John Michael Schmitz injury update: Latest news on the New York Giants center

John Michael Schmitz, starting center for the New York Giants, suffered an ankle injury during Friday night's final preseason game against the New York Jets.

The second-year center left the game after the team's first offensive drive, getting rolled up on a fourth-and-one play that the Giants couldn't convert.

After Schmitz was examined by training staff on the sidelines, he was ruled out of action due to an ankle injury.

The fact that Schmitz is out for the rest of the last preseason game does not necessarily say anything about the severity of his injury. The majority of the regular players were not on the field. Schmitz was the only scheduled starter on offense who played on Saturday night.

Still, it's a troubling story that has dominated Schmitz's sophomore season. He missed more than a week of training camp due to a shoulder injury.

Schmitz, a second-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, struggled last season like the rest of the offensive line. Among qualified centers, Schmitz's 30 total pressures and five sacks allowed were the fifth-most in the NFL, according to Pro Football Focus.

It is unclear how serious the injury is, and the Giants have about two weeks left before their season opener against the Minnesota Vikings.

If Schmitz were to be out, the experienced Greg Van Roten would likely step in as the starter. The Giants would also have to decide between Austin Schlottman and Jimmy Morrissey if they want to keep a third center before making roster cuts.

MORE GIANTS
Giants trade proposal sends former Day 2 pick to 49ers
NFL analyst criticizes Giants: “We will have a lot of trouble” achieving the lowest win percentage
How to watch the season finale Giants vs. Jets