New York Giants running back Shane Vereen tore his triceps in Sunday's 29-27 loss to the Washington Redskins and is expected to be out for the remainder of the season.
Vereen started Sunday in place of Rashad Jennings and finished the game despite suffering the injury earlier in the contest. An intercepted pass in the final seconds was intended for Vereen.
The Giants originally called it a season-ending injury on Monday, then backed off in the hope that Vereen could return from injured reserve late this season, if that is still an option.
"I think he was playing [with] it for a significant amount of time," coach Ben McAdoo said of Vereen's injury. "I know he's a tough player, has a warrior mindset. Wish him a speedy recovery."
It's a substantial loss for the Giants. Vereen leads the team in rushing with 147 yards on 31 carries this season and is known for his receiving prowess out of the backfield. He had eight receptions in the first three games.
"Shane is a tremendous football player and our thoughts go to him with that tough injury," McAdoo said. "I feel for the player. He's a good football player."
The Giants intend to fill the void "by committee." Jennings, who has a thumb injury, thought he could've played on Sunday and Orleans Darkwa ran well (5.3 yards per carry). Veteran Bobby Rainey and rookie Paul Perkins could also see increased roles.
Rainey could see the most significant jump in playing time because his skill set is the most similar to Vereen's. The Giants used Vereen as their pass-catching back.
Vereen signed a three-year, $12.35 million deal with the Giants last offseason. He's signed through the 2017 season.
Vereen, 27, posted career-highs with 59 receptions for 495 yards and four touchdowns in his first season with the Giants.