New York Giants outside linebacker Olivier Vernon's status for Week 1 is unclear after he suffered a sprained ankle Sunday, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.
Vernon was carted off the practice field, so there was initial concern that the injury was more serious, but X-rays came back negative, Rapoport added.
The key part of the injury is a deep bruise on the pass-rusher's ankle, and the team is waiting to see how he responds over the next couple of days before giving the green light to return to practice.
Vernon is a key part of the Giants' new 3-4 defense under James Bettcher, as he's shifting from defensive end to outside linebacker. The former third-round pick accumulated seven sacks and two forced fumbles in 2017.
New York will open its season Sept. 9 versus the Jacksonville Jaguars.
