According to Ralph Vacchiano of the NY Daily News, the Giants have placed middle linebacker Antonio Pierce on the IR, ending his season.

This is not a huge surprise, given his injury (bulging disc in his neck). Still, Pierce was shocked by the news.

Vacchiano also states that the Giants hope former fifth round pick Jonathan Goff will eventually take over as the starter at middle linebacker. With Pierce out, Goff will now get his chance to show what he can do in the NFL. If he performs well, the Giants may decide to cut ties with Pierce, who is owed $4.75 million next season.

Overall, this is a blow to the Giants’ defense. Pierce is slow and has regressed the last few years, but he is/was still a big part of the defense.

Still, I can’t help but be excited to see what kind of player Goff is given some playing time. He looked great in the preseason, and maybe he can give this defense a shot in the arm.