Russell

Shepard

Shepard had been active for each of the Giants’ first three games, catching three passes. Shepard probably won’t be a candidate for return, but in receiver-desperate New York you never know.

Shepard played 184 offensive snaps last season, compiling a 10-188-2 line. His maing contributions come on special teams.

This is only notable with Odell Beckham also out. Evan Engram and Sterling Shepard are going to see heavy target shares this week.

Shepard is in danger of missing the Week 16 game against the Colts. With Odell Beckham (quad) also heading towards being out, the Giants will need Sterling Shepard and Evan Engram to step up behind Saquon Barkley.

With Jawill Davis (concussion) and Cody Latimer (hamstring, injured reserve) already ruled out, Giants will likely make a corresponding move even if Shepard suits up. If Shepard is ruled out, WR/KR Quadree Henderson or recent practice squad signee Corey Coleman could get the nod as the team’s third wideout behind Odell Beckham and Sterling Shepard.

Underutilized as a kind of H-back in the Tigers’ run-heavy offense, the explosive Shepard managed just 52 receptions for 473 yards and five touchdowns in three seasons in Baton Rouge. He did rush 84 times for 572 more yards (6.81 YPC) and four additional scores. The nation’s highest rated dual-threat QB recruit in 2008, Shepard is an incredible athlete with a 41 1/2" vertical and 11-foot-2 broad jump on record. The 6'1/185-pounder should have a big Combine and may turn out to be a better pro than college player.

Shepard originally had designs on entering the draft, but changed his mind after a recent meeting with Tigers coach Les Miles. It’s a good decision because LSU projects to field an improved passing game in 2012 and Shepard’s production to this point has been lackluster. “I would like to tell everyone that I had a great talk with my family and Coach Miles and I will be attending LSU for my senior season,” Shepard wrote on Twitter Friday.

Shepard was graded as a cornerback by some teams going into the draft, but is expected to compete for the Eagles’ No. 5 receiver job. With Riley Cooper and Arrelious Benn currently ahead of him, Shepard will need a strong camp to make the 53-man roster. His versatility could land him a spot on the practice squad.

A monster high school recruit, Shepard never found a home at LSU, rotating between receiver, running back, quarterback, and special teams with little production. He stands 6-foot-1, 196 and ran twin 4.46 forty times at the Tigers’ Pro Day, with a 38 1/2-inch vertical. They are defensive back measurables.

Per beat writer Jeff McLane, Shepard has “tailed off” following his hot start to camp. Philly Mag made a similar observation last week. The LSU product has just one catch for four yards through two preseason games.