If the Giants are going to avoid a winless season at home, they may have to do so shorthanded.
Top receiver Malik Nabers, top running back Tyrone Tracy Jr., leading tackler Micah McFadden and starting center John Michael Schmitz all didn’t practice Thursday.
Greg Van Roten (knee) practiced in a limited capacity at center in place of Schmitz.
Coach Brian Daboll wasn’t ready to rule them out of the game against the Colts at MetLife Stadium, but there is obviously the possibility they could all be sidelined.
Nabers described his status as a game-time decision.
He was hopeful to practice Friday.
“We’ll see where they’re at tomorrow,” Daboll said.
Defensive backs Raheem Layne (knee), Greg Stroman (shoulder/shin), and Dee Williams (toe) were also held out.
Quarterback Drew Lock (right shoulder), offensive lineman Jermaine Eluemunor (wrist) and defensive lineman Cory Durden (shoulder) were limited Thursday.
Rookie offensive lineman Jake Kubas stood out in his first NFL start against the Falcons.
He allowed just one quarterback pressure at left guard and was the Giants’ top-graded offensive lineman.
“Jake was a bright spot for me,” offensive coordinator Mike Kafka said. “I think seeing a young guy step in, he played physical. Sure, there were things he can get better at, plays that maybe he missed here or there. But, overall, I thought it was a big step forward for him.”
Kubas went undrafted out of North Dakota State.
The Giants picked him up in May.
The Colts could be without starting quarterback Anthony Richardson (back/foot) on Sunday.
He didn’t practice Thursday, though ESPN reported the Colts were optimistic he would play.
If Richardson can’t go, Joe Flacco would start under center.
The Colts have won two of their last three games and remain alive for a playoff spot at 7-8, though they need to win their last two games and get help.