David Mayo

Giants inebacker David Mayo has a torn meniscus in his left knee and is scheduled to undergo surgery Thursday, according to the team's official website.

Fantasy Impact

Mayo is a reserve linebacker who emerged as a key contributor for the Giants last season, recording 82 tackles, two sacks, and a recovered fumble while playing in all 16 games. He is likely headed for injured reserve.

David Mayo received his first start vs. Chicago in place of Luke Kueckly and only recorded three stops in the loss. It had been a favorable matchup for Mayo vs. the Chicago run game coming into Week 7 as Chicago ranked sixth in points allowed to linebackers.

Fantasy Impact

The defense as a whole did well keeping Chicago's Jordan Howard held to 65 total yards. But it seems Mayo had little to do with that. Mayo struggled in Week 6 after taking over for Kuechly and now in Week 7, he didn't produce much. With Thomas Davis and Shaq Thompson the more relevant players, while Kuechly is out, fantasy owners should be looking for a better weekly play until Kuechly returns. As of this past Saturday, there were favorable reports that Kuechley could return in week 8 vs. Tampa Bay. Coach Riveria stated Kuechly would again see a doctor on Monday and that he was making good progress in the NFL's concussion protocol. With Mayo's performance, Carolina may not side so much with caution and insert Kuechly back in the lineup as soon as he is available.

LB David Mayo has secured his position as the primary backup following the final preseason game with Pittsburgh. After A.J. Klein signed this off-season with New Orleans the Panthers were looking for Mayo to step up into the vacated role. He finished his audition with a nice interception and return early in the fourth preseason contest Thursday.

Fantasy Impact

Fantasy owners will want to take note of Mayes situation as the primary back up with Luke Kuechely struggling with concussions for the past two seasons. There could also be some future upside for owning Mayo as LB Davis Thomas is currently entering his 13 seasons in the league and will be 35 years old next March. Thomas will reportedly have a reduced role this season giving way to the much younger Shaq Thompson. Mayo could find himself in a starting role in 2018 if Thomas retires or the Panthers decide to move forward with a younger player like Mayo.