#Xavier McKinney’s fractured foot the latest hit to ravaged Giants secondary

The Giants’ already-decimated secondary took another major hit Wednesday when it was revealed that rookie and projected starting free safety Xavier McKinney has suffered a fractured left foot that will require surgery.

McKinney, the Giants’ second-round draft pick (36th overall) out of Alabama, was slated to start alongside strong safety Jabrill Peppers in a DB unit already without starting corner DeAndre Baker, who is on the exempt list after being charged with four felonies for an offseason armed robbery in Florida. Sam Beal also is absent after opting out of the COVID-affected 2020 season.

McKinney, 22, was scheduled to undergo surgery later Wednesday at the Hospital for Special Surgery by foot specialist Dr. Martin O’Malley.

McKinney’s absence likely will create an opportunity for second-year defensive back Julian Love.

Inside linebacker David Mayo also has a torn meniscus in his left knee and is scheduled to undergo surgery Thursday. The six-year NFL veteran appeared in all 16 games (13 starts) in his first season with the Giants in 2019, registering a career-best 80 tackles (50 solo) and his first two career sacks.