to a special teams role in Week 3 and 4, and he was let go from the 53-man roster Oct. 1. The 2021 sixth-round pick will explore his options and attempt to catch on with a team in need of backfield depth and special teams experience.

The Browns signed Brightwell to the practice squad Thursday.

Brightwell cut Brightwell from the active roster Wednesday, but he wasted little time before resurfacing with the team. The special-teams ace could be a candidate for elevation Sunday against the Commanders.

The Browns cut Brightwell from the 53-man roster Tuesday, Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram reports.

Brightwell spent the last two games contributing exclusively on special teams for Cleveland. He returned two kickoffs for 36 yards during the team's 20-16 loss to the Raiders on Sunday. Now, Brightwell will hope to either resurface on the Browns' practice squad or secure a depth role elsewhere in the league.

Brightwell returned two kickoffs for 36 yards in Sunday's 20-16 loss to the Raiders.

Brightwell was active for a second straight game but has not played on offense yet. He was the main kick returner for the Giants in 2022 and could fill that role with the Browns until injured running backs Nick Chubb (knee) or Nyheim Hines (knee) return.

The Browns signed Brightwell from the practice squad to the active roster Saturday, Kelsey Russo of the Browns' official site reports.

With Nick Chubb (knee) and Nyheim Hines (knee) starting the regular season on injured reserve and Pierre Strong (hamstring) ruled out for Sunday's game against the Giants, the Browns have signed Brightwell to the active roster. Brightwell could get some looks on kickoff return Sunday while serving as the No. 3 running back behind Jerome Ford and D'Onta Foreman. Brightwell appeared in seven regular-season games for the Giants in 2023, during which he turned nine carries into 19 yards and added five catches (on seven targets) for 47 yards.

Brightwell signed with the Browns' practice squad Thursday, Chris Easterling of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.

Brightwell spent camp with the Jaguars after losing his spot with the Giants, but he was unable to make the team's final roster. He'll now get a chance to work his way up to Cleveland's 53-man roster, which is currently dealing with multiple injuries at running back.

Brightwell was waived by the Jaguars on Tuesday.

Brightwell had his time with the Giants end due to a hamstring injury in June, but eventually found his way to Jacksonville in early August. However, the Arizona product was unable to force his way up the team's positional depth charts and secure a spot on their final 53-man roster.

The Jaguars signed Brightwell to a contract Saturday.

Brightwell appeared in seven regular-season games with the Giants in 2023, registering 66 yards from scrimmage on 14 touches while playing 39 snaps on offense and 99 on special teams. He sustained a hamstring injury in Week 7 against the Commanders and ended the season on the IR. He reached an injury settlement with the Giants in June, and he'll now compete for a depth running back spot on the Jaguars behind Travis Etienne and Tank Bigsby.

Brightwell (hamstring) visited the Patriots for a tryout Monday, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.

Brightwell reached an injury settlement with the Giants back in June, and he now looks fully recovered from his hamstring injury. The 2021 sixth-round pick could be a fit for New England, given his ability to shore up backfield depth while also contributing on special teams.

Brightwell (hamstring) was waived by the Giants with an injury settlement Monday, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.

The running back is free to search for another opportunity in 2024 now that he's reached the settlement. In 2023 with the Giants, Brightwell carried the ball nine times for 19 yards and caught five passes for 47 yards. The 2021 sixth-round pick's best season came in 2022 when he ran for 141 yards and a score.

Brightwell (hamstring) has reverted to the Giants' injured reserve, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.

Brightwell's 2023 campaign ended on the IR, and this season has now begun the same way. The nature of his hamstring injury is unknown at this time, so it is still possible that both he and the Giants can come to terms on an injury settlement down the road. The running back has tallied 164 yards and one touchdown on the ground across 37 games in his career to go along with 92 yards on 11 receptions for 92 yards.

Brightwell (hamstring) was waived/injured by the Giants on Thursday, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.

Brightwell ended the 2023 season on injured reserve with a hamstring injury and has yet to participate in the offseason program. He has rushed 41 times for 164 yards and a touchdown and has caught 11 passes for 92 yards through 37 games with the Giants. Brightwell will need to make an impact on special teams wherever he lands next.

Brightwell (hamstring) played in seven games during the regular season, rushing nine times for 19 yards and adding five catches on seven targets for 47 yards.

Most of Brightwell's work came on special teams, though he did get four carries in both Week 3 and Week 4 while Saquon Barkley was out with an injury. Brightwell didn't do much with those opportunities, and he had only one carry over his other five contests combined. The third-year pro's campaign came to a halt after suffering an ankle injury that eventually landed him on IR, and though he was designated to return ahead of Week 16, New York didn't end up activating him. The Giants' running-back room is in flux heading into the offseason, with Barkley and veteran Matt Breida set to be free agents. Brightwell, 2023 rookie Eric Gray and Jashaun Corbin are New York's three RBs currently under contract for next year, with Gray the most likely of the three to take on a lead-back role if Barkley doesn't return and the team doesn't add a starting-caliber replacement.

Brightwell (hamstring) practiced in full Thursday, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.

Brightwell was designated to return from IR on Wednesday, and Thursday marked his first full practice with the team since suffering a hamstring injury Week 7 against the Commanders. The 24-year-old could return Monday against the Eagles, but considering the amount of time the Arizona product has missed, the Giants may wait until Week 17 against the Rams to bring Brightwell back into the fold.

Coach Brian Daboll said Wednesday that Brightwell (hamstring) will have his 21-day practice window opened this week, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.

Brightwell has been on IR since Week 7, but he'll be eligible to rejoin his teammates in practice and can officially be added to the active roster within the next 21 days. If all goes well in practice, the 2021 sixth-round draft pick could be available as soon as Monday's game against the Eagles, though his return to the field would have to be preceded by an official move adding Brightwell to the active roster.

The Giants placed Brightwell (hamstring) on injured reserve Saturday, Dan Duggan of The Athletic reports.

Brightwell sustained a hamstring injury in Week 7 against the Commanders. He'll now have to sit out for at least the next four games and will be eligible to return against the Patriots on Nov. 26. Jashaun Corbin and Deon Jackson are set to take on backfield depth roles behind Saquon Barkley and Matt Breida.

Brightwell (hamstring) has been ruled out for Sunday's contest against against the Jets, Ralph Vacchiano of Fox Sports reports.

Brightwell didn't practice at all during Week 8 prep, and he's thus been ruled out for Sunday's matchup. The third-year running back has been used mostly on special teams this season, and he hasn't logged an offensive snap since Week 4. However, with rookie RB Eric Gray moved to IR on Tuesday, the Giants recently signed both Jashaun Corbin and Deon Jackson to serve as depth behind Saquon Barkley and Matt Breida out of the backfield.

Brightwell (hamstring) does not carry an injury designation into Sunday's game versus the Jets, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.

Brightwell is in line to return from a three-game absence in Week 8. With Saquon Barkley and Matt Breida both also healthy headed into Sunday's game, Brightwell figures to settle into a reserve role.

Brightwell (hamstring) did not participate at practice Wednesday, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.

Brightwell was forced out of Sunday's game versus Washington with a hamstring injury, which is now also keeping him out of practice to start the week. Unless he can come back to practice Thursday or Friday, he'll probably have to sit out in Week 8 versus the Jets.

Brightwell (hamstring) will not return to Sunday's game against the Commanders, Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News reports.

Brightwell did not record any stats before exiting, so it's unclear when he sustained the injury. Saquon Barkley and Matt Breida are New York's only remaining running backs on the active roster. Brightwell has nine carries for 19 yards in 2023.

Brightwell (ankle) is active for Sunday's game against Buffalo.

Brightwell came into the weekend questionable with an ankle injury, but he will be able to take the field against Buffalo. Saquon Barkley (ankle) is also active for the contest, so Brightwell is likely to see his already small role on offense further reduced. Brightwell worked exclusively on special teams last week against Miami, and that may be the case again Sunday night.

Brightwell (ankle) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game at Buffalo, Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News reports.

After sitting out of practice Thursday, Brightwell was a limited participant Friday, giving himself at least a chance to play in Week 6. With Saquon Barkley (ankle) also listed as questionable, the Giants go into the weekend with Matt Breida and Eric Gray as their only certainties at running back.

Brightwell (ankle) did not participate at practice Thursday, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.

Brightwell began the week with a limited practice Wednesday, but his absence Thursday puts his availability for Week 6 in doubt. If he can't practice in at least some capacity Friday, he'll probably be forced to sit out Sunday at Buffalo.

Brightwell (ankle) was a limited participant at practice Wednesday, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.

Brightwell was also limited at practice last week before ultimately suiting up to play in Week 5 at Miami, so that he wasn't a full go Wednesday is likely just maintenance related. He'll have two more chances to log a full practice Thursday and Friday before Sunday's game at Buffalo.

Brightwell (ankle) does not carry an injury designation ahead of Sunday's game at the Dolphins, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.

Brightwell was hobbled at practice during the week, but the ankle issue he's dealing with won't be severe enough to keep him out in Week 5. His projected role depends almost squarely on the availability of Saquon Barkley, who is listed as questionable with an ankle injury of his own.

Brightwell (ankle) was a limited participant at practice Thursday, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.

For the second straight day, Brightwell was unable to manage a full practice due to an ankle issue, the details of which still aren't totally clear at this point. With Saquon Barkley still working through an ankle injury of his own, the Giants' injury report Friday will be pivotal in forecasting who will be able to handle carries for them Sunday at Miami.

Brightwell was limited in practice Wednesday due to an ankle injury, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.

It was previously reported Wednesday by Bob Brookover of NJ.com that Brightwell was to be limited at practice Wednesday but without a specified reason. Salomone's report confirms those expectations were correct while also shedding some light on the cause, which is due to an ankle injury. Brightwell has seen his role grow over the last two weeks while Saquon Barkley recovers from a sprained ankle. If Barkley remains out and Brightwell recovers in time, he should see a continuance of that role Sunday against the Dolphins.

Brightwell (undisclosed) will be limited in practice Wednesday, Bob Brookover of NJ.com reports.

It's not clear what the injury Brightwell is dealing with is, but the Arizona product will be unable to participate in full to the start the week. He'll try to ramp up his activity ahead of Sunday's game against Miami on Thursday or Friday.

Brightwell carried four times for nine yards and caught one of two targets for 10 yards in a Week 4 loss to Seattle on Monday.

For the second straight week, Brightwell was the only Giants running back aside from Matt Breida to garner any carries in the absence of Saquon Barkley (ankle), though it was quarterback Daniel Jones who led the team with 66 rushing yards. Brightwell didn't do much with his opportunities on the ground, with his longest rush going for just four yards. Though the 24-year-old has seen more work with Barkley out of action, he's managed just 14 yards on eight carries over the past two weeks while adding 41 yards through the air on three receptions. Barkley has been making progress with his high ankle sprain and has a chance to suit up Week 5 against Miami, but even if he were to sit out again, Brightwell has very little value as a fantasy asset at the moment.

Brightwell rushed four times for five yards and caught two of three targets for 31 yards in Thursday's Week 3 loss to San Francisco.

It was expected that Brightwell would see more snaps with Saquon Barkley out with an ankle injury, though Matt Breida saw the bulk of New York's backfield work. Brightwell ended up logging nine offensive snaps, making a minimal impact on the ground with a long gain of just two yards. He was more effective as a pass catcher, as his pair of receptions went for 18 and 13 yards, respectively. Breida will likely continue to see the majority of snaps at running back for as long as Barkley remains out, but Brightwell appears to be the clear second option while that remains the case -- rookie No. 3 back Eric Gray saw all of his work on special teams Thursday.

Brightwell is expected to get some carries in a backfield led by Matt Breida with Saquon Barkley (ankle) ruled out for Thursday's game against the 49ers, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.

Breida is expected to lead New York's backfield, but Brightwell is next in line for carries, while 2023 fifth-round pick Eric Gray could mix in sporadically as both a runner and a pass catcher. Brightwell has 150 yards and a touchdown on 33 carries since being selected in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft by the Giants.

Brightwell carried one time for five yards and caught both of his targets for six yards in Sunday's blowout loss to the Cowboys.

Brightwell didn't get a touch until midway through the fourth quarter, when the Giants were down 40-0. He logged a five-yard rush on his lone carry and added a pair of meaningless receptions with the clock ticking down for the final two plays of the game. Brightwell ended up on the field for 11of New York's 70 offensive snaps overall, and he could be hard-pressed to see even that much action most weeks as he works behind Saquon Barkley and Matt Breida.

Brightwell (knee) does not carry an injury designation Friday ahead of Sunday's game versus Dallas, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.

Despite having been sidelined since mid-August with a knee issue, Brightwell will be healthy enough to play in Week 1 versus the Cowboys. He probably won't get many touches as long as Saquon Barkley and Matt Breida remain healthy, though.

Brightwell (knee) was a limited participant at practice Thursday ahead of Sunday's game versus Dallas, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.

Brightwell has been sidelined since the middle of August with a knee issue, and his status for the Giants' game in Week 1 is now in true doubt. If he proves unable to play come Sunday, fifth-round rookie Eric Gray would be a likely candidate to replace him as the primary kick returner.

Brightwell (knee) was a limited participant in practice Wednesday.

Brightwell has been sidelined since the middle of August but was able to make the 53-man roster thanks in large part to his experience on special teams as the lead kick returner. Getting in a limited session in practice should improve Brightwell's chances of suiting up Week 1 against the Cowboys on Sunday, Sept. 10.

Brightwell (undisclosed) was not a full participant at practice Thursday, Michael Eisen of the Giants' official site reports.

Brightwell stands to contribute mostly on special teams when healthy, as he currently looks like New York's top kick returner, but he could occasionally spell Saquon Barkley and Matt Breida as a depth option on offense, per John Fennelley of USA Today.

Brightwell (undisclosed) is still not fully healed as of Sunday, Dan Duggan of The Athletic reports.

Brightwell has been sidelined by the injury for over a week, and his inability to get back on the field will likely hamper his chances to make the team's 53-man roster as the No. 3 running back, according to Duggan.

Brightwell is not in uniform for Friday's exhibition matchup with the Panthers due to an undisclosed issue, Charlotte Carroll of The Athletic reports.

Brightwell is competing with Jashaun Corbin, James Robinson and Eric Gray for the team's No. 3 running back role behind Saquon Barkley and Matt Breida. It is unclear what specific issue he is dealing with, but the Giants have one more preseason game left, so he will have more time to make an impression going forward.

Brightwell and rookie Eric Gray figure to compete for the No. 3 running back role behind Saquon Barkley and Matt Breida, Charlotte Carroll of The Athletic reports.

Barkley has yet to sign his franchise tag or work out a contract extension with the organization, but he figures to be a workhorse again during the upcoming campaign. Breida was a good fit as the No. 2 ball-carrier last season and was brought back for 2023 presumably to fill the same role, leaving Brightwell and Gray to compete for the limited snaps that remain. Brightwell averaged a healthy 4.5 yards per carry last year and also worked as the team's lead kickoff returner, but Carroll notes that Gray offers "a needed injection of youth" to the running-back room. Should the rookie impress during camp and preseason action, he could feasibly move ahead of Brightwell on the depth chart.

Brightwell carried the ball 11 times for 60 yards and caught one of three targets for three yards in Sunday's 22-16 loss to the Eagles.

With Saquon Barkley inactive in a relatively meaningless game for the Giants, Brightwell wound up being the team's leading rusher. The 60 yards were also a new career high for the 2021 sixth-round pick, and if somehow the team doesn't re-sign Barkley in the offseason or bring in a high-profile replacement, Brightwell could have a much more significant role in 2023.

Brightwell lost one yard on his only carry and returned one kickoff for 26 yards in a loss to the Vikings on Saturday.

After failing to record any offensive snaps against Washington in Week 15, Brightwell got one snap Saturday, but he lost a yard on a first-down carry in the first quarter. His role as the team's kick returner boosts his importance to New York, but Brightwell shouldn't be expected to be a fantasy producer while lead back Saquon Barkley (63 snaps Saturday) and No. 2 ball carrier Matt Breida (11 snaps) are healthy.

Brightwell did not log any offensive snaps in New York's Week 15 win over the Commanders. He played on 15 special-teams snaps and tallied 21 yards on his lone kickoff return.

With Saquon Barkley limited last week against the Eagles, Brightwell saw a season-high 21 offensive snaps and tallied 41 total yards. However, Barkley was back at full strength Sunday, pushing Brightwell out of the offense entirely. Matt Breida looks to have a secure hold on the minimal backup touches behind Barkley, so Brightwell could be in line for more games like this one during which he works exclusively as a special teamer.

Brightwell gained 23 yards on five carries and secured two of three targets for 18 yards in a loss to Philadelphia in Week 14.

Brightwell didn't log an offensive snap against Washington in Week 13, but he tallied 21 against the Eagles on Sunday. That was partly due to Saquon Barkley's limitations due to a neck injury and partly due to the Giants getting routed in the contest. It was nonetheless revealing that Brightwell logged just two fewer snaps than presumed No. 2 back Matt Breida, and Brightwell was the far more productive player with 41 total yards to Breida's 15. Neither backup ball carrier has fantasy value as long as Barkley is healthy, but if the bell-cow starter is unable to move past his neck injury and is forced to miss time, both Breida and Brightwell would have some intrigue as fantasy pickups.

Brightwell did not log any offensive snaps in Sunday's 20-20 tie with Washington, but he gained 44 yards on two kick returns.

Brightwell entered the weekend with a questionable tag due to an illness. He was ultimately able to play against Washington but did not garner any snaps on offense for the first time since Week 10. Brightwell had seen his most action of the campaign one week earlier, totaling 31 yards on five carries and 18 yards on two catches against Dallas. He's yet to log more than 10 offensive snaps in any game this season, and his value to the Giants is primarily as a kick returner.

Brightwell (illness) is active Sunday against the Commanders.

Brightwell closed out the week with back-to-back limited practices, and he's good to go Week 13 against Washington. He saw an increased role in Week 12's loss to the Cowboys, which may be worth monitoring to see if it carries over to today.

Brightwell (illness) is questionable for Sunday's matchup against Washington, Adam Caplan of SiriusXM NFL Radio reports.

Brightwell didn't practice Wednesday due to an illness, but he's logged back-to-back limited sessions to end Week 13 prep and has a chance to suit up Sunday. The backup running back saw a career-high seven touches during the Giants' Thanksgiving Day loss to Dallas, but if Brightwell is deemed available against Washington, it's unclear if he'll match that type of usage while operating behind Saquon Barkley and Matt Breida.

Brightwell (illness) was listed as a limited participant on Wednesday's estimated injury report, per Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site.

Brightwell missed practice Wednesday after he reportedly came down with an unspecified illness Tuesday. However, the running back appears to be working through this ailment well, and he will have one more chance to practice in full before Sunday's game against Washington. Brightwell saw season highs in touches and offensive snaps during the Giants' loss to Dallas on Thanksgiving Day, so he could be in line for additional usage behind Saquon Barkley and Matt Breida when healthy.

Brightwell (illness) wasn't spotted at practice Wednesday, Dan Duggan of The Athletic reports.

Brightwell is under the weather to start Week 13 prep but will have two more opportunities to practice before the team needs to make a decision on his status for Sunday's matchup against Washington. The aliment comes at an inopportune time for the running back, who saw a career-high seven touches in the team's Week 12 loss to Dallas.

Brightwell is dealing with an illness Tuesday, Dan Duggan of The Athletic reports.

Brightwell is coming off a season-high five carries for 31 yards, as well as two catches on two targets for 18 yards in Week 12's loss to the Cowboys. With no one behind him on the team's positional depth chart, a promotion from the team's practice squad may be in order, if he is unable to suit up Sunday against the Commanders.

Brightwell rushed five times for 31 yards and caught both of his targets for 18 yards in a Thanksgiving loss to Dallas.

Brightwell came into Thursday with just four carries on the campaign and none since Week 5. The second-year back exceeded that season total with five totes against the Cowboys, and he added his first two receptions (on his first two targets) of the campaign. Brightwell did well with the opportunity, ripping off a 15-yard gain on his second carry, following that with an 11-yard rush and later adding carries of four and six yards, respectively, on consecutive plays to single-handedly give New York a first down. Saquon Barkley remained the bell cow in the contest with 15 touches and 44 offensive snaps, and Matt Breida saw his usual level of involvement with three touches and 16 snaps to Brightwell's 10. That suggests that Brightwell is still the third ball-carrying option on the team, though his effectiveness Thursday could lead the Giants to start giving him more looks.

Brightwell rushed twice for five yards and scored a touchdown in a 27-22 win over the Packers on Sunday. He also returned three kickoffs for 56 yards.

When Saquon Barkley briefly departed with a shoulder injury during a Giants drive that ran from the end of the third quarter through the beginning of the fourth, both Brightwell and Matt Breida got to see more time than usual on the field. Brightwell logged two carries during the drive and helped New York tie the score 20-20 with a two-yard run into the end zone. With just four carries and no receiving targets through five weeks, it's clear that Brightwell isn't going to be asked to do much aside from returning kickoffs as long as the two running backs ahead of him are healthy.

Brightwell rushed once for 14 yards and was not targeted in the passing game during a 19-16 victory versus the Panthers on Sunday.

Brightwell was in on only one offensive snap in the contest, but he made the most of it with a 14-yard rush in a third-and-one situation in the fourth quarter. The carry moved New York past midfield and helped set up Graham Gano's game-deciding 56-yard field goal. In addition to the one carry, Brightwell logged 17 snaps on special teams, which is where he figures to make most of his impact this season.

Brightwell (undisclosed) was a full participant during Wednesday's practice, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.

Brightwell was sidelined for the Giants' second preseason contest but returned to action for the finale and will be good to go for the regular-season opener. The second-year return man is expected to operate as a depth running back behind Saquon Barkley and Matt Breida, but he'll get most of his snaps on special teams.

Brightwell won't play in Sunday's preseason matchup against the Bengals, Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News reports.

Both Brightwell and Matt Breida (undisclosed) will be held out against Cincinnati, so Antonio Williams and Jashaun Corbin should have increased opportunities in the Giants' backfield. Brightwell's final chance to play in the preseason will be Aug. 28 against the Jets.

Brightwell figures to see plenty of action in Thursday's preseason opener versus New England, Dan Duggan of The Athletic reports.

No. 2 running back Matt Breida is dealing with an undisclosed injury and isn't expected to play Thursday, and Saquon Barkley will likely see very limited snaps. That should leave lots of room for youngsters Antonio Williams, Jashaun Corbin and Brightwell to show off their skills. Brightwell was listed as the third-string running back on the Giants' first unofficial depth chart, but Williams has more often been receiving those reps during camp. Only one of Brightwell, Williams and Corbin may make the roster.

Brightwell (neck) was a participant in the Giants' voluntary minicamp Wednesday.

Brightwell ended last season on IR after suffering a neck injury in Week 15 against the Cowboys. The 2021 sixth-round selection saw little work on offense during his rookie campaign, getting one carry for four yards and one reception on one target for six yards in 13 games. Instead Brightwell was a consistent contributor on special teams, a role he'll likely continue this upcoming season.

Brightwell (neck) was placed on injured reserve Thursday, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.

Brightwell sustained a neck injury in Week 15 and hadn't returned to practice since then. With just two games remaining in the regular season, he'll be unable to return to the 2021 campaign. The 2021 sixth-rounder appeared in 13 games during his rookie season but played primarily on special teams.

Brightwell (neck) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Eagles, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.

Brightwell suffered the neck injury last week against the Cowboys and will be sidelined for at least one game. Saquon Barkley (ankle) and Devontae Booker are the only other running backs on the active roster, so the Giants could add a back from the practice squad for depth purposes this weekend.

Brightwell (neck) is not participating in Wednesday's practice, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.

Brightwell suffered a neck injury in the first half of Sunday's loss to the Cowboys and did not retake the field. The special-teams contributor will have two more chances to practice ahead of Week 16's road matchup against the Eagles.

Brightwell (neck) will not return Sunday against the Cowboys, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.

Brightwell suffered the injury in the first half on a special-teams play. His absence shouldn't impact the Giants' offense, as he is primarily a special-teams contributor.

Brightwell is questionable to return after suffering a neck injury in Sunday's game against Dallas, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.

Brightwell suffered the injury in the first half on a special teams play. He has recorded only one rushing attempt and one reception across 12 games this season, so his absence isn't likely to have a major effect on the Giants' offense.

Brightwell was activated from the reserve/COVID-19 list Monday, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.

Dan Duggan of The Athletic confirms that Brightwell actually tested positive for COVID-19, but the rookie running back has evidently recovered. If any lingering effects of the virus don't prevent Brightwell from suiting up Monday in Tampa Bay, his role will depend on the health of Saquon Barkley (ankle) and Devontae Booker (hip), who are both well above Brightwell in New York's backfield pecking order when healthy.

Brightwell (undisclosed) remains on the reserve/COVID list as of Sunday.

Brightwell was among a number of Giants players and personnel to enter the COVID-19 protocol this week, and while he was listed as questionable Sunday against the Raiders, the team was unable to activate him Saturday, according to Dan Duggan of The Athletic. With Saquon Barkley (ankle) again inactive, the Giants were left with Devontae Booker, Elijhaa Penny and Cullen Gillaspia out of the backfield for Week 9. Booker ended up injuring his hip during Sunday's 23-16 loss, so if Brightwell can get back to the active roster in the near future he could be a candidate to get some touches on game days.

Brightwell (undisclosed) is unavailable for Sunday's game against the Raiders, according to Dan Benton of USA Today.

Brightwell missed Thursday's and Friday's practices after landing in the COVID-19 protocol and wasn't activated from the reserve/COVID-19 list Saturday. With Saquon Barkley (ankle) still sidelined, the Giants are down to Devontae Booker, Elijhaa Penny and Cullen Gillaspia out of the backfield.

Brightwell (undisclosed) is officially listed as questionable for Sunday's matchup with the Raiders.

Brightwell missed Thursday and Friday's practice after landing in COVID-19 protocol. If he is ultimately cleared ahead of Sunday's game he will be expected to provide depth in the backfield behind Devontae Booker and Elijhaa Penny, as well as contribute on special teams.

Brightwell didn't practice Thursday and is in the COVID-19 protocol, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.

Brightwell was seemingly one of several Giants players and test members that tested positive for COVID-19 earlier this week, but following subsequent retesting, only running backs coach Burton Burns has had his positive result confirmed. Meanwhile, running back Saquon Barkley (ankle) and safety Xavier McKinney were placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list Wednesday, though New York seemingly has hope that both will be cleared upon further follow-up testing. Brightwell's ability to avoid landing on the list thus far suggests the Giants have less concern about his status than Barkley's or McKinney's, but Brightwell's absence from practice suggests he's not completely out of the woods yet. Assuming Brightwell is cleared ahead of Sunday's game against the Raiders, he'll likely be limited to a special teams role behind Devontae Booker and Elijhaa Penny, the Giants' preferred options for backfield work while Barkley is on the mend from the ankle injury.

Brightwell did not play an offensive snap during Monday's 20-17 loss against the Chiefs.

Brightwell has yet to record an offensive snap since the Giants' Week 3 loss against the Falcons. The 2021 sixth-round pick has failed to make a name in the Giants' rushing attack despite an injury to All-Pro running back Saquon Barkley (ankle). In Barkley's absence the team has relied exclusively on running backs Devontae Booker and Elijhaa Penny. Monday's contest saw only Booker register any carries for the Giants, totaling 60 yards on 15 attempts.

Brightwell didn't play an offensive snap in Sunday's 25-3 win over the Panthers.

All 18 of Brightwell's snaps came on special teams. With Saquon Barkley (ankle) out, New York used fullback Elijhaa Penny (nine carries for 24 yards) to spell primary option Devontae Booker (14 carries for 51 yards and a touchdown). Despite Penny's lackluster performance, the Giants seem to trust him more than Brightwell, whom the team selected in the sixth round of the 2021 draft.

Brightwell failed to record an offensive snap in Sunday's 44-20 loss to the Cowboys.

Brightwell's 16 special teams snaps represented his only action in Week 5. The rookie's lack of usage in the running game was surprising considering teammate Saquon Barkley exited the game in the first quarter with an ankle injury. Instead, it was Devontae Booker and Elijhaa Penny who carried the load after Barkley's departure. Booker, the team's No. 2 back, rushed 16 times while Penny, listed as a fullback, finished the game with just one carry. Brightwell could see a modest bump to his usage on offense with Barkley sidelined again, but it appears New York doesn't view the 23-year-old as a go-to option out of the backfield. The Giants take on the Rams in Week 6, and Brightwell should remain off the fantasy radar for that contest.

Brightwell failed to record a single rush or target in Sunday's 27-21 win over the Saints.

Brightwell did not see the field on offense and is currently the team's third string running back behind Saquon Barkley and Devontae Booker. With Barkley playing at an elite level, both Booker and Brightwell will likely find it difficult to see much playing time in the Giants' offensive attack. However, if Barkley were to suffer an injury this season, the rookie could potentially find himself splitting some work with Booker. Brightwell remains well off the fantasy radar heading into a Week 5 matchup against the Cowboys.

Brightwell had one carry for four yards Sunday against the Falcons.

With Devantae Booker a healthy scratch, it appears Brightwell is Saquon Barkley's backup for the time being. Barkley seems healthy enough to carry a full workload, however.

Brightwell didn't record an offensive snap during Thursday's contest against Washington.

Brightwell played eight offensive snaps and caught his only target for six yards in Week 1, but he wasn't part of the offense in Week 2. The 22-year-old is not a viable fantasy option as long as Saquon Barkley and Devontae Booker are healthy.

Brightwell caught his lone target for 6 yards in Sunday's 27-13 loss to the Broncos.

Brightwell did not record a single carry in the contest while operating as the team's No. 3 running back. The rookie played eight of a total 61 snaps as the Giants struggled to get much of anything going on offense. Brightwell is not a trustworthy option for fantasy managers as long as both Saquon Barkley and Devontae Booker are healthy. Next up for the Giants is a Thursday night tilt against Washington to kick of Week 2.

Brightwell rushed three times for seven yards in Sunday's 17-13 preseason loss to the Browns. He also caught three of five targets for 12 yards.

Brightwell saw action behind Devontae Booker and Corey Clement. The rookie sixth-rounder didn't manage many yards, but Brightwell at least showed some pass-catching utility, tying for the team high in receptions. Although Booker and Clement represent needed veteran insurance behind star Saquon Barkley, Brightwell will nonetheless hope to earn a roster spot following next weekend's exhibition finale.

Brightwell (undisclosed) is practicing Tuesday after being sidelined early in training camp, Art Stapleton of The Bergen Record reports.

It's unclear what's kept the rookie sixth-round pick off the field, but he's returned to practice after missing the first preseason game. The next few weeks of the preseason could be big for Brightwell, who's competing with Corey Clement for No. 3 on the depth chart behind Saquon Barkley (knee) and Devontae Booker.