Updated Monday, Sept. 21 @ 10:39 a.m. ET

There was a lot of talk about first-round WR Hakeem Nicks' move up the totem pole late in the preseason. Tom Coughlin said Nicks could play a crucial role, noting that he had "earned it." Put that talk on hold. Nicks suffered a sprained foot in Week One and will be out at least through Week Three. Don't be surprised if another rookie makes the most of his opportunity. Ramses Barden, the intriguing third-rounder, opened eyes early in camp but was a victim of depth and still viewed as a bit raw. But he could carve out a niche that only he appears able to execute. At 6-foot-6, no other Giants receiver has Barden's size or reach, and he could turn into a red-zone factor, especially if teams choose to gang up on the run or double TE Kevin Boss. The Giants have only 18 points (six field goals) on eight red-zone visits in two games this season and know they must improve there.

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