Giants DC Spagnuolo talks about JPP's potential
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Giants defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo talks about the potential return of Jason Pierre-Paul. Al Bello Getty Images
New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul is close to returning to the field after practicing in full for a second straight day on Thursday. Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo talked to Giants reporters about Pierre-Paul's return for the first time on Thursday. He's cautiously optimistic.
"He looks pretty good," Spagnuolo said to reporters. "I just got done watching the (practice) tape in there, and I remember one play, when the ball is snapped, he's off the ball pretty good. His takeoff looks real good, too.
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"So when you asked, 'How's he doing,' that looks impressive. But look, he's got a long way to go, it's hard to take that much time off and be at the level that you think he can play. But we're optimistic."
Pierre-Paul's potential return has been buzzing and many have suggested that he can save a Giants pass defense that has totaled just 9 sacks in eight games. Spagnuolo cautioned against Pierre-Paul being an immediate solution to all of the Giants' issues on defense.
"I think that's a lot to ask," Spagnuolo said. "Look it, defensive football is a team game, it's 11 guys, it's not one guy. I wouldn't put that on a guy."
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A decision on if Pierre-Paul will play this Sunday at Tampa Bay has not been announced yet. Stay tuned for any further updates.