The New York Giants are on the hunt for a temporary replacement for veteran kicker Graham Gano, who will be sidelined for "a few weeks" due to a hamstring injury, according to head coach Brian Daboll. It remains uncertain whether Gano will be placed on injured reserve, which would require him to miss a minimum of four weeks, or if the team will keep him available in case of a speedy recovery.

To address the temporary void left by Gano's absence, the Giants have scheduled a workout this week for free-agent kickers. Among the potential options are three kickers who were part of the team last season when Gano was on injured reserve with a knee injury: Cade York, Randy Bullock, and Mason Crosby. Alternatively, the Giants may choose to elevate rookie Jude McAtamney from the practice squad.

The decision not to promote McAtamney as an insurance policy for Sunday's game proved disastrous for the Giants. Gano, who was dealing with a groin injury, ended up hurting his hamstring on the first play of the game, leaving the team without a reliable kicker for field goals and PATs. Punter Jamie Gillan, who took over kicking duties, struggled and left crucial points off the board in a heartbreaking 21-18 loss to the Commanders.

While Coach Daboll attributed Gano's injury to bad luck, Dr. David Chao of Sports Injury Central, a former head physician for the Chargers, believes that injuries can "beget" other injuries. Gano's pregame warmups were laborious, even requiring him to have his groin wrapped. It is possible that compensating for his right groin injury while running to chase down a returner contributed to his subsequent hamstring injury.

Speaking after the game, Gano expressed frustration but remained determined to return as soon as possible. Although he had never dealt with a hamstring injury before, he was optimistic about his recovery prospects and emphasized his commitment to performing at his best.

The Giants now face the challenge of finding a reliable replacement for Gano while he recovers from his hamstring injury. The upcoming workout for free-agent kickers will help the team assess their options and make a decision that will ensure stability in the kicking game during Gano's absence.