New York Giants Rumors: Eli Manning Says JPP’s Return is not Definite

Jason Pierre-Paul may or may not be returning to the New York Giants at the start of the season, according to quarterback Eli Manning.

"We'll see how everything goes and when he (Pierre-Paul) can get back to playing," Manning said. "Still a lot of uncertainty. We've got to focus on just getting ready for the Cowboys and go out and do our job and when he can come back and join us that'll be great."

The Giants medical staff was finally able to examine Pierre-Paul's injured hand on Monday. The 26-year-old defensive end had his right index finger amputated due to a fireworks accident during the Fourth of July weekend.

After the examination, the team reportedly has a better idea of when and how long Pierre-Paul can play this season. While many people are getting hyped up about Pierre-Paul's return for the season opener, Manning continues to remind everyone that nothing is set in stone.

"I think you just plan and prepare as if he won't be out there," Manning said. "If he can get back and practice this week? Great. If not, we'll just keep going forward and wait until he gets back."

Head coach Tom Coughlin did not rule out the possibility of Pierre-Paul playing in the first game of the season. Jordan Raanan of NJ.com reported that Pierre-Paul is ready to play.

Raanan wrote:

"It's believed that Pierre-Paul probably could return to play the season opener this week against the Dallas Cowboys. It's more likely he'll be ready to play in a week or two.... The Giants have never intended to part ways with Pierre-Paul throughout this process. He's too valuable a piece to their defense. They locker room is ready to embrace him with open arms."

Pierre-Paul has not signed the franchise tag offer, which is a one-year deal worth $14.8 million. Rumors were claiming that Pierre-Paul wanted to sign the tender after the Giants promise that they will not put him on the non-football injury (NFL) list. If he is placed on this list, he will not get paid for games that he misses. In order to be on the list, the team must sit out the player for at least six games.

The Giants will be playing the Dallas Cowboys on Sept. 13 at 8:30 p.m. ET.