Johnson on IR

Tight end Darcy Johnson, inactive for last week's game, was placed on injured reserve with a shoulder injury and replaced by Scott Chandler, a tight end the Giants picked up from the Cowboys' practice squad.

The 6-7, 265-pound Chandler was originally a fourth-round pick of the Chargers in 2007, but has played in only one NFL game.

Johnson never did hit the injury report, but he said a problem with his right shoulder occurred during the Kansas City game. A recent MRI showed more damage than suspected, even though he continued practicing and playing.

Meanwhile, WR Hakeem Nicks said the hamstring injury that kept him out of the second half last week was improved, and he expects to play Sunday. In fact, he said he had intended to return to the game, but was kept on the sideline by the medical staff.

Aaron Ross said an MRI taken yesterday revealed no further damage to the thrice-injured left hamstring that kept him out of the Washington game. But he said "it hasn't gone away" either.

As for RT Kareem McKenzie's sprained left knee, he appeared to be limping slightly today, though he typically said, "I'll make it. I'm all right." And LG Rich Seubert was silent on his injured right knee.

The team will have a jog-through this afternoon, but won't get down to heavy workouts until tomorrow, when the status of all the injured will become clearer.

EP