New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul's Fourth of July celebration has blown up in his face. According to reports, JPP severely injured his hand celebrating Independence Day with a U-Haul truck full of fireworks and could have ruined his chances of signing a long-term deal.
Pierre-Paul was franchise-tagged this offseason at $14.1 million, but had yet to sign it. He wanted to negotiate a long-term extension, and had a $60 million offer on the table. Per NFL.com, that offer has been withdrawn by the Giants in light of his injury.
It was initially reported that Pierre-Paul had sustained severe burns and was partially missing some fingers. Those reports were exaggerated, but he is said to have badly burned his hand, and might have nerve damage in one of his fingers. Still, the injuries are not believed to be career-threatening.
Pierre-Paul was not expected to accept the Giants' offer anyway, but now JPP will have to play well on the franchise tender in order to make himself marketable again. After an incredible 16.5-sack campaign in 2011, Pierre-Paul had two substandard seasons that put his Giants career in jeopardy. He rebounded in 2014, racking up 12.5 sacks and 77 total tackles. He also registered six pass defenses, a high number for a defensive lineman. He forced three fumbles, and made 16 starts for the first time in his career.
So far the Giants' only comment has been to say "Our first concern is for JPP's well-being."
[NFL.com]
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