New York Giants wide receiver and return specialist Gunner Olszewski will be out “for a little while,” as confirmed by coach Brian Daboll on Saturday. This development follows a groin injury he suffered during practice, according to NFL Network.
The 27-year-old playmaker is expected to miss an estimated two to four weeks. Olszewski has been a linchpin in punt and kickoff returns, with Isaiah McKenzie poised as his primary backup. During the Giants’ 28-10 preseason loss to the Houston Texans, McKenzie took over the majority of return duties.
The Giants acquired Olszewski in October after his release from the Pittsburgh Steelers. In his tenure with the Giants, he played 10 games, returning 23 punts for a total of 273 yards (11.9 yards per return), including a highlight-reel touchdown. Over 65 games spanning five seasons with the New England Patriots (2019-21), Steelers (2022-23), and Giants, Olszewski has returned 98 punts, boasting an 11.9-yard average and two touchdowns, alongside 41 kickoff returns with a 22-yard average.
Let’s not forget his remarkable performance in 2020 with the Patriots when he was selected to the All-Pro first team for leading the league with 346 punt return yards and a dazzling 17.3 average, including a punt return for a touchdown.
Olszewski, who has registered four career starts as a wide receiver, has also contributed 15 receptions for 180 yards and a touchdown. His dynamic abilities make him a valuable asset for any team looking to electrify their special teams unit.