Giants TE Daniel Fells’ Career Likely Over Due To MRSA Infection

Ralph Vacchiano of the New York Daily News reports that even if Giants TE Daniel Fells, who is currently hospitalized with an MRSA infection, doesn’t lose his foot, it’s likely that his NFL career is over.

• A source tells Vacchiano that Fells has already had five surgeries to help him fight the infection, and he’s likely to require another one or two more before he’s released from the hospital.
• According to Vacchiano, Fells’ foot remains intact, but there has been enough damage done that his source said “I would be really surprised” if he ever plays football again.

Giants HC Tom Coughlin offered some positive news on Monday when he told reporters that he believes Fells will make a full recovery.

“Oh, absolutely,” Coughlin said. “That is my understanding.”

Ian Rapoport of NFL Media reported over the weekend that doctors were fighting to save Fells’ foot, which is at risk, considering the seriousness of this type of infection. Doctors are still hoping to avoid amputating his foot, but the fear with this type of infection is that it could get into the bone and travel into his blood.

The Giants have already placed Fells on season-ending injured reserve, but Rapoport says there’s are concerns about whether he’ll ever play in the NFL again.

The Buccaneers actually had an MRSA outbreak a few years ago that led to K Lawrence Tynes and G Carl Nicks both dealing with this infection.

Fells, 32, signed a one-year, $950,000 contract with the Giants back in March, so he would be a free agent next year, assuming he’s able to resume his NFL career.

Fells finished the year with six receptions for 60 yards receiving and no touchdowns.

We wish Fells the best with his recovery from a very serious situation.