The prognosis for Jason Pierre-Paul is worse than expected. After initial reports suggested Pierre-Paul only suffered minor burns and nerve damage while setting off fireworks on July 4th, it’s now being reported that he lost a finger.
According to ESPN, Pierre-Paul of the New York Giants had to have his finger amputated. The Giants only discovered the news after it was reported by ESPN. Several team officials went to the South Florida hospital to visit Pierre-Paul, but they were turned away by his family.
Pierre-Paul was offered a contract worth $14.5 million by the Giants, but he didn’t sign the offer sheet before the injury. The Giants could possibly rescind the offer and allow Pierre-Paul to become a free agent. It’s possible that he could play in the NFL again, but he would likely have to take a pay cut until he proves to be the same athlete that earned him All-Pro status before the accident.
Pierre-Paul isn’t the only NFL player to lose a finger on July 4th. While setting off fireworks, C.J. Wilson, 25, injured his hand and lost two fingers. The defensive back for the Tampa Bucs was visiting family in Lincolnton, North Carolina when the accident occurred.
NFL players who have continued to play after losing a finger include Ronnie Lott, Rashad Johnon, and Whitney Mercilus.
