Sterling Shepard Injury News & Updates
Keep up with the latest injuries from the Buccaneers vs Rams game on Sunday with our National Football League injury report.Nov 16, 2025
Tallies four catches in Week 11
Shepard recorded four catches (on five targets) for 54 yards and added a seven-yard carry during Sunday's 44-32 loss at Buffalo.
ANALYSIS
With Chris Godwin (fibula) still sidelined and Mike Evans (collarbone) on injured reserve, Shepard continued to play a decent role in the Buccaneers' passing game, leading the team in receiving yards and ranking second to rookie WR Emeka Egbuka in receptions and targets. Shepard's yardage through the air Sunday marked his second-most of the campaign through 10 contests, but his volume as a receiver could dwindle as soon as next Sunday at the Rams if Godwin, who returned to practice this week, is cleared for game action.
Nov 11, 2025
Three catches in Week 10 loss
Shepard brought in three of four targets for 20 yards in the Buccaneers' 28-23 loss to the Patriots on Sunday.
ANALYSIS
The veteran wideout's impact was limited despite the ongoing absences of Mike Evans (IR, collarbone/concussion) and Chris Godwin (fibula), and even though Shepard garnered a solid 65.0 percent snap share (45 snaps). Since posting a season-high 80 receiving yards back in Week 3 against the Jets, Shepard has a modest 19-142-1 receiving line on 25 targets over six subsequent games, so his appeal will remain limited to deep leagues and large-field DFS tournaments in a Week 11 road matchup against a typically stingy Bills secondary.
Oct 29, 2025
Minimal output in Week 8 win
Shepard finished with an eight-yard reception on two targets in Sunday's 23-3 win over the Saints.
ANALYSIS
With the Buccaneers placing Mike Evans (collarbone) on injured reserve prior to Sunday's game and with Chris Godwin (fibula) ruled out for the third contest in a row, Shepard appeared primed to see an expanded role in the Tampa Bay passing attack in a favorable matchup with the Saints. That ultimately didn't come to fruition, as the Buccaneers cruised to an easy win thanks to four Saints turnovers that created short fields for quarterback Baker Mayfield, who dropped back just 27 times on the day. Shepard was one of just five Tampa Bay pass catchers targeted in the win, with none eclipsing 43 receiving yards. Shepard ended up playing just 41 percent of the offensive snaps in the victory, and his role could be downsized further if Godwin and/or Jalen McMillan (neck) are able to return following the Buccaneers' Week 9 bye.
Oct 26, 2025
Filling No. 2 receiver role Sunday
Shepard is projected to operate as the No. 2 receiver in Sunday's Week 8 matchup against the Saints due to the absences of Mike Evans (IR, collarbone/concussion) and Chris Godwin (fibula), Scott Smith of the team's official site reports.
ANALYSIS
The veteran wideout started the Week 7 loss to the Lions working as the No. 3 receiver, but he bumped up a notch on the depth chart during the game when Evans exited with his pair of injuries. Shepard wound up with a season-high seven receptions on his seven targets against Detroit, albeit while netting only 25 receiving yards. Sunday, Shepard is due to begin the game as the No. 2 wideout, and he could certainly benefit from the defensive attention likely to be showered on rookie position mate Emeka Egbuka.
Oct 21, 2025
Does little with seven catches
Shepard secured all seven targets for 25 yards in the Buccaneers' 24-9 loss to the Lions on Monday night. He also lost a fumble.
ANALYSIS
Shepard tied Cade Otton for the team lead in receptions with a figure that also served as the veteran receiver's season high, but he averaged minuscule 3.6 yards per catch. The Lions' extremely short-handed secondary significantly overperformed expectations against a Buccaneers offense that had been running hot, and Shepard therefore posted his third sub-30-yard tally of the season. Nevertheless, considering Mike Evans will be out for a significant amount of time due to the broken collarbone he suffered Monday night -- and Chris Godwin has now missed consecutive games with a fibula injury -- Shepard figures to remain in an expanded role for the foreseeable future.
Oct 12, 2025
Gains 51 yards Sunday
Shepard had two receptions on three targets for 51 yards in Sunday's 30-19 win over the 49ers.
ANALYSIS
Shepard was elevated to second on the receiver depth chart after Mike Evans (hamstring) and Chris Godwin (fibula) were ruled out for Sunday's tilt. Things could have opened up more for the veteran after Emeka Egbuka (hamstring) left the contest early, but it was fellow wideouts Kameron Johnson and Tez Johnson who cashed in a pair of Baker Mayfield passing touchdowns Sunday. While things didn't pan out for Shepard in Week 6 (given his elevated opportunities), Egbuka's potential absence moving forward means that Shepard is worth holding for next Monday's tilt against the Lions.
Oct 12, 2025
Set for No. 2 duties Sunday
Shepard is set to operate as the Buccaneers' No. 2 receiver in Sunday's game against the 49ers due to Mike Evans (hamstring) and Chris Godwin (lower leg) both being ruled inactive for the contest, per Scott Smith of the team's official site.
ANALYSIS
Shepard warmed up for his projected expanded role by recording his first touchdown since Week 5 of last season in last Sunday's win over the Seahawks. The veteran has remained healthy over his season-plus in Tampa Bay and shown he still has plenty to offer in the process, and he'll enter Sunday's matchup against the 49ers with a 17-191-1 receiving line on 24 targets.
Oct 6, 2025
Nabs first TD reception of 2025
Shepard finished with four receptions on five targets for 24 yards and a touchdown while losing five yards on his only rushing attempt in Sunday's 38-35 win over Seattle.
ANALYSIS
Shepard overcame a minor foot injury early in the practice week in order to suit up without restrictions in Sunday's win. The 32-year-old continued serving as the Buccaneers' No. 3 receiver, occupying the vacancy left by Mike Evans (hamstring) in Weeks 4 and 5 after filling in for Chris Godwin over the team's first three contests. If Evans remains sidelined for next Sunday's tilt against the 49ers, Shepard can continue providing value in Week 6 for those in deeper formats.
Oct 2, 2025
Full practice Thursday
Shepard (foot) practiced in full Thursday.
ANALYSIS
After missing Wednesday's walkthrough due to a foot injury, Shepard was able to handle every practice rep one day later, clearing him for Week 5 action. With Mike Evans (hamstring) expected to be out again Sunday in Seattle, Shepard is poised to remain the No. 3 wide receiver in the Buccaneers offense behind Chris Godwin and Emeka Egbuka, a role that's amounted to 13 catches (on 19 targets) for 167 yards and no touchdowns for him in four games this season.
Oct 1, 2025
DNP due to foot issue
Shepard didn't participate in Wednesday's walkthrough due to a foot injury, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard has been regularly playing at least 60 percent of the offensive snaps this season, and this past Sunday's loss to the Eagles was no different. While Mike Evans (hamstring) was sidelined, Chris Godwin (foot) made his season debut, and Shepard finished third in snap share (45 percent) behind rookie Emeka Egbuka (89 percent) and Godwin (81 percent). The result, at least for Week 4, was modest for Shepard (2-14-0 on four targets), and he now is dealing with a health concern. Evans still wasn't practicing as of Wednesday and is expected to miss multiple games, so if Shepard is able to prove his health by the end of the week, he should resume his standing as the Buccaneers' No. 3 WR on Sunday in Seattle.
Sep 28, 2025
Pair of catches in Week 4 loss
Shepard brought in two of four targets for 14 yards in the Buccaneers' 31-25 loss to the Eagles on Sunday.
ANALYSIS
Shepard continued to operate the No. 3 receiver since Chris Godwin's season debut was offset by Mike Evans' absence due to a hamstring injury. The veteran wideout saw a significant downturn from his season-high 80-yard output in Week 3, but given his chemistry with Baker Mayfield, Shepard has an outside chance to be a bit more productive in a Week 5 road matchup against the Seahawks.
Sep 21, 2025
Hits for season-high 80 yards
Shepard caught four of five targets for 80 yards in Sunday's 29-27 win over the Jets.
ANALYSIS
Shepard put together his best game of the season, finishing just five yards short of rookie Emeka Egbuka's team-high total. The veteran slot receiver has an 11-153-0 line on 15 targets through Tampa Bay's first three games while taking advantage of the absence of Chris Godwin (ankle), but even if Godwin is ready to make his season debut in Week 4 against the Eagles, Shepard's role may not decrease immediately as Mike Evans left Sunday's win in the fourth quarter with a hamstring injury.
Sep 16, 2025
Remains involved in Week 2 win
Shepard secured all four targets for 34 yards in the Buccaneers' 20-19 win over the Texans on Monday night.
ANALYSIS
The veteran wideout finished tied for third in receptions and enjoyed the same slotting in receiving yards as well while playing on a robust 60 of 88 snaps from scrimmage. A relationship with Baker Mayfield that dates back to their college days -- and that served as the foundation for Shepard being coaxed out of semi-retirement last season -- has paid off to an extent over the first two games of the new campaign, as Shepard sports a 7-73 line on 10 targets. The 32-year-old is likely to continue seeing a handful of targets as the de facto No. 3 receiver while at least one of Chris Godwin (ankle) or Jalen McMillan (IR-neck) remains sidelined.
Sep 9, 2025
Three grabs to open season
Shepard brought in three of six targets for 39 yards in the Buccaneers' 23-20 win over the Falcons on Sunday.
ANALYSIS
The veteran receiver flashed his chemistry with college teammate Baker Mayfield on a few occasions, and Shepard actually finished second on the Bucs in targets for the afternoon. Shepard's final catch was the most important, as he made clutch 10-yard grab on third-and-9 during what would turn out to be the game-winning drive. Given the short-handed nature of Tampa Bay's receiving corps for the moment, Shepard has some appeal in deep formats as the current No. 3 receiver -- he logged 37 snaps to Tez Johnson's eight Sunday -- in an offense helmed by a quarterback with whom he has long-established rapport.
Aug 17, 2025
Pacers air attack in win
Shepard brought in all three targets for 47 yards in the Buccaneers' 17-14 preseason win over the Steelers on Saturday night.
ANALYSIS
Shepard led the Buccaneers in receiving yards on a night when Mike Evans once again rested and Jalen McMillan exited with neck and head injuries. The veteran opened the game with the first-team offense, recording a seven-yard grab on the opening drive from Teddy Bridgewater and subsequently adding 13- and 27-yard catches on Tampa Bay's third possession. Shepard's surprisingly serviceable showing during the 2024 regular season (32-334-1 across 14 games) and a working relationship with Baker Mayfield that dates back to college should give him a solid path to a roster spot again, and his performance Saturday certainly didn't hurt his chances.
Mar 14, 2025
Staying in Tampa Bay
Shepard is re-signing with Tampa Bay for one season, according to Buccaneers GM Jason Licht.
ANALYSIS
Known for a promising career that was derailed by a series of severe injuries, Shepard left the Giants for the first time last year and ended up spending much of 2024 as Tampa Bay's No. 3 or 4 receiver. He'll likely enter camp somewhere between fourth and sixth on the depth chart, unless Chris Godwin's recovery from an ankle dislocation comes along slower than expected. Godwin, Mike Evans and Jalen McMillan are locked in as the team's top three wide receivers, leaving the likes of Shepard, Trey Palmer and Rakim Jarrett to compete for depth roles.
Jan 13, 2025
Solid as reserve option in '24
Shepard, who was active for Sunday night's 23-20 wild-card loss to the Commanders but did not log any stats over 27 snaps, finished the 2024 regular season with 32 receptions for 334 yards and a touchdown on 51 targets along with eight rushes for 69 yards across 14 games.
ANALYSIS
The veteran wideout was signed partly due to his college connection with Baker Mayfield, and Shepard ended up proving he still had something left in the tank after three injury-hampered and mostly ineffective seasons to cap off his long tenure with the Giants. Shepard ended up playing a bigger role than first envisioned due to Chris Godwin's season-ending ankle injury, recording at least four catches in four games and exceeding 40 receiving yards on four occasions as well. Shepard's season-long reception and receiving yardage totals outpaced the combined 23 catches and 211 yards he'd mustered in his final two Giants campaigns in 2022 and 2023, while his eight rush attempts represented a new career high. Shepard will once again be an unrestricted free agent come the new league year in March, and it's possible the Buccaneers opt to move on considering Godwin's expected return and Jalen McMillan's emergence over the course of his rookie year.
Jan 10, 2025
Cleared to play
Shepard (foot/knee) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Commanders.
ANALYSIS
Shepard was a full practice participant Friday, after limited sessions the previous two days. He figures to fill his usual role as the No. 3 receiver, coming off a quiet Week 18 performance in which he got just two targets despite playing 66 percent of snaps.
Jan 9, 2025
Remains limited at practice
Shepard (foot/knee) was a limited practice participant Thursday.
ANALYSIS
Shepard maintained his activity level from Wednesday's walkthrough, giving him one more opportunity to return to full participant this week. Friday's injury report will reveal whether or not he heads into the weekend with a designation for Sunday night's wild-card game versus the Commanders.
Jan 8, 2025
Logs limited practice
Shepard (foot/knee) was limited in practice Wednesday.
ANALYSIS
Shepard returned from a one-game absence due to a hamstring injury in Tampa Bay's regular-season finale, a Week 18 win over the Saints. He played 66 percent of offensive snaps and secured one of two targets for 11 yards. Now dealing with foot and knee issues, Shepard will work to get healthy in time to contribute in a depth capacity during Sunday's wild-card game against the Commanders.
Jan 6, 2025
One catch in return
Shepard (hamstring) brought in one of two targets for 11 yards in the Buccaneers' 27-19 win over the Saints on Sunday.
ANALYSIS
Shepard made his return from a one-game absence but had a quiet game during an afternoon where the Saints made the Buccaneers' air attack work for every yard. The veteran wideout finished last in catches on the Bucs while also tying for the fewest amount of targets, but Shepard's experience could be key during a postseason run that begins with a wild-card matchup against the Commanders next Sunday night.
Jan 5, 2025
Suiting up Sunday
Shepard (hamstring) is active for Sunday's Week 18 matchup against the Saints, Scott Smith of the team's official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard was limited in practice throughout the week after sitting out the Week 17 game against the Panthers, and he apparently corroborated his health sufficiently to garner active status for Tampa Bay's must-win regular-season finale. Shepard's return to the No. 3 receiver spot Sunday will thrust Ryan Miller back into a No. 4 role versus New Orleans.
Jan 3, 2025
Questionable after limited practice
Shepard (hamstring) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Saints.
ANALYSIS
Shepard's hoping to suit up after being limited in all three of Tampa Bay's practices during the week. If the veteran wideout takes the field, he'll likely work as the third option in Tampa Bay's receiving corps behind Mike Evans and Jalen McMillan. The Buccaneers would secure a playoff berth with a win.
Jan 2, 2025
Stays limited at practice
Shepard (hamstring) was limited at Thursday's practice.
ANALYSIS
With back-to-back capped sessions under his belt this week, Shepard appears as if he has a chance to put an end to a one-game absence Sunday against the Saints. Ultimately, Friday's injury report may provide a sense of his odds to do so. If he's able to suit up this weekend, Shepard likely would resume his role as the Buccaneers' No. 3 WR behind Mike Evans and Jalen McMillan, which has amounted to a 15-157-0 line on 24 targets in five appearances since the team's Week 11 bye.
Jan 1, 2025
Limited Wednesday
Shepard (hamstring) practiced in a limited capacity Wednesday.
ANALYSIS
Sidelined this past Sunday against the Panthers due to hamstring and foot injuries, Shepard is listed with only the first health concern as the Buccaneers begin Week 18 prep. How he fares on the field Thursday and Friday likely will determine whether or not he enters the weekend with a designation for Sunday's regular-season finale versus the Saints.
Dec 27, 2024
Out for Week 17
Coach Todd Bowles said Friday that Shepard (hamstring/foot) has been ruled out for Sunday's game versus the Panthers, Brianna Dix of the Buccaneers' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard exited in the third quarter of this past Sunday's contest at Dallas due to a hamstring injury, which, combined with the foot issue that he dealt with last week, will keep him sidelined Week 17. The Buccaneers' receiving corps Sunday will be composed of Mike Evans, Jalen McMillan, Ryan Miller, Trey Palmer and Rakim Jarrett. As for Shepard, he'll focus on getting healthy for a Week 18 matchup with the Saints.
Dec 26, 2024
Doesn't practice Thursday
Shepard (hamstring/foot) didn't take part in practice Thursday.
ANALYSIS
Shepard has yet to mix into drills this week due to the hamstring injury that forced him out of this past Sunday's loss at Dallas and also the foot issue he tended to last week. Friday's practice report may shed some light on his odds to suit up Sunday versus the Panthers, but Ryan Miller likely would bump up the WR pecking order behind Mike Evans and Jalen McMillan if Shepard is limited or sidelined this weekend.
Dec 25, 2024
Listed as DNP on Wednesday
Shepard (hamstring/foot) is listed as a non-participant on Wednesday's practice estimate.
ANALYSIS
Shepard exited this past Sunday's game in Dallas due to a hamstring injury and didn't return. He also dealt with a foot issue in advance of that contest and now is listed with both health concerns to kick off Week 17 prep. As a result, Shepard's status will be one to monitor as the week continues see if he may be in danger of missing Sunday's contest against the Panthers.
Dec 22, 2024
Ruled out for rest of SNF
Shepard (hamstring) won't return to Sunday's game against the Cowboys.
ANALYSIS
Shepard came up lame at the end of a 14-yard run in the third quarter and grabbed at his hamstring. He was ruled out shortly thereafter. Shepard caught one of three targets for 20 yards prior to the injury but also had two drops, including one that hit him right in the numbers on fourth down in the first quarter.
Dec 20, 2024
Ready for Week 16
Shepard (foot) doesn't have a designation for Sunday's game at Dallas, Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reports.
ANALYSIS
Ahead of a Week 15 matchup with the Chargers, Shepard managed just one limited practice (Friday) due to a foot injury but still suited up this past Sunday, earning a 50 percent snap share and catching his only target for 16 yards. This time around, he sat out Wednesday but followed it up with back-to-back capped sessions due to the same health concern. With his status cleared for Week 16, Shepard will remain the No. 3 WR behind top options Mike Evans and Jalen McMillan.
Dec 19, 2024
Limited Thursday
Shepard (foot) practiced on a limited basis Thursday.
ANALYSIS
Shepard thus has made a bit of progress after sitting out Wednesday's session due to a foot injury and even is ahead of last week's practice regimen, when he didn't get back on the field until Friday as a limited participant. This Friday's practice report will reveal whether or not he enters the weekend with a designation for Sunday's contest in Dallas.
Dec 18, 2024
Still working through foot injury
Shepard (foot) was listed as a DNP on Wednesday's practice report.
ANALYSIS
Shepard was able to work through a foot issue this past Sunday against the Chargers, though he played in just 48 percent of the Bucs' offensive snaps and finished with one catch on as many targets for 16 yards. The veteran wide receiver should be able to play against the Cowboys on Sunday so long as he's able to practice in least a limited capacity over the next two days. Shepard has accumulated 14 catches (on 21 targets) for 137 yards in the four games since Tampa Bay's Week 11 bye.
Dec 17, 2024
Sees one catch in win
Shepard brought in his only target for a 16-yard gain in the Buccaneers' 40-17 win over the Chargers on Sunday.
ANALYSIS
Shepard played through the foot issue that had hampered him during the practice week, but he took a back seat to Mike Evans and Jalen McMillan during the high-scoring win. However, Shepard still logged a solid 32 snaps and remains firmly entrenched in the No. 3 receiver role heading into a Week 16 road matchup against the Cowboys.
Dec 15, 2024
Suiting up Sunday
Shepard (foot) is active for Sunday's Week 15 game against the Chargers, Scott Smith of the team's official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard was trending upward entering the weekend after managing to get in a limited practice Friday, and his availability is now confirmed. The veteran wideout has settled in nicely as a complementary pass-catching option in the wake of Chris Godwin's season-ending ankle injury, recording a 21-194 line on 33 targets over the last six contests.
Dec 15, 2024
Trending toward playing Week 15
Shepard, who is questionable for Sunday's matchup versus the Chargers due to a foot injury, is expected to suit up, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard popped up on the injury report Wednesday due to a foot issue and didn't practice in either of Tampa Bay's first two sessions this week. However, he was able to participate in a limited fashion Friday, and it appears he'll be able to play Sunday against the Chargers. Shepard has increased his production since the Buccaneers' Week 11 bye, tallying 13 receptions for 121 yards over the team's past three contests.
Dec 13, 2024
Listed as questionable
Shepard (foot) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Chargers after returning to practice Friday as a limited participant.
ANALYSIS
The limited practice Friday represents Shepard's only participation this week, although there hasn't been any indication his foot injury is serious. He got either six or seven targets in each of the past three games, catching 13 of 20 passes for 121 yards in that stretch. If Shepard is declared inactive before the 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff, Trey Palmer and Rakim Jarrett will be the top candidates to take on extra WR snaps.
Dec 12, 2024
Sitting out another practice
Sterling (foot) isn't participating in Thursday's practice, Greg Auman of Fox Sports reports.
ANALYSIS
With a pair of absences to begin Week 15 prep, Shepard's status for Sunday's game against the Chargers is looking shaky. The veteran wideout will likely need to practice in some fashion Friday just to carry a questionable tag into the weekend, while another missed practice would likely result in him being ruled out for Sunday's game. Shepard hasn't topped a 52 percent snap share in any of Tampa Bay's last three contests but has nonetheless seen his involvement in the passing game increase, as he's put together a 13-121-0 receiving line on 20 targets during that stretch.
Dec 11, 2024
Dealing with foot issue
Shepard didn't practice Wednesday due to a foot injury, Brianna Dix of the Buccaneers' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard joined the Buccaneers' top wide receiver Mike Evans (hamstring) as a non-participant to kick off Week 15 prep. Evans doesn't require much, if any, practice reps in order to be ready for game day, but the same can't be said for Shepard in his first full season with the team. Shepard's activity level Thursday and Friday will be key for determining his potential to suit up Sunday at the Chargers.
Dec 10, 2024
Four more catches Sunday
Shepard brought in four of six targets for 63 yards in the Buccaneers' 28-13 win over the Raiders on Sunday.
ANALYSIS
Shepard put together another solid performance as the Buccaneers' third receiver, tying starters Mike Evans and Jalen McMillan for the team lead in receptions while checking in third in receiving yards with a figure that also qualified as a new season high. Shepard has experienced somewhat of a resurgence playing with college teammate Baker Mayfield following a forgettable and injury-plagued final three seasons with the Giants, posting a 29-287-1 line on 45 targets over 11 games, including at least four receptions in four of the last five contests.
Dec 2, 2024
Solid showing in OT win
Shepard brought in four of seven targets for 42 yards in the Buccaneers' 26-23 overtime win over the Panthers on Sunday.
ANALYSIS
The veteran wideout tied Cade Otton for the second-most targets on the Bucs while also checking in as the runner-up to Mike Evans in receiving yards. Shepard has carved out a decent complementary niche in the Buccaneers' air attack, recording at least three catches and five targets in four of the last five games while eclipsing 40 receiving yards twice in that span. Shepard should continue drawing his fair share of one-time college teammate Baker Mayfield's attention in a Week 14 home matchup against the Raiders.
Nov 26, 2024
Does little with five catches
Shepard brought in five of seven targets for 16 yards in the Buccaneers' 30-7 win over the Giants on Sunday.
ANALYSIS
Shepard finished tied for second in receptions with Mike Evans and actually led the Buccaneers in targets, but he averaged a minuscule 3.2 yards per catch. The veteran wideout figures to continue serving as a complementary presence now that Mike Evans and Jalen McMillan are both healthy, but Shepard will likely struggle to achieve fantasy relevance down the stretch due to what projects to be mostly a short-area role.
Nov 11, 2024
Just two touches in loss
Shepard brought in one of three targets for seven yards and rushed once for three yards in the Buccaneers' 23-20 loss to the 49ers on Sunday.
ANALYSIS
Shepard was in on 44 snaps (72 percent) and couldn't do much with them, despite Mike Evans (hamstring) remaining out and Jalen McMillan active but not playing any snaps potentially due to his own hamstring issue. The veteran appears unable to serve as anything more than a tertiary option at this later stage of his career, as Shepard has just a 16-166-1 receiving line and 7-55 rushing tally over eight games.
Nov 8, 2024
Good to go
Shepard (hamstring/hip) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the 49ers.
ANALYSIS
Shepard practiced just once this week, logging a limited session Friday, but he apparently showed enough to avoid an injury designation and is now set to work as Tampa's main slot receiver for another week. Fellow Bucs WR Jalen McMillan (hamstring) also returned to practice Friday but is listed as questionable for Sunday's game.
Nov 7, 2024
No practice Thursday
Shepard (hamstring/hip) didn't practice Thursday.
ANALYSIS
With Chris Godwin (IR, ankle) out for the season, Mike Evans (hamstring) sitting at least one more game and Jalen McMillan (hamstring) and Shepard not practicing yet this week, the Buccaneers' receiving corps is particularly compromised at the moment. Friday's injury report will reveal whether or not Shepard has a chance to suit up Sunday versus the 49ers.
Nov 6, 2024
Dealing with pair of health concerns
Shepard was held out of Wednesday's practice due to hamstring and hip injuries.
ANALYSIS
The Buccaneers' receiving corps is extremely banged-up at the moment, with Chris Godwin (ankle) out for the season, Mike Evans (hamstring) sidelined for at least one more game and both Shepard and Jalen McMillan (hamstring) logging DNPs to begin Week 10 prep. How the pair fares as the week continues may determine if Shepard is able to maintain his recent trend of five targets in both of the past two contests.
Nov 5, 2024
Six touches in OT loss
Shepard brought in four of five targets for 48 yards and rushed twice for 21 yards in the Buccaneers' 30-24 overtime loss to the Chiefs on Monday night.
ANALYSIS
The veteran wideout was thrust into a key role with Mike Evans (hamstring), Chris Godwin (IR, ankle) and Jalen McMillan (hamstring) all out, and Shepard finished second in receptions, receiving yards and targets on the Buccaneers. Shepard's catch total was also a season high, while his yardage tally was his second highest of the campaign. With a short week before Sunday's Week 10 home matchup against the 49ers, Shepard will be ticketed for another expanded role even if McMillan suits up, considering Evans will sit out through the Week 11 bye.
Nov 4, 2024
Active in Week 9
Shepard (hamstring) is listed as active Monday in Kansas City, Scott Smith of the Buccaneers' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard was contained to one limited practice (Saturday) during Week 9 prep due to a hamstring issue, but it won't stop him from being available to an otherwise banged-up receiving corps. Tampa Bay will be without all of Mike Evans (hamstring), Chris Godwin (IR, ankle) and Jalen McMillan (hamstring) in Week 9, meaning Shepard should be targeted early and often by QB Baker Mayfield, assuming he isn't inhibited himself. Along with Shepard, Trey Palmer, Ryan Miller, Rakim Jarrett and Marquez Callaway will be the active options at the position Monday.
Nov 2, 2024
Questionable for Week 9
Shepard (hamstring) is listed as questionable for Monday's game in Kansas City.
ANALYSIS
After sitting out practice Thursday and Friday due to a hamstring concern, Shepard was able to return on a limited basis Saturday, giving himself a chance to be available for Week 9 action. Fellow WR Jalen McMillan showed up on the Buccaneers' injury report Saturday as limited due to a hamstring issue, so Monday's list of inactives will be key for who may contribute in the passing game in the wake of Mike Evans (hamstring) and Chris Godwin (ankle) being sidelined.
Nov 2, 2024
Present for Saturday's practice
Shepard (hamstring) was present for practice Saturday,Greg Auman of Fox Sports reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard logged absences from practice Thursday and Friday, but his presence at Saturday's session offers hope that the wideout will be available Monday night against the Chiefs. Unless he's deemed a full participant Saturday, however, Shepard will presumably carry an injury designation ahead of Week 9 action.
Nov 1, 2024
Misses another practice
Shepard (hamstring) isn't participating in Friday's practice, Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard will have another opportunity Saturday to potentially get in some practice reps before the Buccaneers determine whether he carries a designation into Monday's game at Kansas City. With Chris Godwin (ankle) on injured reserve and with Mike Evans (hamstring) already ruled out for the Week 9 contest, the Buccaneers' depleted receiver room would take another hit if Shepard is also sidelined against the Chiefs.
Oct 31, 2024
Tending to hamstring issue
Shepard was a non-participant at Thursday's practice due to a hamstring injury.
ANALYSIS
Shepard has been a regular in the Buccaneers offense since Week 4, accumulating a 11-111-1 line on 17 targets and four carries for 31 yards over the last five contests. With Chris Godwin (ankle) out for the season and Mike Evans (hamstring) in the midst of a likely three-game absence, Shepard was expected to take on an even larger role, but this new health concern may put a wrench in those plans. In the end, Shepard's activity level, or lack thereof, Friday and Saturday may provide insight into his chances to play Monday at Kansas City.
Oct 28, 2024
Three grabs in loss
Shepard secured three of five targets for 18 yards in the Buccaneers' 31-26 loss to the Falcons on Sunday.
ANALYSIS
Shepard's production didn't see a boost despite the absences of Mike Evans (hamstring) and Chris Godwin (IR-ankle) and the fact he logged a robust 45 snaps (62 percent). The veteran wideout does have plenty of familiarity with Baker Mayfield from their college days and has shown some flashes this season, but his production will remain hard to trust in a tough Week 9 road matchup against the defending champion Chiefs next Monday night.
Oct 27, 2024
Checks back into Sunday's game
Shepard (hamstring) returned to the field for the third quarter of Sunday's game against the Falcons, Greg Auman of Fox Sports reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard left the contest in the second quarter due to the hamstring, but he was cleared for the second half after receiving treatment.
Oct 27, 2024
Exits with hamstring injury
Shepard is questionable to return to Sunday's game against the Falcons due to a hamstring injury.
ANALYSIS
Shepard had been targeted three times and caught two passes for 13 yards before leaving the contest late in the second quarter to have his hamstring injury evaluated. The Buccaneers are likely to have an update on Shepard's condition coming out of halftime.
Oct 27, 2024
In line for bigger role
Shepard is expected to see an expanded role in the Buccaneers' passing attack beginning with Sunday's Week 8 matchup against the Falcons due to the absences of Mike Evans (hamstring) and Chris Godwin (ankle), Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
The veteran landed in Tampa Bay thanks in large part to his college playing experience with Baker Mayfield, and although Shepard opened the regular season on the practice squad, he's already been a steady complementary option over the last four games. Shepard has cobbled together an 8-93-1 line on 12 targets and rushed four times for 31 yards over that span, and the veteran, who's likely to see plenty of slot work thanks to his experience in that role, will now help mentor young wideouts such as Jalen McMillan and Trey Palmer as they assume more responsibility in their own right beginning with Sunday's game against the Falcons.
Oct 23, 2024
One catch in loss
Shepard caught his lone target for 15 yards in Monday's 41-31 loss to the Ravens.
ANALYSIS
Shepard was not much of a factor Monday, as his one target was a season low through five games with Tampa Bay. The veteran wideout played 37 of the Buccaneer's 82 offensive snaps and was mostly an afterthought in the passing game. His usage could drastically change going forward, as Chris Godwin (ankle) is likely done for the season and Mike Evans (hamstring) is set to miss at least three weeks. Shepard is a candidate to take on a lot of the target share from quarterback Baker Mayfield, with Jalen McMillan and Trey Palmer also set to handle more work. The 31-year-old Shepard should see a lot of opportunities in a Week 8 matchup against the Falcons.
Oct 14, 2024
Seven touches as No. 3 receiver
Shepard brought in three of four targets for 23 yards and rushed four times for 31 yards in the Buccaneers' 51-27 win over the Saints on Sunday.
ANALYSIS
The veteran wideout remained in the No. 3 wideout role despite the return of Jalen McMillan from a two-game absence due to a hamstring injury. While Shepard's production wasn't anything to write home about fantasy-wise, it's notable the veteran logged a 75 percent snap share (58 snaps), his largest workload yet. However, Shepard could certainly see his participation rate take a hit to a degree in a Week 7 home matchup against the Ravens next Monday night with McMillan potentially returning to a larger role and Trey Palmer (concussion) also potentially set to garner active status.
Oct 7, 2024
Scores TD in Week 5 loss
Shepard brought in one of two targets for a four-yard touchdown in the Buccaneers' 36-30 overtime loss to the Falcons on Thursday night.
ANALYSIS
Shepard commemorated his signing to the active roster earlier in the week by getting into the end zone for the first time since Week 10 of last season while with the Giants. The veteran had logged five targets and turned them into a 3-51 line four days earlier against the Eagles as well, but once Jalen McMillan (hamstring) and Trey Palmer (concussion) are healthy again, it's difficult to see Shepard retaining any appreciable, reliable fantasy value.
Oct 1, 2024
Earns active roster spot
Shepard was signed to the Buccaneers' active roster from their practice squad Tuesday, Mike Garafolo of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard was elevated to Tampa Bay's active roster ahead of their Week 3 win and ended up playing 47 snaps on offense and catching three of five targets for 51 yards. His addition to the 53-man roster comes as the team's wide receiver corps has been decimated by injuries, with Mike Evans (knee), Jalen McMillan (hamstring), Trey Palmer (concussion) and Kameron Johnson (ankle) all questionable to suit up for Thursday's divisional matchup with the Falcons.
Sep 30, 2024
Returns to practice squad
Shepard reverted to the Buccaneers' practice squad Monday, per the NFL's transaction log.
ANALYSIS
Shepard was afforded a large workload in his second appearance of the season Sunday against the Eagles with Jalen McMillan (hamstring) inactive and Trey Palmer suffering a concussion in the contest. On his 50 (of 77) offensive snaps, Shepard hauled in three of five targets for 51 yards, which mostly was fueled by a 30-yard catch. With all of Mike Evans (knee/calf), McMillan and Palmer estimated as non-participants and Kameron Johnson (ankle) listed as limited on Monday's injury report, Shepard is poised for another expanded look in the Buccaneers offense for Thursday's game at Atlanta, assuming he's elevated again from the practice squad.
Sep 28, 2024
Elevated from practice squad again
Tampa Bay elevated Shepard from the practice squad to the active roster Saturday, Greg Auman of Fox Sports reports.
ANALYSIS
With wide receiver Jalen McMillan (hamstring) listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Eagles, the Bucs promoted Shepard from the practice squad for a second straight week. Shepard played four snaps on offense and didn't draw a target during the Bucs' Week 3 loss to the Broncos.
Sep 23, 2024
Reverts to practice squad
Shepard reverted to Tampa Bay's practice squad Monday.
ANALYSIS
Shepard didn't record any stats during Sunday's loss to the Broncos despite playing four snaps on offense. If Kameron Johnson (ankle) isn't good to go versus the Eagles next week, Shepard could be elevated for the second straight week.
Sep 21, 2024
Elevated for Week 3
The Buccaneers elevated Shepard from the practice squad to the active roster Saturday, Scott Smith of the team's official site reports.
ANALYSIS
After spending the first eight years of his NFL career with the Giants, Shepard signed with the Buccaneers in June. While he wasn't able to make the 53-man roster at the end of training camp, the 2016 second-round pick opted to stick around in Tampa Bay on the practice squad. With Kameron Johnson (ankle) being listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Broncos, Shepard's elevation to the active roster will provide depth in the Bucs' wide receiver corps behind Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, Jalen McMillan and Trey Palmer.
Aug 27, 2024
Sticking on practice squad
Shepard signed with the Buccaneers' practice squad Tuesday, Greg Auman of Fox Sports reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard cleared waivers after being released as part of Tampa Bay's final roster cuts Monday. The 31-year-old will now stick with the team on the practice squad, where he should serve as one of the top options to move up to the actice roster if the Buccaneers are in need of extra receiver depth at some point this regular season. Shepard appeared in 15 regular-season games for the Giants in 2023, catching 10 passes for 57 yards and one touchdown.
Aug 26, 2024
Dropped by Tampa Bay
The Buccaneers released Shepard on Monday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard inked a deal with the Buccaneers in June after spending the first eight seasons of his career with the Giants, but it now appears that Tampa Bay has decided to part ways with the veteran wideout. According to Rapoport, the Buccaneers are holding a spot for Shepard on the team's practice squad if the 31-year-old clears waivers.
Aug 22, 2024
Unlikely to play Friday
Shepard (undisclosed) is not likely to suit up for the Buccaneers' preseason finale against the Dolphins on Friday, Greg Auman of Fox Sports reports.
ANALYSIS
An unspecified injury has kept Shepard from playing in either of the Bucs' first two preseason games, and it appears he will also sit out for the preseason finale Friday. Despite missing an extended amount of time, the 2016 second-round pick is expected to make Tampa Bay's 53-man roster as a backup wide receiver behind Mike Evans, Chris Godwin and Jalen McMillan. Shepard signed a one-year deal with the Bucs in June after spending the first eight years of his NFL career with the Giants.
Aug 20, 2024
Returns to practice
Shepard (undisclosed) practiced Tuesday while wearing a black non-contact jersey, Greg Auman of Fox Sports reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard's return to the field is good news, but his limited availability should keep him questionable for Friday's game against the Dolphins.
Aug 14, 2024
Dealing with undisclosed injury
Shepard, who did not play in Saturday's preseason opener against the Bengals, is dealing with an unspecified injury and didn't practice Monday, Scott Smith of the team's official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Smith notes the veteran wideout actually began missing practice time in the days leading up to the game versus Cincinnati. Shepard, who was a college teammate of Baker Mayfield, is expected offer veteran depth, although he may realistically serve as no more than a No. 5 receiver given the promising play of both rookie Jalen McMillan and second-year wideout Trey Palmer.
Jun 6, 2024
Links up with Tampa
Shepard is signing a one-year contract with the Buccaneers, Mike Garafolo of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard spent the past eight years with the Giants, playing 90 of a possible 131 regular-season games. He's had a hard time staying healthy for years now, but until last season he consistently drew targets whenever available. After catching just 10 passes in 15 games last year, the 31-year-old will compete for a depth role with Tampa Bay.
Jan 10, 2024
Likely to be finished in NY
Shepard ended the regular season with 10 catches on 22 targets for 57 yards and a touchdown over 15 games. He added a six-yard rush and a 10-yard punt return.
ANALYSIS
Shepard was able to stay healthy this season after playing in just 10 contests over the previous two campaigns due to an Achilles tear and a torn ACL. However, he was relegated to a role near the back of New York's receiver depth chart and played fewer than one-third of the team's offensive snaps in all but one of his 15 appearances. The Giants seemed to acknowledge that the campaign would be his swan song with the franchise, allowing him to be the final player out of the tunnel for pregame introductions during the season finale and focusing on getting him three catches in that game so that he could move into the fifth spot all-time in receptions for the franchise. It remains to be seen if Shepard will seek to continue playing with another franchise or call it a career.
Dec 13, 2023
Active, but fails to play
Shepard was active for Monday's 24-22 win over the Packers but didn't play any snaps on offense or special teams.
ANALYSIS
Even with fellow slot receiver Parris Campbell (knee) missing the Week 14 contest, Shepard wasn't part of the Giants' wideout rotation. The Giants' decision to keep Shepard on the bench the entire night was somewhat surprising, considering the 30-year-old had drawn 10 targets over the team's last three games before a Week 13 bye. If Campbell is back in action for this Sunday's game against the Saints, Shepard could be a healthy inactive for the contest.
Nov 23, 2023
Full participant at practice
Shepard (hip) was a full participant at Thursday's practice, Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard's full participation comes one day after logging a limited workload. Barring any setbacks, he looks on track to suit up in Sunday's matchup with the Patriots. The pass catcher has seen more playing time in recent weeks, but is still seen as the third or fourth option at best in New York's receiving roation.
Nov 22, 2023
Dealing with hip injury
Shepard (hip) was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard got a little more playing time the past two weeks after barely playing for two months, but he's still not getting many targets and is at best the third or fourth option in a five/six-man rotation at wide receiver. An absence for Sunday's matchup with the Patriots could mean more snaps for Wan'Dale Robinson, Parris Campbell, Jalin Hyatt and Isaiah Hodgins, especially if Darius Slayton (arm) is out as well. Shepard appears more likely to play than Slayton, who didn't practice at all Wednesday.
Nov 13, 2023
Gets garbage-time score in loss
Shepard caught one of four targets for a two-yard touchdown in Sunday's blowout Week 10 loss to Dallas.
ANALYSIS
Shepard was shut out in the receiving department until he caught a two-yard touchdown toss from Tommy DeVito on a fade toward the corner of the end zone with six seconds remaining in the contest. The catch was just his fifth of the campaign, as he's played a very minimal role in the Giants offense this season. Shepard did see a season-high four targets Sunday, though they all came on New York's final drive of the contest when the outcome had long been decided. With that context, there's little reason to expect the veteran wideout to work his way into a more prominent offensive role, especially with the Giants ranking among the league's worst passing teams and looking ahead to a top draft pick rather than a playoff push.
Oct 18, 2023
Limited to just one snap Sunday
Shepard wasn't targeted while taking the field for just one of the Giants' 77 snaps on offense in Sunday's 14-9 loss to the Bills.
ANALYSIS
Head coach Brian Daboll talked of potentially expanding Shepard's role ahead of Week 5 action, and while the wideout ended up receiving a season-high 18 snaps in the Giants' loss to the Dolphins that week, his playing time trended back down again Week 6. Now sitting at 1-5 on the season heading into this Sunday's game against the Commanders, the Giants are quickly slipping from the playoff picture and may not have motivation to open up playing time for the 30-year-old Shepard at the expense of young wideouts Wan'Dale Robinson and Jalin Hyatt.
Oct 4, 2023
Role expected to grow
Shepard is expected to play more Sunday against the Dolphins, according to coach Brian Daboll, Art Stapleton of The Record Sports reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard has yet to play more than 20 percent of New York's offensive snaps in a game this season. Daboll said Wednesday that the team had more packages featuring Shepard in its playbook for Monday's 24-3 loss to Seattle but didn't happen to call those plays. Shepard was on the field for only five snaps Monday and caught his lone target for six yards. With the Giants getting underwhelming production from their wide receivers, Shepard could carve out a larger role moving forward if Daboll follows through on his plan.
Sep 18, 2023
Targeted just once Week 2
Shepard caught his only target for four yards in a Week 2 win against Arizona on Sunday.
ANALYSIS
For the second straight week, Shepard received just one target, though he at least came up with a catch against the Cardinals after being shut out in the season opener. The veteran wideout has been on the field for less than 20 percent of New York's offensive snaps thus far, suggesting that he's near the bottom of the team's wide-receiver pecking order. Shepard is coming off back-to-back campaigns severely shortened by injury, so it's possible his lack of involvement early is at least partly due to the Giants electing to work him back into action slowly.
Aug 18, 2023
Sees first action since return
Shepard caught his only target for six yards in Friday's preseason win over the Panthers.
ANALYSIS
In his first game action since tearing his ACL in Week 3 last year, Shepard was on the other end of a Tyrod Taylor toss right before halftime as the Giants ran a brief two-minute drill. Despite his return to full health, the veteran slot receiver faces a lot more competition for snaps and targets than he did to begin the 2022 campaign, and Shepard could find himself buried on the depth chart and potentially even off the game-day roster for a Week 1 tilt against the Cowboys.
Jul 30, 2023
Returns from PUP list
Giants head coach Brian Daboll said Shepard (knee) will be activated from the PUP list Sunday, Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard will join the Giants for his first practice since suffering a torn ACL in his left knee in a Sept. 26 loss to the Cowboys and later undergoing surgery. The wideout has been limited to just 10 regular-season appearances over the past two years, after a torn Achilles' tendon previously spelled an early end to his 2021 campaign. Due in no small part to his poor track record on the health front, Shepard settled for a one-year, $1.32 million contract with the Giants and may be forced to battle for a spot in a New York receiver group that lacks an obvious No. 1 option but has plenty of depth. Offseason pickup Parris Campbell likely represents Shepard's primary competition for reps in the slot while Wan'Dale Robinson (knee) recovers from an ACL tear of his own.
Jul 25, 2023
Can't quite avoid PUP
Shepard (knee) is on the PUP list to start training camp, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
ANALYSIS
Art Art Stapleton of The Bergen Record reports that Shepard has looked good this summer and may not stay on the PUP list for long. The 30-year-old has been the Giants' primary slot receiver whenever healthy for the past half-decade, but he's always struggled with injuries and now finds himself coming back from major surgery (ACL tear) for a second straight year -- this time in an offense that also has Parris Campbell and Wan'Dale Robinson (ACL) as slot options.
Jun 13, 2023
Continues to progress
Shepard, who tore his ACL in Week 3 of the 2022 season, noted Tuesday that he is "right on schedule" physically, " Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard, who signed a one-year contract in March to remain with the Giants, added that his "goal is to be ready for the season." Once the 30-year-old is fully up to speed, he'll have a chance to compete for slot snaps in a Giants wide receiver corps that also includes Isaiah Hodgins, Darius Slayton, Parris Campbell, Jalin Hyatt and Wan'Dale Robinson (knee). However, after suiting up for just 10 games over the past two campaigns, Shepard has much to prove health and role-wise before he'll merit fantasy consideration this coming season.
May 25, 2023
Running routes
Shepard (knee) ran routes at practice Thursday, Art Stapleton of The Bergen Record reports.
ANALYSIS
It's only non-contact work at OTAs but at least shows that Shepard is on schedule in his rehab from October surgery on an ACL tear. He signed a one-year contract with the Giants in March and may end up on the roster bubble this summer, but they'll first give the 30-year-old a chance to get healthy and compete for slot snaps. Shepard has averaged at least 42.7 receiving yards per game in each of seven pro seasons, topping 50 the past six years, but he played only 10 games total the past two years and 32 over the past four. He's now rehabbing from major surgery for a second straight offseason after tearing an Achilles in 2021.
Mar 16, 2023
Officially re-signs with Giants
Shepard (knee) re-signed with the Giants on a one-year contract Thursday, Michael Eisen of the team's official site reports.
ANALYSIS
This move was expected, but now pen has officially been put to paper. Shepard is recovering from an ACL tear sustained in Week 3 of the 2022 season. Injuries have limited his availability in recent years, but Shepard has been fairly productive when available, having topped 600 yards four times since the Giants selected him in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft.
Mar 12, 2023
Expected to be re-signed
The Giants are expected to re-sign Shepard (knee) on Wednesday, when the new league year begins, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard was selected by the Giants in the second round of the 2016 Draft and has been a steady producer since, through he's dealt with numerous injuries over the last four seasons and appeared in just 32 games during that stretch. He tore his ACL in Week 3 of the 2022 campaign and remains in the rehab process, but the impending deal with the Giants suggests New York is happy with the progress the 30-year-old wideout has made so far. However, his status for the start of the 2023 campaign remains unclear.
Nov 8, 2022
ACL surgery went well
Shepard (knee) said Tuesday that his left ACL operation was a success, and he was rehabbing the following day, Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard tore his ACL in Week 3 and underwent surgery at the end of October. He's already been placed on IR and ruled out for the 2022 campaign, marking back-to-back seasons ended by devastating injuries. The wideout has already turned his focus toward rehabbing for the 2023 campaign, but given his injury history, it seems unlikely the Giants will rush him back for the start of next season.
Oct 25, 2022
Will undergo surgery Tuesday
Shepard will undergo surgery on his left ACL on Tuesday, Art Stapleton of The Bergen Record reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard was placed on IR at the end of September after suffering an ACL tear late in the team's Week 3 loss to Dallas. The wideout rehabbed for over a month before undergoing surgery, which is similar to what teammate Saquon Barkley did, per Stapleton. The 2016 seventh-round pick has suffered devastating injuries in back-to-back seasons and has missed at least five games in all but two of his first seven NFL campaigns.
Oct 5, 2022
No additional torn ligaments
Shepard (knee) did not suffer any ligament tears in addition to his ACL, Dan Duggan of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard is likely to undergo surgery in one or two weeks, and his recovery timetable will be made somewhat more manageable with the news that he's avoided additional ligament damage. Per Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News, Shepard expressed confidence that he has another injury comeback in him, after already having already worked his way back from a torn Achilles to start the 2021 season. The longest tenured Giant will focus his efforts on recovering for the 2023 campaign, which will be his age-30 season. He is scheduled to become a free agent in the coming offseason.
Sep 28, 2022
Moved to IR
Shepard (knee) was placed on injured reserve Wednesday, Field Yates of ESPN reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard made it back from last year's Achilles tear and was the most reliable target for QB Daniel Jones early this season, but the veteran suffered an ACL tear at the end of the Week 3 loss to Dallas. He'll turn 30 next offseason and is scheduled to become an un restricted free agent.
Sep 27, 2022
Tears ACL, done for season
Head coach Brian Daboll announced Tuesday that Shepard suffered a torn ACL in his left knee in the Giants' Week 3 loss to the Cowboys and will miss the remainder of the season, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Just as the Giants had feared, Shepard fell victim to another significant lower-body injury in Monday's contest, after he had made a full recovery from the torn left Achilles' tendon he sustained last December to make it back for Week 1. The wideout will likely undergo surgery in the coming days, and even if he avoids any snags during the recovery process, his poor track record on the health front could make it difficult for the 29-year-old to secure anything more than a one-year deal on the open market when he hits free agency this offseason. With Shepard -- who led the Giants with 13 receptions for 154 yards through three games -- out of the picture, New York will have to hope that Wan'Dale Robinson (knee) and Kadarius Toney (hamstring) can overcome their own injuries to provide a needed lift to a struggling passing game.
Sep 27, 2022
Season may be over
Shepard is scheduled to undergo additional tests Tuesday on the left knee injury he suffered in Monday's 23-16 loss to the Cowboys, and the Giants fear that the receiver's season could be over, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Initial tests on Shepard's knee weren't conclusive, but the 29-year-old looks like he could be headed for another long-term absence after he was limited to just seven games in 2021 due to a hamstring injury, a left quadriceps injury and a torn Achilles' tendon. He made it back from Achilles surgery to suit up Week 1, only to go down with a non-contact knee injury in the final minutes of Monday's loss. Through the first three weeks, Shepard had been the top receiver in a banged-up Giants wideout room, logging 13 receptions for 154 yards and a touchdown on 24 targets.
Sep 26, 2022
Carted off after non-contact injury
Shepard was carted off late in Monday's game against the Cowboys after suffering an apparent knee injury, Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard was injured on New York's last offensive play of the game. He got hurt without any contact and immediately clutched his leg in pain. The context around Shepard's injury suggest this could be another serious injury for the wide receiver, though New York will run additional tests to determine its nature and extent.
Sep 18, 2022
Garners 10 targets
Shepard caught 6 of 10 targets for 34 yards in Sunday's 19-16 win over the Panthers.
ANALYSIS
Shepard led the Giants in receptions and targets. Despite his involvement, though, Shepard didn't manage to accumulate much yardage. Still, with teammate Kenny Golladay hardly seeing the field Sunday as his role continues to decrease, Shepard could profile as New York's top wideout heading into Week 3's game versus Dallas.
Sep 11, 2022
Finds end zone in Week 1
Shepard caught two of four targets for 71 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 21-20 win over the Titans.
ANALYSIS
With the Giants down 13-6 in the third quarter, Shepard got free deep and hauled in a 65-yard TD pass from Daniel Jones. That was enough to lead the Giants in receiving, as no other New York player reached 60 yards. Shepard hasn't stayed healthy enough to reach 100 targets in a season since 2018, but he saw more volume in Week 1 than Kenny Golladay and Kadarius Toney combined, and the veteran could prove to be the team's most reliable option at wideout in 2022.
Sep 9, 2022
Ready for Week 1
Shepard (Achilles) doesn't have a designation for Sunday's contest at Tennessee, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Despite suffering a torn Achilles against the Cowboys on Dec. 19, Shepard has made a quick recovery in time for the 2022 season opener. He was a limited practice participant in practice Wednesday through Friday, so his reps could be capped Sunday. Still, Shepard's presence means the Giants will have their top four wide receivers available this weekend (also, Kenny Golladay, Kadarius Toney and Wan'Dale Robinson).
Sep 9, 2022
To be game-time call
Coach Brian Daboll said Friday that he wants Shepard (Achilles) to be a game-time decision for Sunday's regular-season opener against the Titans, Tom Rock of Newsday reports.
ANALYSIS
It remains to be seen whether Shepard will be limited in Friday's practice, but it sounds like the veteran wideout's status will come down to the wire in any event. Considering that he's less than nine full months removed from a left Achilles tear, there's no guarantee that Shepard handles a complete assortment of offensive snaps Week 1 even if he does suit up.
Sep 8, 2022
Estimated as limited participant
Shepard (Achilles) was listed as a limited participant on Thursday's estimated practice report, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
The Giants didn't hold a traditional practice Thursday, so Shepard will be listed as limited for the second day in a row after his reps were capped during Wednesday's session. Shepard will look to upgrade to full activity Friday, which would bode well for his chances of being cleared to play in Sunday's season opener versus the Titans.
Sep 7, 2022
Limited Wednesday
Shepard (Achilles) was limited at Wednesday's practice, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Less than nine months removed from tearing his left Achilles last December, Shepard already has been activated from the PUP list (Aug. 24) and said he expects to suit up Week 1 (Tuesday). After a 2021 season in which the Giants cycled through numerous receivers beyond their top core, all of Kenny Golladay, Shepard, Kadarius Toney (leg) and rookie Wan'Dale Robinson appears as if they'll be available this weekend. Confirmation on Shepard's status still may come down to 90 minutes before Sunday's 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff at Tennessee.
Sep 6, 2022
Expects to play Week 1
Shepard (Achilles) said Tuesday that he's "ready to go" for the season opener against Tennessee on Sunday, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard tore his Achilles in game against Dallas on Dec. 19 last year, but he's been working his way back and was activated from the PUP list near the end of training camp. The veteran receiver didn't play in any preseason games, yet Raanan reports that he "did not appear to be limited at all" during practice Tuesday. Shepard's return should be a significant boost to the Giants' passing game, though he has struggled to remain healthy in recent seasons, playing in no more than 12 contests in any of the past three campaigns.
Aug 24, 2022
Coming off PUP list
The Giants are activating Shepard (Achilles) from the PUP list for Wednesday's practice, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
This rules out the possibility of being on the reserve/PUP list to start the regular season, which would mean an automatic absence of at least four games. Shepard may or may not be back Week 1, but the Giants apparently think he can be ready at some point in September. His return could impact rookie Wan'Dale Robinson, who has been the No. 3 receiver with the first-team offense throughout training camp and preseason. Then again, Shepard also has experience lining up on the perimeter, where the Giants face the challenge of keeping Kadarius Toney and Kenny Golladay healthy and productive.
Aug 23, 2022
Could be ready soon
Shepard (Achilles) has a chance to be activated from the PUP list before Week 1, Dan Duggan of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
If he isn't activated before Week 1, the veteran slot receiver will be ineligible for the Giants' first four games. Activation therefore would imply that the team expects him to be ready at some point in September, if not for the regular-season opener. There's some question about Shepards role/usage even if he's cleared soon, as rookie second-round pick Wan'Dale has been the No. 3 receiver and main slot guy with the first-team offense this summer. If that continues, Shepard could still get on the field as a sub for starters Kenny Golladay and Kadarius Toney, a duo that's long on talent but perhaps short on durability and consistency. Art Stapleton of The Bergen Record believes Shepard has a shot to be ready for Week 1.
Aug 18, 2022
Ramping up activity
Shepard (Achilles) is running routes Thursday and ramping up his practice workload, Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard remains on the PUP list as he works his way back from a torn left Achilles suffered Week 15 last season, but beginning on-field rehab work is a notable step in the right direction. The Giants figure to continue easing Shepard back toward a full practice load with caution, as the team has Kenny Golladay, Kadarius Toney (leg) and rookie second-rounder Wan'Dale Robinson handle three-receiver sets in the meantime.
Jul 26, 2022
Lands on PUP list
The Giants placed Shepard (Achilles) on the PUP list Tuesday, Art Stapleton of The Bergen Record reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard had a lengthy history of lower-body injuries even before he tore his Achilles in Week 15 last season. He started jogging again toward the end of May and isn't ready to practice at the beginning of training camp. Once he's ready, Shepard could face snap competition in the slot from 2021 first-round pick Kadarius Toney and 2022 second-rounder Wan'Dale Robinson.
Jun 2, 2022
Coming along in recovery
Shepard started jogging again last week for the first time since suffering a torn Achilles in December, Josina Anderson of CBS Sports reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard's recovery from the injury, which he suffered in Week 15 last year, seems to be on track as Giants general manager Joe Schoen previously indicated that he hoped the wideout would be back by August. With that in mind, Shepard mentioned to Anderson that there's no pressure when it comes to his exact return date and that he's been limited to taking mental reps and catching balls from the jugs machine while working at the Giants' facility this offseason. The 29-year-old, who finished fourth on the team in receiving yards during his injury-riddled 2021 campaign -- hauling in 36 catches for 366 yards and one touchdown over seven games -- has appeared in 29 total games across the past three seasons.
Mar 28, 2022
Could return by August
GM Joe Schoen noted Monday that he's hopeful Shepard (Achilles) will be back by August, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard, who tore his Achilles back on Dec. 19, has made good progress in his recovery, per Zack Rosenblatt of The Newark Star-Ledger. That said, the wideout figures to be eased into the training camp/preseason mix by the Giants, with an eye toward giving him a shot to be available for Week 1 action. Prior to his injury, Shepard recorded 36 catches for 366 yards and a TD in seven games, and once he's up to speed, the 29-year-old will look to re-establish his role in a WR corps that also includes Kenny Golladay, Kadarius Toney and Darius Slayton.
Mar 10, 2022
Agrees to restructured contract
Shepard (Achilles) agreed to a restructured contract with the Giants on Thursday, Zack Rosenblatt of The Newark Star-Ledger reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard will remain with the Giants for a seventh consecutive year while likely taking a pay cut after sustaining a season-ending Achilles' injury in mid-December during the 2021 campaign. The wideout's recovery process is going smoothly so far, and there's optimism that he could be cleared to return by early summer. The 29-year-old, who hasn't played a full season in any of the last three years, hauled in 36 of 53 targets for 366 yards and a touchdown across seven games in 2021, all career-low marks.
Mar 3, 2022
Pay cut being discussed
The Giants have discussed the possibility of Shepard (Achilles) needing to take a pay cut this offseason, Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard is scheduled for a cap hit of roughly $12.5 million in the 2022 season, but he's coming off an injury-plagued campaign that ended with a torn left Achilles mid-December. That likely puts the 29-year-old on track to miss all of spring activities, and potentially the start of the upcoming season. Nor are injury concerns a new development for Shepard, who missed eight regular-season games from 2019-20. While the Giants do have incentive to keep Shepard in house, as he's proven to be one of Daniel Jones' most trusted targets when healthy, it's worth noting that the team can also get out of the final two years of his contract for just under $8 million in dead cap.
Dec 20, 2021
Heads to IR, done for season
The Giants placed Shepard (Achilles) on injured reserve Monday.
ANALYSIS
Shepard's move to season-ending injured reserve was fully expected after he was diagnosed with a torn left Achilles' tendon following his early exit in Sunday's 21-6 loss to the Cowboys. Given the nature of his injury, Shepard will likely require surgery and miss the Giants' entire spring program, and his availability for the beginning of the 2022 season could be in question as well. The sixth-year wideout suited up in just seven games during an injury plagued 2021 campaign, finishing with 36 receptions for 366 yards and a touchdown on 53 targets.
Dec 19, 2021
Suffers torn Achilles
Shepard suffered a torn Achilles' during Sunday's loss to the Cowboys, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Per ESPN's Jordan Raanan it was a non-contact injury for Shepard, who is presumably destined for IR in the coming days. In his absence down the stretch, Kenny Golladay and Darius Slayton currently profile as the Giants' top healthy wideout options.
Dec 19, 2021
Cleared for Sunday
Shepard (calf) is active for Sunday's game against the Cowboys.
ANALYSIS
Shepard was added to the injury report Friday after the calf issue limited his reps in practice, resulting in him taking a questionable designation into the weekend. Though hamstring and quadriceps injuries have prevented Shepard from playing in seven games this season, his latest lower-body concern won't force an absence. In his return to the lineup for last week's loss to the Chargers, Shepard played 81 percent of the offensive snaps and finished with two receptions for 27 yards on four targets. Expect Shepard to take on a similar workload Sunday.
Dec 17, 2021
Questionable with calf injury
Shepard was added to the injury report Friday with a calf injury and is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against Dallas, Art Stapleton of The Bergen Record reports.
ANALYSIS
The late-week addition is cause for concern, even with the Giants listing Shepard as a limited participant on their Friday practice estimate (the session was just a walk-through). The veteran wide receiver caught two of four targets for 27 yards in last week's loss to the Chargers, playing 81 percent of snaps on offense in his first game back from a five-week absence caused by a quad injury. Shepard also missed time with a hamstring strain earlier this year, with lower-body injuries a recurring theme for him the past three years. An absence this Sunday could leave Pharoh Cooper as the Giants' slot receiver, with Colin Johnson also a candidate to take on snaps alongside Kenny Golladay and Darius Slayton.
Dec 12, 2021
Modest showing
Shepard caught two passes for 27 yards on four targets against the Chargers on Sunday.
ANALYSIS
Shepard couldn't get much going in this one, his first game since Week 8, but it's probably less a reflection of Shepard's play and more a credit to the Chargers pass defense. That Mike Glennon was in at quarterback instead of Daniel Jones (neck) didn't help matters, either. Shepard should be in a good spot to build on these numbers when he faces Dallas in Week 15, especially if Jones can return by then.
Dec 12, 2021
First appearance since Week 8
Shepard (quadriceps) is active for Sunday's road game against the Chargers, Zack Rosenblatt of The Newark Star-Ledger reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard is putting an end to a four-game absence due to a strained left quadriceps. In his return, he'll join forces with Kenny Golladay (ribs) at the top of the Giants' receiving corps that will be without rookie Kadarius Toney (oblique) for a third straight contest. In five appearances this season, Shepard has been fairly productive with a 32-324-1 line on 43 targets, but the Chargers defense is formidable, having given up 7.9 yards per catch (14th lowest in the NFL) and six touchdowns (second fewest) in 12 outings.
Dec 12, 2021
Likely to end four-game absence
Shepard (quadriceps) is expected to play in Sunday's game against the Chargers, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard has been sidelined by the injury for the last four games, though he appears in line to take the field Sunday after logging three limited practices. If he is active, Shepard will likely share the field with Kenny Golladay (ribs) and Darius Slayton in three-wide receiver sets. Prior to suffering the injury, Shepard occupied a major role in the Giants' offense, racking up 32 receptions across five contests. Though reports are positive regarding Shepard's status, but sure to check in when official inactives are announced prior to the team's 4:05 P.M. ET kickoff.
Dec 10, 2021
Questionable for Week 14
Shepard (quadriceps) is listed as questionable for Sunday's road contest versus the Chargers, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
The Giants also deemed Kenny Golladay (ribs) as questionable, but Dan Duggan of The Athletic is of the belief that both Golladay and Shepard are in line to suit up this weekend. With Kadarius Toney (oblique) sidelined again, Shepard would serve as one of the team's top wide receivers in his first game action since Week 8, if he's considered active. Such a decision will become known about 90 minutes before Sunday's 4:05 p.m. ET kickoff.
Dec 9, 2021
Remains limited at practice
Shepard (ankle) practiced in a limited capacity Thursday, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
The same can be said for Kenny Golladay (ribs) and Kadarius Toney (oblique) as the Giants get closer to having their top trio of wide receivers available to the offense for the first time since Week 5. After Thursday's session, Shepard relayed to Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com that he's "very optimistic" he'll put an end to a four-game absence Sunday at the Chargers, but the Giants likely want to see how he reacts to another day of on-field work before making a determination about his Week 14 availability Friday.
Dec 8, 2021
Limited on practice estimate
Shepard (quadriceps) was listed as limited on Wednesday's estimated injury report, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard earned a limited listing on the Giants' last two Week 13 reports, but he was considered doubtful to play and eventually was inactive this past Sunday at Miami. Among New York's top three wide receivers, he was the only one to fit in some reps Wednesday, as both Kenny Golladay (ribs) and Kadarius Toney (oblique) didn't participate. Consequently, if Shepard puts himself into a position to suit up Sunday at the Chargers, he could serve as the team's No. 1 WR.
Dec 5, 2021
Not playing Sunday
Shepard (quadriceps) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Dolphins, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Though Shepard closed the week with a pair of limited practice sessions, he was listed as doubtful heading into the weekend before ultimately landing on the inactive list for the fourth game in a row. Due to the length of his absence, Shepard may need to upgrade to full participation in practice at some point during the upcoming week to have a shot at suiting up in the Giants' next game Dec. 12 against the Chargers. With Kadarius Toney (quadriceps/oblique) also inactive Sunday, the Giants are left with wideouts Kenny Golladay and Darius Slayton, tight end Evan Engram and running back Saquon Barkley as the main pass-catching options for quarterback Mike Glennon.
Dec 3, 2021
Listed as doubtful
Shepard (quadriceps) is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against Miami, Zack Rosenblatt of The Newark Star-Ledger reports.
ANALYSIS
The same goes for Kadarius Toney (oblique/quad), while starting QB Daniel Jones (neck) is ruled out. Pharoh Cooper filled in as the No. 3 WR last week after being called up from the practice squad, but John Ross quad/illness) and Collin Johnson could also be options for the role this Sunday in Miami.
Dec 3, 2021
Not looking good for Sunday
Shepard (quad) doesn't appear likely to play Sunday in Miami, according to Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com.
ANALYSIS
It sounds like he isn't doing much at Friday's practice after returning Thursday as a limited participant. With Kadarius Toney (oblique/quad) a step behind Shepard and QB Daniel Jones (neck) now expected to miss time, it'll likely be Mike Glennon throwing passes to Kenny Golladay, Darius Slayton and Evan Engram come Sunday. There's also an opportunity for depth players like John Ross (illness), Collin Johnson and Kyle Rudolph (ankle) to see extra snaps/targets, but in a difficult matchup against a hot defense with a backup QB at the helm.
Dec 2, 2021
Limited in return to practice
Shepard (quadriceps) practiced in a limited capacity Thursday, Art Stapleton of The Bergen Record reports.
ANALYSIS
The limited showing marks Shepard's first recorded practice activity since suffering the quad injury in the Giants' Nov. 1 loss to the Chiefs. Because Shepard missed four weeks and three games due to the injury, the Giants will likely need to see him practice fully Friday in order for him to avoid taking a designation into Sunday's game against the Dolphins. At any rate, Shepard appears to be in a better spot in his recovery from a quad injury than fellow wideout Kadarius Toney, who was a non-participant in Thursday's session while mostly working off to the side with trainers, per Ralph Vacchiano of SportsNet New York. Shepard, meanwhile, stretched with his healthy teammates and took part in some individual work during the open portion of Thursday's practice.
Dec 1, 2021
Not practicing yet
Shepard (quad) didn't practice Wednesday, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard and Kadarius Toney (quad) remain limited to side work with the training staff, while depth wideout John Ross is now out from practice with an illness. The Giants do have two experienced starters healthy in Kenny Golladay and Darius Slayton, but they'd surely love to have at least one of Toney or Shepard back in the lineup. It's unclear if that'll happen this Sunday at Miami, as both injured wideouts continue to miss practice.
Nov 26, 2021
Ruled out again due to quad
Shepard (quadriceps) won't play Sunday against the Eagles, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard will miss a third consecutive game as a result of this injury. In addition to missing Shepard, the Giants will likely be without Kadarius Toney, who's listed as doubtful due to a quadriceps injury of his own. Kenny Golladay is New York's top healthy wide receiver for this clash of NFC East rivals, with support coming from Darius Slayton and John Ross (questionable/quad) or Collin Johnson.
Nov 25, 2021
Doesn't practice Thursday
Shepard (quadriceps) was a non-participant on Thursday's injury report.
ANALYSIS
Since straining his left quadriceps Nov. 1 at Kansas City, Shepard hasn't practiced and fortunately has missed only two games due to the Giants' bye landing in Week 10. There was a positive development Wednesday when he joined his position mates on the side prior to practice, but he's yet to mix into any drills. Both Shepard and Kadarius Toney (quadriceps) have logged DNPs this week, so Kenny Golladay and Darius Slayton are the healthiest of the team's top four wide receivers at the moment.
Nov 24, 2021
No practice reps Wednesday
Shepard (quadriceps) was listed as a non-participant on Wednesday's practice report, Zack Rosenblatt of The Newark Star-Ledger reports.
ANALYSIS
While he officially didn't log any on-field activity Wednesday, Shepard was spotted with the wide receivers on the side, per Rosenblatt. The development may indicate Shepard is closing in on a return to practice, and he'll have two more opportunities to do so before week's end. Kadarius Toney (quadriceps) also didn't practice to kick off Week 12 prep, so the Giants' receiving corps remains compromised on the health front.
Nov 20, 2021
Won't play Monday
Shepard (quadriceps) will not play Monday against the Buccaneers, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard failed to practice all week so this designation wasn't surprising. Kenny Golladay, Kadarius Toney and Darius Slayton will once again take over at the top three pass catchers, with the possibility of running back Saquon Barkley (ankle) also mixing into the target-share equation if he sheds his questionable designation in time for the prime-time matchup.
Nov 19, 2021
Held out of practice Friday
Shepard (quadriceps) didn't practice Friday, Zack Rosenblatt of The Newark Star-Ledger reports.
ANALYSIS
While Shepard missed another practice, Dan Duggan of The Athletic notes that the slot receiver appeared to do more individual work Friday than Thursday, perhaps hinting at some progress. Duggan also refers to Shepard as a "long shot" for Monday's game in Tampa Bay, likely leaving Kenny Golladay, Kadarius Toney and Darius Slayton as the Giants' clear top three at wide receiver.
Nov 18, 2021
Not yet practicing
Shepard (quadriceps) was working off to the side with trainers Thursday and is set to be listed as a non-participant on the Giants' first official practice report of Week 11, Zack Rosenblatt of The Newark Star-Ledger reports.
ANALYSIS
Even with the benefit of a Week 10 bye plus a longer turnaround for Week 11 with the Giants playing the Buccaneers on Monday, Shepard doesn't look like he'll be able to recover from a left quad strain in time to suit up. The Giants will hold out hope that Shepard upgrades to limited activity in practices Friday and Saturday, but at this stage, the wideout looks to be trending toward a second straight missed game. If that's the case, Kenny Golladay, Kadarius Toney and Darius Slayton would serve as the Giants' starting receivers Week 11.
Nov 17, 2021
Limited to rehab work
Shepard (quadriceps) remained limited to side work with the training staff Wednesday, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
It's not the best sign coming out of a bye, but Shepard does have an extra day to prepare with the Giants facing the Bucs on Monday Night Football in Week 11. The G-Men will release their first official practice report Thursday, at which point Shepard presumably will be listed as either a limited participant or non-participant. He missed a Week 9 loss to Kansas City before the Week 10 bye.
Nov 15, 2021
Not taking part in practice
Shepard (quadriceps) worked off to the side during Monday's practice but didn't take part in team or individual drills, Dan Duggan of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
With a week to go until the Giants' next game Nov. 22 in Tampa Bay, Shepard still has time to prove he's recovered from a left quad strain. Even so, the fact that he's not yet ready to practice coming out of the Giants' Week 10 bye isn't the most encouraging sign. New York will wait and see if Shepard is able to get back on the field in some capacity when the team reconvenes for its first official Week 11 practice Thursday.
Nov 9, 2021
Not practicing
Shepard (quadriceps) wasn't present Tuesday for the Giants' informal practice session, Zack Rosenblatt of The Newark Star-Ledger reports.
ANALYSIS
The Giants are on bye Week 10, but the team is holding a light practice Tuesday for both rehabbing players and lesser-established members of the roster. Shepard's absence doesn't come as much of a surprise, given that he sat out two days earlier in the Giants' win over the Raiders after having not practiced in the week leading up to the contest. The Giants likely won't have a better sense of his availability for their next game Nov. 22 in Tampa Bay until next week.
Nov 5, 2021
Won't play Week 9
Shepard (quadriceps) is listed as out for Sunday's game against the Raiders, Dan Duggan of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard wasn't able to practice in any fashion this week after straining his left quad in Monday's loss to the Chiefs, so he'll be be inactive for a fourth time this season during the Week 9 contest. Among the six receivers currently on the 53-man roster, only Kadarius Toney, Darius Slayton and Collin Johnson will enter the weekend without designations, as Kenny Golladay (knee) and John Ross (quadriceps) are listed as questionable. With a bye on tap Week 10, Shepard will hope to return to the lineup for a Nov. 22 game in Tampa Bay in Week 11.
Nov 4, 2021
Goes down as DNP on practice report
Shepard (quadriceps) was listed as a non-participant on Thursday's estimated practice report, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Per Salomone, Shepard was in attendance for the session and worked out with the team's training staff, but he apparently wasn't able to mix into any team drills. The Giants will wait and see what Shepard is able to do at the team's final practice of the week Friday before assessing his chances of playing Sunday against the Raiders, but at this stage, the wideout looks to be trending toward being inactive for a fourth time this season.
Nov 3, 2021
Not practicing Wednesday
Shepard (quadriceps) was held out of practice Wednesday, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
The same can be said for Kenny Golladay (knee), while Kadarius Toney (thumb) was limited. The top of the Giants' receiving corps has been hindered by injuries for most of the season, while Saquon Barkley has been sidelined since Week 5 due to a sprained ankle. Shepard has been heavily utilized when available, averaging 8.6 targets in his five outings this season en route to a 32-324-1 receiving line. It remains to be seen if he'll be able to do enough this week to make a sixth appearance Sunday against the Raiders.
Nov 3, 2021
Likely to miss time due to injury
The Giants are preparing for Shepard to miss time after he suffered a left quadriceps strain in Monday's 20-17 loss to the Chiefs, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard had suited up in only two of the Giants' previous five games while battling a hamstring injury, and he looks set to miss at least Sunday's game against the Raiders in Week 9 while he contends with another lower-body injury. Fortunately for Shepard, the Giants are on bye Week 10, so the wideout will presumably be turning his focus to getting healthy in advance of a Nov. 22 matchup with the Buccaneers in Week 11. Assuming the Giants officially rule Shepard out for the Week 9 contest, the team would be left with Kenny Golladay knee), Kadarius Toney (hand) and Darius Slayton as their main options at receiver. Golladay has missed the Giants' last three games but seems to at least be trending in the right direction to play against Las Vegas, while Toney exited Monday's loss with a laceration to his hand but should have a decent chance at being ready to go for the weekend.
Nov 1, 2021
Ruled out of Monday's game
Shepard won't return to Monday's game at Kansas City due to a quadriceps injury, per Lisa Salters of ESPN.
ANALYSIS
On the Giants' final drive of the first half, Shepard went down with a non-contract injury and stayed on the turf for a bit before making his way to the sideline, according to Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News. Shepard was favoring his left leg and attempted to stretch it out, but the team won't take any chances with the wide receiver after halftime. He's no stranger to lower-body injuries this season, having dealt with issues with both of his hamstrings. With just one game before a Week 10 bye, New York could exercise additional caution with Shepard and hold him out Sunday against the Raiders to ensure he's good for the second half of the campaign. Ultimately, though, his activity level in practice this week will determine his availability.
Nov 1, 2021
Suiting up Monday
Shepard (hamstring) is listed as active for Monday's game at Kansas City, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard has only played in one of the Giants' last four games due to hamstring injuries, but both he and Kadarius Toney (ankle) ran routes for Daniel Jones during pregame warmups, per Art Stapleton of The Bergen Record, and will be available to the offense Week 8. With both Kenny Golladay (knee) and Saquon Barkley (ankle) sidelined again, Shepard likely will be the top skill-position player for Jones, which has amounted to nine targets per game in his four appearances this season.
Oct 30, 2021
Questionable, expected to play
Shepard (hamstring) is listed as questionable for Monday's contest against the Chiefs, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
The Giants ruled out both Saquon Barkley (ankle) and Kenny Golladay (knee), but it sounds as if the banged-up offense will at least have Shepard and Kadarius Toney (ankle) who also elicited a questionable designation. The veteran wide receiver has played in just one game over the last four contests, but against a sieve-like Chiefs defense, Shepard should be primed for a solid outing so long as he's active.
Oct 29, 2021
Limited again Friday
Shepard (hamstring) remained limited in practice Friday, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard has battled hamstring injuries for much of the season, having already missed three games due to them. He'll have an extra day to recover ahead of the Giants' Week 8 trip to Kansas City, but the Monday start time is a double-edged sword for Shepard's fantasy managers, as replacement options will be limited if he ultimately sits. Shepard has practiced in a limited fashion so far this week and is likely to be labeled questionable when the Giants release their final injury report Saturday.
Oct 28, 2021
Logs limited practice Thursday
Shepard (hamstring) practiced in a limited fashion Thursday, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard has missed three games this season due to hamstring injuries. The most recent absence occurred Week 7 against the Panthers, which he said was the result of a tweak while running a route prior to the contest, per Zack Rosenblatt of The Newark Star-Ledger. Shepard told Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com that he feels "super confident" that he'll suit up Monday in Kansas City, but two sessions remain before the Giants potentially tag him with a designation for Week 8. While Shepard seems to be closing in a return to action, fellow wide receivers Kenny Golladay (knee) and Kadarius Toney (ankle) were unable to practice Thursday.
Oct 28, 2021
Practicing Thursday
Shepard (hamstring) was present for Thursday's practice, Tom Rock of Newsday reports.
ANALYSIS
Thursday's injury report will reveal Shepard's participation level, but that fact that he's practicing is a positive indicator with regard to the wideout's chances of returning to action Monday night against Kansas City. Shepard was a game-time decision for this past Sunday's win over the Panthers, and was ultimately made inactive for the contest, but at this stage he appears to be trending in the right direction ahead of Week 8 action.
Oct 27, 2021
Warming up before practice
Shepard (hamstring) was in uniform and going through stretches before Wednesday's practice, Art Stapleton of The Bergen Record reports.
ANALYSIS
We'll have to wait until Thursday for an official injury report, but it sounds like Shepard, Kenny Golladay (knee) and Kadarius Toney (ankle) all are at least moving in the right direction, with each of the three -- plus RB Saquon Barkley (ankle) -- suiting up for stretches Wednesday. The Giants face the Chiefs on Monday, and it won't come as any surprise if multiple players end up being game-time decisions for the final contest of the week.
Oct 24, 2021
Sidelined Sunday
Shepard (hamstring) is listed as inactive Sunday against the Panthers, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard's status for Week 7 came down to a pregame workout, which apparently didn't yield the desired result. He'll thus miss his third game of the season, along with fellow inactives Saquon Barkley (ankle), Kenny Golladay (knee) and rookie first-round pick Kadarius Toney (ankle). The Giants' receiving corps Sunday will be composed of WRs Darius Slayton (hamstring), Dante Pettis, John Ross (hamstring), Collin Johnson and David Sills, along with TEs Evan Engram (calf) and Kyle Rudolph.
Oct 24, 2021
Status hinges on pregame warmup
Shepard (hamstring), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Panthers, will go through pregame tests before the Giants determine whether he'll be available to play, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
ANALYSIS
As expected, the Giants are viewing Shepard as a game-day decision after he was added to the injury report Thursday due to the hamstring issue that sidelined him Weeks 4 and 5. So long as he fares well in the workout, Shepard should avoid the inactive list, but it's unclear how effective he might be playing through the injury. Even if less than 100 percent, Shepard's presence would be a welcome one for a Giants pass-catching group that's expected to be missing Saquon Barkley (ankle), Kenny Golladay (knee) and Kadarius Toney (ankle).
Oct 22, 2021
Looks like game-time call
Giants head coach Joe Judge implied Shepard (hamstring) will be a game-time decision ahead of Sunday's contest against the Panthers, Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News reports. "We'll kind of move him around and see where he's at," Judge said Friday. "Some things that kind of accumulated throughout the course of a season. We'll see where he's at going into the game."
ANALYSIS
After returning from a two-game absence due to a hamstring injury to play 92 percent of the Giants' offensive snaps in last week's loss to the Rams, Shepard was added back to the practice report Thursday when the same injury cropped up again. He finished the week with a pair of limited practices to take a questionable designation into Sunday, but Shepard's status looks like it could come down to a gameday workout. If Shepard avoids the inactive list ahead of the 1 p.m. ET kickoff, he could be poised for a high-volume role in the passing attack with all of Kenny Golladay (knee), Kadarius Toney (ankle) and Saquon Barkley (ankle) already ruled out for Week 7.
Oct 22, 2021
Questionable to face Panthers
Shepard (hamstring) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against Carolina, Zack Rosenblatt of The Newark Star-Ledger reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard is one of four New York pass catchers listed as questionable, along with WRs Darius Slayton and John Ross and TE Evan Engram. Meanwhile, Kenny Golladay and Kadarius Toney have been ruled out, not to mention RB Saquon Barkley. It's a messy situation ahead of the 1:00 ET kickoff, but Shepard did manage limited practice participation Thursday and Friday, hinting that his return to the injury report isn't too serious. There's little doubt he'll see targets, if he avoids the inactive list and makes it through the game without an early exit.
Oct 22, 2021
Practicing Friday
Shepard (hamstring) is participating at Friday's practice, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard was added to the injury report Thursday as a limited participant, and it appears he's at minimum working in that capacity again Friday. It doesn't appear to be a serious issue, and the 28-year-old is on track to be available for Sunday's game against the Panthers.
Oct 21, 2021
Returns to injury report
Shepard (hamstring) was listed as a limited participant at Thursday's practice, Zack Rosenblatt of The Newark Star-Ledger reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard previously sat out games in Weeks 4 and 5 with a hamstring injury, but he returned to action last Sunday against the Rams and turned in a 10-76-0 line on 14 targets. The wideout's absence from the initial Week 7 practice report that was released Wednesday seemingly indicated that Shepard came out of that game unscathed, but his reappearance on Thursday's report suddenly makes his availability uncertain again as Sunday's game against the Panthers approaches. Given that top tight end Evan Engram (calf), top running back Saquon Barkley (ankle) and five of the Giants' top six receivers were either limited or non-participants in Thursday's session, there could be plenty of targets up for grabs Sunday.
Oct 17, 2021
Extremely busy in return
Shepard (hamstring) secured 10 of 14 targets for 76 yards in the Giants' 38-11 loss to the Rams on Sunday.
ANALYSIS
Making his return from a two-game absence due to a hamstring injury, Shepard wasn't eased back into action by any means. The Giants could ill afford to do so, considering Kenny Golladay (knee) and Darius Slayton (hamstring) were unavailable and Kadarius Toney exited the game after reinjuring his ankle. Shepard's reception, yardage and target totals all were team-high figures, with the first and last also serving as new high-water marks for the season. Shepard figures to continue to be consistently involved even if some or all of his teammates are able to return to action in a Week 7 home matchup against the Panthers.
Oct 15, 2021
Cleared for return
Shepard (hamstring) has no injury designation for Sunday's game against the Rams.
ANALYSIS
He returns to a tricky matchup after missing two games, as the Rams often use top cornerback Jalen Ramsey in the slot. Shepard never quite made it back to full practice participation, but he said Wednesday that he was ready to play, and he should see his targets with Kenny Golladay (knee) and Saquon Barkley (ankle) both sidelined. Kadarius Toney (ankle) is listed as questionable but expected to play, while Darius Slayton (hamstring) appears closer to truly questionable.
Oct 14, 2021
Stays limited Thursday
Shepard (hamstring) was limited at Thursday's practice, Dan Duggan of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard maintained his activity level from Wednesday, leaving him with just one more session to bump up to every drill. Even if he doesn't, though, coach Joe Judge told Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site on Thursday that the team has optimism that both Shepard and Darius Slayton will return from two-game absences after dealing with respective hamstring injuries. With Kenny Golladay slated to miss at least Sunday's contest against the Rams due to a hyperextended knee, Shepard could be New York's top wide receiver this weekend.
Oct 13, 2021
Limited Wednesday
Shepard (hamstring) practiced in a limited capacity Wednesday, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Both Shepard and Darius Slayton have missed back-to-back contests with respective hamstring injuries, but both players were back on the field Wednesday with a cap on their reps. After the session, Shepard relayed to Zack Rosenblatt of The Newark Star-Ledger that he'll be back this week, but the Giants likely will want him to be a full participant Thursday and/or Friday to prove where he stands in his recovery. Meanwhile, No. 1 wide receiver Kenny Golladay is expected to miss at least one game due to a hyperextended knee, and rookie Kadarius Toney injured his ankle this past Sunday in Dallas, so Shepard could serve as the team's de facto top WR this weekend if he gains clearance to play.
Oct 13, 2021
Return to practice, plans to play
Shepard (hamstring) returned to practice Wednesday, saying afterward that he's good to go and will be back in the lineup for Sunday's game against the Rams, Zack Rosenblatt of The Newark Star-Ledger reports.
ANALYSIS
Multiple Giants beat writers have also said Shepard is expected back this week. Additionally, Darius Slayton (hamstring) has a shot to return and Kadarius Toney (ankle) appears likely to play, whereas Kenny Golladay (knee) figures to miss at least one game. Assuming Shepard does return, it'll be interesting to see how the Giants split slot work between him and Toney, as they've been the team's two most productive pass catchers on a per-snap/route basis. The Week 6 matchup appears tricky for both, with Rams CB Jalen Ramsey playing nearly half his snaps in the slot this year.
Oct 8, 2021
Out another week
Shepard (hamstring) has been ruled out for Sunday against the Cowboys, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
The same goes for Darius Slayton, who injured his hamstring in the same game (Week 3) and more or less seems to be on the same timeline. Both wideouts were spotted around practice this week, but neither actually participated, instead remaining limited to side work. With Shepard and Slayton out again, the Giants figure to lean on Kadarius Toney and John Ross alongside Kenny Golladay in three-wide sets, though C.J. Board and Collin Johnson could also get some snaps. Shepard's next chance to play will be a Sunday game (Oct. 17) against the Rams in Week 6.
Oct 7, 2021
Logs no reps in practice
New York listed Shepard (hamstring) as a non-participant in Thursday's practice, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
According to Dan Duggan of The Athletic, Shepard was sporting full pads while working out on the side during the portion of Thursday's practice that was open to the media, with Tom Rock of Newsday noting that the 28-year-old looked to be further along in his recovery from a hamstring injury than fellow wideout Darius Slayton. Ultimately, both receivers went down as non-participants on the injury report for the second straight day and the fifth consecutive practice session overall. Though Shepard appears to be progressing, he'll likely need to upgrade to at least limited activity in Friday's practice to have a shot at avoid missing his second straight game Sunday in Dallas.
Oct 6, 2021
Limited to side work
Shepard (hamstring) didn't practice Wednesday, but he was able to do some work on a side field, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
The same goes for Darius Slayton, who also missed Week 4 after suffering a hamstring injury Week 3. Fellow wideouts Kenny Golladay and Kadarius Toney responded with their best games of the season in an overtime win over the Saints, with John Ross adding a 51-yard TD as the No. 3 receiver (four targets, 44 percent snap share). Shepard and Slayton seem to be making progress, but it isn't clear if either has a real shot to make it back for Sunday's big game against the Cowboys.
Oct 1, 2021
Won't play against Saints
Shepard (hamstring) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Saints, Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard hasn't been able to practice all week after hurting his hamstring in Week 3 against Atlanta. With fellow wide receiver Darius Slayton also sidelined by a hamstring injury, the Giants will likely lean on the likes of Kadarius Toney and Collin Johnson alongside Kenny Golladay against the unforgiving Saints secondary.
Oct 1, 2021
Not spotted again Friday
Shepard (hamstring) wasn't seen at Friday's practice, Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard hasn't practiced this week while dealing with the hamstring injury he suffered last weekend, and it appears he's headed for a third consecutive DNP on Friday. Darius Slayton (hamstring) also appeared to be absent, and neither player currently has an optimistic outlook for Sunday's game at New Orleans.
Sep 30, 2021
Not on practice field
Shepard (hamstring) didn't participate in Thursday's practice, Dan Duggan of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
According to Zack Rosenblatt of The Newark Star-Ledger, both Shepard and Darius Slayton (hamstring) were at the Giants' practice facility Thursday, but head coach Joe Judge suggested that both wideouts would merely work with trainers behind the scenes. With neither receiver having taken any reps through the first two practices of the week, both appear to be trending in the wrong direction for Sunday's game in New Orleans. Kadarius Toney is the most likely candidate to step in as the Giants' slot receiver if Shepard is ruled out.
Sep 29, 2021
Not at practice
Shepard (hamstring) and Darius Slayton (hamstring) aren't present for the open portion of Wednesday's practice, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Both were removed from Sunday's loss to Atlanta in the first half and didn't play at all in the second half. Kadarius Toney and Collin Johnson then get regular snaps alongside Kenny Golladay, who had entered the contest as a game-time decision due to a hip injury. The Giants also have C.J. Board on the roster, and John Ross (IR - hamstring) reportedly was present for Wednesday's practice. Shepard excelled prior to hurting his hamstring, with 16 catches for 207 yards and a TD over the first two weeks of the season.
Sep 26, 2021
Suffers hamstring injury
Shepard exited Sunday's game against the Falcons after suffering a right hamstring injury, Ralph Vacchiano of SportsNet New York reports.
ANALYSIS
With Darius Slayton also forced out of the contest with a hamstring issue, the Giants' Week 3 wideout depth is currently taxed, with neither player slated to return Sunday. Prior to his exit, Shepard hauled in two of his three targets for 16 yards.
Sep 17, 2021
Productive again in losing cause
Shepard brought in nine of 10 targets for 94 yards in the Giants' 30-29 loss to Washington on Thursday night. He also netted minus-9 yards on one rush attempt.
ANALYSIS
Four day after essentially serving as the offense's lone bright spot in a season-opening loss to the Broncos, Shepard was at it again Thursday, albeit once again in a losing effort. The veteran followed up the 7-113-1 Week 1 line with a nice bump in receptions. While New York's team prospects look bleak, the fact Shepard already has logged 19 targets through two games and has been highly efficient with them gives him plenty of fantasy momentum going into a Week 3 home matchup against the vulnerable Falcons a week from Sunday.
Sep 13, 2021
Big effort in loss
Shepard caught seven of nine targets for 113 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 27-13 loss to the Broncos.
ANALYSIS
He caught Daniel Jones' only TD pass on the afternoon, a 37-yard score in the second quarter that gave the Giants their only lead of the game. Shepard led the team in catches and targets, but a deep receiving corps that includes Kenny Golladay, Darius Slayton and 2021 first-round pick Kadarius Toney likely won't let him dominate Jones' attention too often. New York faces a quick turnaround before heading to Washington for a Thursday clash in Week 2.
Aug 29, 2021
Gets taste of preseason
Shepard caught five of six targets for 42 yards in Sunday's 22-20 preseason loss to the Patriots.
ANALYSIS
Shepard's only exhibition appearance saw him finish with a team-high tally in receptions. Now prepped for the regular season, Shepard will turn his focus to Week 1's matchup versus the Broncos, which will kick off his sixth year as a starter for the Giants.
Aug 22, 2021
In line to play preseason Week 3
Shepard is slated to play at least the first half of next Sunday's preseason finale against the Patriots, Paul Schwartz of the New York Post reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard hasn't seen game action so far during exhibition season, but he'll be out there next weekend with Daniel Jones, Darius Slayton and Evan Engram, at least. The question marks are Saquon Barkley (knee) and Kenny Golladay (hamstring). If both aren't cleared to suit up, Shepard would serve as the top pass-catching option for the Giants offense.
Apr 30, 2021
Gets more competition
The Giants used the 20th overall pick on wideout Kadarius Toney, making for an even more crowded receiving corps.
ANALYSIS
The Giants were already deep at the position with Kenny Golladay and Darius Slayton, but Toney's routes are likely to overlap even more with Shepard's. Moreover, Evan Engram and pass-catching tailback Saquon Barkley should get their share of looks too. There are suddenly a lot of mouths to feed in this offense.
Jan 3, 2021
Two TDs in starring effort
Shepard caught eight of 10 targets for 112 yards and a touchdown while adding 24 yards plus a touchdown on two carries during Sunday's 23-19 win over the Cowboys.
ANALYSIS
Shepard got off to an excellent start with a 23-yard rushing touchdown on the opening drive. He went on to lead the team in targets and receptions as he delivered a season-best yardage total while adding a 10-yard receiving score. Despite topping 60 receiving yards just three times prior to this one, Shepard certainly came through when it mattered the most and finishes the regular season with 656 yards in 12 appearances. He'll look to carry this season-ending form into the playoffs, if Washington loses to the Eagles on Sunday night.
Jan 1, 2021
Cleared to play
Shepard (rib) isn't on the injury report for Sunday's game against Dallas, Art Stapleton of The Bergen Record reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard will close out the regular season in a favorable matchup, after posting season highs for targets (12), catches (nine) and yards (77) in last week's loss to Baltimore. He missed the first Cowboys-Giants matchup back in Week 5, which was Darius Slayton's best game (eight catches for 129 yards) of the year. Shepard figures to spend a lot of time in the slot Sunday afternoon, as Golden Tate (calf) is doubtful to play.
Dec 31, 2020
Limited again Thursday
Shepard (rib) was a limited practice participant Thursday, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
The Giants' injury report was replicated for a second straight day, which left Golden Tate (calf) as a non-participant and tight end Evan Engram (calf) as limited. There's no reason to believe Shepard is in danger of missing Sunday's regular-season finale against the Cowboys, especially with a playoff berth on the line. Friday's practice report will give a sense of the wide receiver's ability to suit up this weekend.
Dec 30, 2020
Nursing rib injury
Shepard (ribs) was limited in practice Wednesday, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard paced the Giants in receiving by catching nine of 12 targets for 77 yards and a touchdown during last weekend's loss to the Ravens, but he appears to have picked up a rib injury in the process. New York requires a win over Dallas on Sunday for any chance of making the playoffs, so it wouldn't be surprising if Shepard's practice reps are being capped to better ensure his availability.
Dec 27, 2020
Team's top target in loss
Shepard caught nine of 12 targets for 77 yards and a touchdown during Sunday's 27-13 loss to the Ravens.
ANALYSIS
Shepard paced all Giants in receptions and yards while logging the team's lone receiving TD of yet another low-scoring effort. When on the field over 10 appearances this season, Shepard has attracted a workload of 7.2 targets per game. His 77 yards from Sunday represent a new season high, while a TD provides Shepard with his first in eight games. In Week 17, Shepard will have a chance to face off against the Cowboys for the first time this season, as he was residing on IR with a toe injury when the division rivals last met Oct. 11.
Dec 22, 2020
Catches four balls
Shepard caught four of his seven targets for 51 yards Sunday night against the Browns. He also had one carry that lost three yards.
ANALYSIS
The Giants offense was sluggish behind Colt McCoy, but Shepard is getting his looks at least. He's a low-end possession option for the season's final two weeks.
Dec 13, 2020
Quiet in Jones' return
Shepard caught three of five targets for 35 yards in Sunday's 26-7 loss to the Cardinals.
ANALYSIS
Shepard came up four receiving yards shy of Golden Tate's team-leading total, as quarterback Daniel Jones' return from a hamstring injury didn't do much to spark New York's struggling passing attack. After getting into a rhythm with five consecutive games of six-plus catches, Shepard has caught only four passes over his last two combined.
Dec 6, 2020
Struggles against Seattle
Shepard recorded only one reception on six targets for for 22 yards in Week 13 against Seattle. He also converted a two-point conversion.
ANALYSIS
Shepard was out-targeted by only Evan Engram, though he failed to turn that into any substantial production with Colt McCoy under center. His most meaningful contribution came on a successful two-point conversion, when he beat Shaquill Griffin to a pass in the corner of the end zone. While McCoy did not hesitate to look Shepard's way, Shepard may struggle to post numbers so long as Daniel Jones (hamstring) remains sidelined.
Dec 4, 2020
Gains clearance for game day
Shepard (toe/shoulder) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Seahawks, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard was a limited participant in practices Wednesday through Friday while managing the two injuries, but the Giants were evidently encouraged enough with his health to give him the green light heading into the weekend. Since returning from injured reserve Week 7, Shepard has quickly re-established a connection with quarterback Daniel Jones, hauling in 33 of 40 targets for 283 yards and a touchdown. However, with Jones (hamstring) listed as doubtful for the Week 13 contest, Shepard will now have to attempt to forge a connection with Colt McCoy, who is expected to start under center.
Dec 3, 2020
Has reps capped at practice
Shepard (toe/shoulder) was limited at Thursday's practice, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
For a second consecutive session, the Giants capped Shepard's practice reps, but there's been no indication his current health issues will impact his availability for Sunday's game in Seattle. Friday's injury report may clear up his status for Week 13.
Dec 2, 2020
Has practice reps capped
Shepard (toe/shoulder) was a limited practice participant Wednesday, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard has been a regular on Giants injury reports this season and even spent a four-week stretch on injured reserve. Since he returned to action Week 7, he's tallied at least six catches in five consecutive games on his way to a 33-283-1 line on 40 targets. Assuming he gets past his current health concerns, Shepard will look to exploit Seattle's 32nd-ranked pass defense Sunday.
Nov 29, 2020
Catches seven of eight targets
Shepard caught seven of eight targets for 64 yards during Sunday's 19-17 win over the Bengals.
ANALYSIS
Shepard led the team in receptions while finishing second in receiving yards and third in targets. His long gain went for just 16 yards as he finished under 10.0 yards per reception for the fifth straight game. Nevertheless, Shepard is averaging eight targets per game over that same span and continues to see his fair share of looks. Despite an inviting matchup against the Seahawks next Sunday, Shepard's fantasy value could be hindered if Daniel Jones (hamstring) is forced to miss the game through injury.
Nov 27, 2020
Cleared to face Cincinnati
Shepard (hip/toe) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Bengals, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official website reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard had the same routine prior to his Week 11 bye, listed as a limited participant in every practice Weeks 8-10. He didn't have an injury designation for any of those games, and he averaged 6.7 catches for 53.3 yards on 8.0 targets while playing at least 70 percent of offensive snaps each week. Shepard hasn't done much in terms of big plays or touchdowns the past couple years, but he always seems to see plenty of short passes.
Nov 26, 2020
Puts in limited practice
Shepard (hip/toe) was limited at Thursday's practice, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Despite having his practice reps capped in both sessions this week, Shepard is slated to play through his hip and toe issues in Sunday's game at Cincinnati. The best indication that'll come to fruition is for Shepard to avoid a designation on Friday's injury report.
Nov 25, 2020
Limited but should play
Shepard (hip/toe) was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice but is expected to suit up against the Bengals on Sunday, Art Stapleton of The Bergen Record reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard is officially listed with both hip and toe injuries on Wednesday's injury report, per Adam Caplan of SiriusXM NFL Radio, but it appears that he's still on track for Week 12. The 27-year-old wideout has put together four straight games with at least six catches while serving as Daniel Jones' preferred checkdown option.
Nov 15, 2020
Records six receptions
Shepard recorded six receptions on six targets for 47 yards in Week 10 against the Eagles.
ANALYSIS
Shepard served as Daniel Jones' checkdown option throughout the early portions of the game, though he did keep the chains moving by converting two first downs. His most explosive play of the contest came on the Giants' first offensive possession in the second half when he made a leaping 27-yard reception down the left sideline. Though Shepard hasn't posted flashy stat lines since returning from a toe injury in Week 7 against the Eagles, he now has at least six receptions in all four contests. He and the Giants head into their bye in Week 11, but Shepard should remain a key part of the team's game plan in Week 12 against the Bengals.
Nov 13, 2020
Cleared for Sunday
Shepard (toe/hip) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Eagles, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official website reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard was a limited practice participant throughout the week but never appeared in serious danger of missing Sunday's game. He caught six of eight targets for 59 yards and a touchdown against the Eagles three weeks ago, kicking off a three-game stretch with eight or more targets and six or more catches in every game. Shepard got more work from the slot last week with Golden Tate being a healthy scratch, and the Giants now have Tate listed as questionable with a knee injury.
Nov 12, 2020
Remains limited Thursday
Shepard (toe/hip) was limited at Thursday's practice, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Per usual, Shepard is logging an LP on the injury report, as he's done each of the previous three weeks. His production hasn't dipped in the slightest -- a 20-172-1 line on 26 targets across three games -- and he again could benefit from an absence from Golden Tate, who sustained a knee injury near the end of Thursday's session. Friday's injury report may provide more clarity on the state of the Giants' receiving corps.
Nov 11, 2020
Listed as limited
Shepard (toe/hip) was listed as a limited participant for Wednesday's walkthrough practice, Art Stapleton of The Bergen Record reports.
ANALYSIS
The Giants have listed Shepard as a limited participant in every practice since he came off injured reserve before the Week 7 loss to Philadelphia. He's seen at least 70 percent of snaps and eight targets in three straight games, averaging 6.7 catches for 57.3 yards during that stretch. There's no indication Shepard is in danger of missing a rematch with the Eagles on Sunday.
Nov 8, 2020
Team high in catches during win
Shepard secured six of his eight targets for 39 receiving yards during Sunday's 23-20 win against Washington. He also recorded an 18-yard rush.
ANALYSIS
Shepard has proven to be a high-floor option since returning from a toe injury that kept him on IR for four weeks, collecting six-plus receptions in each of his three most recent outings. The 27-year-old wideout has also averaged 57.3 receiving yards per game with one touchdown since his Week 7 return, after posting a reduced 38 yards per contest and being held scoreless over his two appearances of 2020. In the Giants' upcoming matchup, Shepard will face the same Philadelphia defense that he scored his lone TD of the year against Week 7.
Nov 6, 2020
Cleared for Sunday
Shepard (shoulder/toe) will play in Sunday's game at Washington, Art Stapleton of The Bergen Record reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard was a limited practice participant Wednesday through Friday, after handling 10 targets and 70 percent snap share in Monday's 25-23 loss to the Bucs. He should be geared up for his typical role this weekend, but he'll be facing a Washington defense that's limited opposing wide receivers to 132.7 receiving yards per game, third fewest in the league.
Nov 5, 2020
Limited again Thursday
Shepard (shoulder/toe) practiced in a limited capacity Thursday, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard has logged back-to-back capped sessions, likely for maintenance reasons due to the lingering effects of a turf toe injury and shoulder issue. Despite the health concerns, he's put up 14 receptions (on 18 targets) for 133 yards and one touchdown over the last two games. Friday's injury report likely will bring some clarity to Shepard's availability for Sunday's game in Washington.
Nov 4, 2020
Limited in practice Wednesday
Shepard (shoulder/toe) was listed as limited on Wednesday's practice report, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
After sitting out Weeks 3 through 6 due to a turf toe injury, Shepard has played back-to-back games while dealing with a shoulder issue. His production hasn't dipped at all -- 14 catches (on 18 targets) for 133 yards and one TD over the last two contests -- so he may be going through the motions before getting cleared by the Giants to suit up. In any case, Shepard's status bears watching as the weekend approaches.
Nov 3, 2020
Leads team in receiving
Shepard caught eight of 10 targets for 74 yards in Monday night's 25-23 loss to the Buccaneers.
ANALYSIS
Shepard overcame a couple injury concerns to lead the Giants in all major receiving categories. In the process, the veteran also put together his best totals in four appearances this season. When healthy, Shepard represents a needed security blanket for second-year quarterback Daniel Jones, as he's now hauled in 22 of 28 passes thrown his way. The duo will look to build on Monday's performance in a favorable Week 9 matchup against Washington.
Oct 31, 2020
Good to go
Shepard (shoulder) is absent from the Giants' injury report ahead of Monday's game against the Buccaneers, Art Stapleton of The Bergen Record reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard recorded six receptions for 59 yards and a touchdown against the Eagles last week following a four-game absence. However, he picked up a shoulder and toe injury in the process. Still, it looks like the team is confident in his ability to play through the issues, so look for him to take on his usual role assuming he avoids any setbacks.
Oct 31, 2020
Chance to play
Shepard (shoulder/toe) "has a chance to play" according to Joe Judge, Zack Rosenblatt of The Newark Star-Ledgerreports.
ANALYSIS
After being limited in practice all week due to both a shoulder and toe injury, Joe Judge says Shepard has a chance to play this Monday. Shepard returned after a four-game absence against the Eagles last week and was fairly effective (six catches, 59 yards and a touchdown), but his injury history is worrisome. Be on the lookout for further updates regarding the receiver's availability.
Oct 30, 2020
Limited at practice again
Shepard (shoulder/toe) was a limited practice participant Friday, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard returned from a four-game absence for last Thursday's loss to Philadelphia, hauling in six of eight targets for 59 yards and a touchdown. His ability to log limited practices Thursday and Friday suggests he's on track to play in Monday's game against Tampa Bay, but the wide receiver does have a rather worrisome injury history, beyond even the recent issues. Shepard also has a tricky matchup this week, facing a Bucs defense that's given up the ninth-fewest fantasy points to wide receivers. It remains to be seen if the Giants give him a game designation when they release their final injury report Saturday.
Oct 29, 2020
Limited Thursday
Shepard (shoulder/toe) was a limited practice participant Thursday, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
In his return to action last Thursday at Philadelphia from a four-game absence, Shepard reeled off six catches (on eight targets) for 59 yards and one touchdown. Considering he's listed with toe and shoulder issues, he seems to be dealing with lingering effects from his turf toe injury and likely banged up his shoulder as well. However, Shepard was on the field Thursday, which bodes well for his ability to gut out the health concerns ahead of Monday's game against the Buccaneers.
Oct 23, 2020
Finds end zone in return
Shepard (toe) secured six of eight targets for 59 yards and a touchdown in the Giants' 22-21 loss to the Eagles on Thursday night.
ANALYSIS
Making his return from a four-game absence due to a toe injury, Shepard ended up tying Evan Engram for the team lead in receptions while pacing the club in receiving yards. The 27-year-old wideout also came up with what appeared at the time to possibly be a game-clinching touchdown when he recorded a two-yard scoring grab with 6:17 remaining. Shepard now has a solid 18 targets over the three games he's suited up for this season, even more impressive when considering he only logged 15 snaps in Week 2 before suffering his injury. He'll now look to take advantage of the extra days of rest afforded to him before a Week 8 Monday night showdown against the Buccaneers on Nov. 2.
Oct 22, 2020
Returning to action Thursday
Shepard (toe) is listed as active Thursday at Philadelphia, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Activated from IR earlier Thursday, Shepard tested out his turf toe injury with some routes during pregame warmups, per Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News. Clearly, the activity was enough for the Giants to give Shepard the all-clear to play for the first time since Week 2. While it's unclear if he'll take on his normal workload, he'll likely work in three-wide sets with Darius Slayton and Golden Tate against an Eagles defense that has allowed the sixth-most catches (82) to wide receivers this season.
Oct 22, 2020
Comes off IR
The Giants activated Shepard (toe) off injured reserve Thursday, Michael Eisen of the team's official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard sustained a turf toe injury in the season opener and has spent the ensuing five weeks on IR. The Giants opened his window to return Tuesday, and after participating in practice the last two days, the team has opted to bring him back to the active roster. Mike Garafolo of NFL Network noted Shepard will be subject to a pregame workout before the Giants make a decision on his availability for Thursday's game at Philadelphia, but the road his been paved for his return to action.
Oct 22, 2020
Plans to try and play Thursday
Shepard (toe) remains on injured reserve, but he expects to be activated ahead of Thursday's game against the Eagles if he responds well to a workout earlier in the day, Mike Garafolo of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
The Giants have until 4 p.m. ET to make roster moves prior to the Week 7 matchup, so if Shepard isn't activated before then, he can safely be ruled out for the contest. Despite having only resumed practicing with the Giants since Tuesday, Shepard apparently is optimistic with how he's bounced back from his bout with turf toe, which sidelined him for the team's past four games. Because of his lack of recent game action and minimal practice time over the last month, Shepard could face some sort of restriction with his snap count if he suits up Thursday.
Oct 21, 2020
Potential game-time call
Shepard (toe) could be a game-time decision for Thursday's matchup with the Eagles, Art Stapleton of The Bergen Record reports.
ANALYSIS
Because he's still on injured reserve, Shepard isn't listed on the Monday-Wednesday practice reports and doesn't have a questionable/doubtful/out status for Thursday. For practical purposes, it's best to consider him questionable, after the Giants decided Tuesday to designate him for return from IR. The team needs to transfer Shepard to the active roster before 4:00 p.m. ET on Thursday in order for him to play in the upcoming game, though Stapleton suggests a final decision may not be made until late afternoon or evening after Shepard goes through a pregame workout. If the veteran receiver ultimately is ruled out, undrafted rookie Austin Mack will be the likely pick to join Darius Slayton and Golden Tate in three-wide formations. C.J. Board (concussion) has already been ruled out.
Oct 20, 2020
Window opens for return from IR
The Giants designated Shepard (toe) for return from IR on Tuesday, Art Stapleton of The Bergen Record reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard has worked on the side in recent practices as he works his way back from a turf toe injury, but his ability to take part in drills Tuesday indicates he's closing in on a return to action. The Giants have a short turnaround before suiting up again Thursday at Philadelphia, so they may be gauging Shepard's ability to contribute this week for the first time since Week 2. If Shepard isn't activated from injured reserve in time for Thursday's game, New York will continue to rely on Darius Slayton (foot) and Golden Tate as its top two wide receivers.
Oct 19, 2020
Could return Thursday
Shepard (toe) continues to practice on the side but could be activated from IR before Thursday's game versus the Eagles, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Raanan explains that Shepard likely will need to return for Tuesday's practice to have a chance to suit up Thursday. The fifth-year wideout hasn't played since Week 2 against the Bears. If he's able to return to the lineup, Shepard would be a starter in three-wide sets alongside Darius Slayton (foot) and Golden Tate. Through the first two games, Shepard caught eight of 10 targets for 76 yards.
Oct 15, 2020
Works on side Thursday
Shepard (toe) got in some light work on the side during Thursday's practice, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
While Shepard is eligible to take part in practice after spending three weeks on IR, he didn't participate as he draws closer to the final stages of his recovery from a turf toe injury. He doesn't seem likely to be activated in time for Sunday's game against Washington, which would make his next chance to play Week 7 in Philadelphia. In the meantime, Darius Slayton (foot) and Golden Tate will continue to earn the bulk of the targets among Giants wide receivers.
Oct 14, 2020
May not practice this week
The Giants may not designate Shepard (toe) to return from IR this week, Art Stapleton of The Bergen Record reports.
ANALYSIS
If the Giants aren't sure that Shepard will be ready to return by at least Week 7's Thursday night contest against the Eagles, Stapleton reports, it could make sense for the team to wait until Oct. 22 to officially open his 21-day practice window. Only designating Shepard to return after the Week 7's contest would allow the team a maximum timeframe to evaluate the 27-year-old, who has missed the last three games while dealing with turf toe.
Oct 12, 2020
Return to practice imminent
Coach Joe Judge expects Shepard (toe) to return to practice this week, indicating that he could play Sunday against Washington, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
If Shepard indeed returns to practice, it'll open the 21-day window for the wide receiver to be activated from IR. Judge explained that he wants to get Shepard moving in practice and see how he responds before making any decisions on his game status. If Shepard returns for Sunday's game, he's expected to start in three-wide sets even if he's still held back a bit by his injury.
Sep 23, 2020
Joins Saquon Barkley on IR
The Giants placed Shepard (toe) on injured reserve Wednesday, Michael Eisen of the team's official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard becomes the second Giants skill-position player to head to IR in the last two days, joining running back Saquon Barkley (knee), who will miss the remainder of the season with a torn ACL. Fortunately for Shepard, his bout with turf toe isn't nearly as dire, but he'll be forced to miss at least three games as a result of the injury. While Shepard is on the mend, Damion Ratley and C.J. Board will see added opportunities in three-receiver sets alongside starters Darius Slayton and Golden Tate, both of whom could also benefit from a slight uptick in targets.
Sep 23, 2020
Unlikely to play Week 3
The Giants don't anticipate Shepard (toe) being available to play in Sunday's game against the 49ers, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard exited the Giants' Week 2 loss to the Bears due to a suspected case of turf toe, playing just 15 first-half snaps before heading to the locker room. Though the Giants haven't commented on the severity of his injury, the team apparently doesn't have much early optimism that Shepard will be able to rally for Sunday's game. New York will presumably wait and see what Shepard can do in practices Wednesday through Friday before making an official call on his status, but if he's sidelined against San Francisco, C.J. Board would likely step into a starting role at receiver alongside Darius Slayton and Golden Tate.
Sep 21, 2020
Turf toe suspected
Shepard (toe) is believed to have suffered a turf toe injury during Sunday's 17-13 loss to the Bears, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard will have an MRI on Monday to officially determine the nature of his injury. Turf toe injuries can carry a variety of recovery timeframes depending on severity, with a Grade 2 issue usually ranging from several days or up to a few weeks. In the event that Shepard's injury is significant enough that he's forced to miss any time, Damion Ratley and C.J. Board stand to see increased reps behind top wideouts Darius Slayton and Golden Tate.
Sep 20, 2020
Ruled out Sunday
Shepard won't return to Sunday's contest in Chicago due to a toe injury, Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News reports.
ANALYSIS
Shepard got hurt late in the first half, limping to the sideline and reaching at his left foot before limping to the locker room, per Leonard. After attempting to run a route on the Giants' first play of the third quarter, Shepard again made a visit to the locker room, and the team ruled him out a short time later. He'll end Week 2 with two receptions (on four targets) for 29 yards and one six-yard carry. With Shepard out, the Giants will turn to Darius Slayton, Golden Tate, Damion Ratley and C.J. Board to handle WR reps.
Sep 20, 2020
Hurts toe Week 2
Shepard picked up a toe injury during Sunday's contest at Chicago.
ANALYSIS
The Giants already lost lead back Saquon Barkley to a knee injury, and now the team's No. 1 wide receiver has a health concern. The potential exists for Shepard to return, but in the meantime position mates Darius Slayton, Golden Tate, Damion Ratley and C.J. Board will hold down the fort.
Sep 14, 2020
Makes six grabs
Shepard caught all six of his targets for 47 yards in Monday night's 26-16 loss to the Steelers.
ANALYSIS
Shepard hauled in everything thrown his way besides an unsuccessful two-point conversion, but his production was limited to underneath routes for modest gains. In contrast, second-year wideout Darius Slayton again emerged as New York's top deep threat, catching six of nine targets for 102 yards and two scores. Although having Golden Tate sidelined Monday adds another factor to consider, Shepard's stock could still benefit from more vertical looks. In absence of those, he'll remain of most value in PPR leagues that reward his craftiness getting open for intermediate grabs.
Aug 18, 2020
Locked in for key role
Shepard, Golden Tate and Darius Slayton appear locked in as the Giants' top three wide receivers, Michael Eisen of the official team website reports.
ANALYSIS
Each of the three is a viable candidate to lead the team in targets, and the same can probably be said of tight end Evan Engram or even running back Saquon Barkley. Health has arguably become the biggest problem for Shepard, who has played 53 of a possible 64 games in his NFL career but does come with a worrisome history of migraines and concussions. There's also been some question about his effectiveness playing outside rather than the slot, though he seems to draw targets whenever he's on the field, averaging at least 4.1 catches per game in each of his four seasons with the Giants. Given the sturdy competition for targets, a big season from Shepard probably requires QB Daniel Jones taking a sizable step forward in his first year under head coach Joe Judge and OC Jason Garrett.
Dec 6, 2019
To have familiar face at QB
Shepard is expected to be on the receiving end of passes from Eli Manning and not Daniel Jones (ankle) on Monday at Philadelphia, Dan Benton of USA Today reports.
ANALYSIS
Jones emerged from Week 13 with a sore right ankle, but a subsequent MRI revealed a "moderate" high-ankle sprain. Considered "week-to-week" by coach Pat Shurmur, Jones is slated to be inactive Monday, yielding his starting spot to Manning. Shepard thus will have a familiar face leading the offense versus an Eagles defense that the wide receiver has feasted against in six matchups, notching 35 catches for 457 yards and four touchdowns, per the Giants' official site.