Giants not likely to activate Kayvon Thibodeaux off IL despite being eligible

Giants pass rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux is not expected to be activated off of injured reserve in time to play Sunday against the Panthers, head coach Brian Daboll said. Thibodeaux has missed the requisite four games after undergoing wrist surgery to repair a broken scaphoid bone and is eligible to return this week.By playing it safe, the Giants give Thibodeaux an extra cushion because next week is a bye before the Nov.

24 game against the Buccaneers. Thibodeaux’s fill-in, Azeez Ojulari, has capitalized on his opportunity, with five sacks in the last four games.He is a candidate to be traded by Tuesday’s deadline. If Ojulari is dealt, it likely would mean the Giants getting by with special teamer Tomon Fox as a starting outside linebacker for one game. Daboll said that kicker Graham Gano, who has missed six games, and punter Jamie Gillan, who has missed four, have a “chance” to play. Receiver Darius Slayton is in the concussion protocol but can travel to Germany if he is on pace to be cleared, Daboll said.

Punt returner Ihmir Smith-Marsette cleared the concussion protocol. ...