Jude McAtamney Set for NFL Debut with New York Giants Against Washington

Jude McAtamney, previously a Derry U-20 GAA player, is scheduled to make his inaugural NFL appearance for the New York Giants this Sunday. The Giants confirmed on Friday that their current starting kicker, Greg Joseph, would not participate in Sunday’s game against the Washington Commanders, citing an abdomen injury. The absence of punter Jamie Gillan further elevated the probability of Swatragh native McAtamney making his competitive NFL debut. His promotion to the active roster for the upcoming weekend’s game was subsequently confirmed on Saturday. The 24-year-old, who holds a position on the Giants’ practice squad, demonstrated strong performance this summer and participated in pre-season matchups after joining the organization as a free agent. Under the provisions of the International Player Pathway, he qualifies for a practice squad position for a duration of three seasons. Joseph had been brought in to substitute Graham Gano, who sustained an aggravated hamstring injury during a 21-18 defeat to Washington in September; however, Joseph is now anticipated to be sidelined for a minimum of four games due to his own injury. “I’m just preparing every week to be ready, even if I’m not playing,” McAtamney stated to BBC Sport NI in New York during October. He further added, “Every week is a learning opportunity, and I feel like I’m learning and getting better as time goes on.”