The Sports Xchange

New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul has told his position coach that he will be back when he feels right.

Defensive line coach Robert Nunn said he has been exchanging text messages with Pierre-Paul, who had a finger amputated after a Fourth of July fireworks accident and remains away from the team.

“It was a tough situation to be in; so, when I talk to him, we talk more about where he is from a mental standpoint,” Nunn said. “I texted him back and forth, just to let him know that we’re here for him. Whatever he needs, we’re here for him. And his response has been: ‘Coach, I’m good, I want to get myself right, and I’ll be back.'”

Meanwhile, Nunn is preparing to play without Pierre-Paul, the former first-round pick who led the Giants with 12.5 sacks last season.

Robert Ayers, George Selvie, Cullen Jenkins, Damontre Moore and Kerry Wynn are all battling for roster spots and playing time at defensive end.

“We’re going on, and he’ll be here when he’ll be here,” Nunn said, “and those other guys have a great opportunity.”