Gerris

Wilkinson

Carlos Emmons’ neck injury could open the door for this third-round rookie to start at a high profile IDP spot. He’s worth a look in deeper dynasty leagues.

The team may want Wilkinson to be its weak-side ‘backer of the future but Mitchell’s presence likely means neither will be a consistent source of production. Mitchell may in fact be the favorite to open the year starting.

The initial fear after Wilkinson was carted off the field Monday was that he suffered a torn ligament, but the report has him out 3-6 weeks. The second-year player is battling with Kawika Mitchell for the starting weak linebacker spot, and this probably ends the battle.

The extent of the injury is unknown. Wilkinson, a third-round pick last year, has been backing up Kawika Mitchell at weak-side linebacker so far in camp.

Kawika Mitchell has missed too many assignments in New York’s two losses. Wilkinson, who has been sidelined with a knee sprain, will practice fully this week. At worst, he’s likely to rotate with Mitchell in Week 3.

Wilkinson is a candidate to start outside if Mathias Kiwanuka is needed to play defensive end against the Packers following Osi Umenyiora’s torn MCL.

Reuben Droughns will be the team’s fullback. Michael Strahan is active, but Justin Tuck will start for him.

Center Shaun O’Hara has the same injury. Both are uncertain to play against Tampa Bay next week, but O’Hara would seem to have the better chance. Gerris Wilkinson did play well in place of Mitchell late against New England.

Wilkinson is more experienced, but Giants coaches seemed to prefer Kehl’s aggressiveness when scrambling for weak-side help last year. Wilkinson has been an injury waiting to happen as a pro and Kehl is a better athlete.