One New York Giants star has sparked widespread debate among NFL fans after being spotted court-side at Madison Square Garden during the New York Knicks’ game against the Atlanta Hawks on Friday night. This appearance came just hours after the Giants officially ruled him out for their Week 18 regular-season finale against the Dallas Cowboys due to an “illness.”
Theo Johnson, a second-year player out of Penn State, did not participate in practice all week and was one of several Giants players listed on the injury report. The 24-year-old tight end has been a bright spot in an otherwise challenging 2025 season for the Giants, recording 45 receptions for 528 yards and five touchdowns.
His production has provided optimism for the team’s young offense, featuring quarterback Jaxson Dart, wide receiver Malik Nabers (before his season-ending ACL injury), and others.
Giants Star Seen At Knicks Game – Fans Erupt
Jan 2, 2026; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) looks to drive past Atlanta Hawks guard Vit Krejci (27) in the fourth quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images
Jan 2, 2026; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) looks to drive past Atlanta Hawks guard Vit Krejci (27) in the fourth quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images
During the Knicks’ matchup with the Hawks – which ended in a 111-99 loss for New York – Johnson was prominently featured on the MSG jumbotron. Reporter Jared Schwartz captured the moment, posting on social media: “Theo Johnson here at MSG for the #Knicks game. He’s out for Sunday’s #Giants game with an illness…”
Theo Johnson here at MSG for the #Knicks game
He’s out for Sunday’s #Giants game with an illness… pic.twitter.com/0PjjOBv2Qv
— Jared Schwartz (@jschwartz115) January 3, 2026
The sighting quickly went viral, raising questions about the severity of Johnson’s reported illness. While attending a public event doesn’t inherently violate any rules, the timing drew scrutiny, especially in a season where the Giants have faced accusations of tanking for a higher draft pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
The Giants, already eliminated from playoff contention, are positioned for a top pick. A loss to the Cowboys could secure or improve their spot, potentially as high as No. 1 or No. 2, depending on other results. Fans noted the irony, with some suggesting the “illness” designations for multiple players – including Johnson – might be strategic.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Backlash
NFL fans wasted no time expressing their frustration and sarcasm on social media. Reactions ranged from disbelief to accusations of poor discipline within the organization:
One fan quipped, “That’s an interesting way to treat an ‘illness.’”
Another joked, “Dude apparently can’t even catch a cold.”
Criticism extended to team leadership: “What discipline the @Giants running there. Starts at the top Mr. Mara.”
Tanking theories gained traction: “He understands the assignment. Committed to the tank!”
Others questioned the decision outright: “What? Can’t play on Sunday cause you’re sick but well enough to go to a sporting event???”
A sarcastic note: “Good to see Theo Johnson has recovered.”
The backlash highlighted a perceived “bad look” for both Johnson and the Giants, especially amid a disappointing season that saw head coach Brian Daboll fired after a 2-8 start.
Clarifications and Potential NFL Scrutiny
Nov 28, 2024; Arlington, Texas, USA; New York Giants tight end Theo Johnson (84) leaps over Dallas Cowboys cornerback DaRon Bland (26) during the fourth quarter at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Dieb-Imagn Images
Nov 28, 2024; Arlington, Texas, USA; New York Giants tight end Theo Johnson (84) leaps over Dallas Cowboys cornerback DaRon Bland (26) during the fourth quarter at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Dieb-Imagn Images
Further reports provided context to Johnson’s situation. The Giants issued a statement clarifying that Johnson’s condition is a non-contagious infection, not a flu or COVID-19 that would require quarantine. This explains why he could attend a public event without health risks to others.
Johnson himself addressed the speculation on Instagram, posting a story from MSG with the caption: “I am not sick.” This fueled additional discussion, as it appeared to challenge the official injury designation.
The NFL closely monitors injury reports for accuracy, with penalties for violations including fines and potential loss of draft picks. Recent examples, like the Baltimore Ravens’ fine for mislisting quarterback Lamar Jackson, underscore the league’s stance. As of now, neither the Giants nor the NFL has commented further, but the incident is likely under review.
Impact on the Giants’ Season Finale
Johnson’s absence adds to the Giants’ injury woes heading into Sunday’s game at MetLife Stadium. Other key players ruled out include wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson (rib injury), with several others dealing with illnesses or separate ailments. Earlier in the season, the team lost standout rookie running back Cam Skattebo to a season-ending ankle injury and Nabers to a torn ACL.
Despite the challenges, there’s long-term hope for the Giants’ offense. Johnson’s development, alongside emerging talents like Dart and a healthy supporting cast, could position the team for improvement in 2026 – potentially bolstered by a high draft selection.
What This Means for Theo Johnson and the Giants
As a sophomore tight end, Johnson has shown promise, earning praise for his reliability in the passing game. Incidents like this, however, can impact player perception and team optics. While the sighting may be innocuous given the non-contagious nature of his issue, it underscores the intense scrutiny faced by NFL players off the field.
Giants fans, frustrated with recent seasons, are divided: Some prioritize draft positioning for future success, while others demand full effort in every game. The controversy surrounding Johnson’s Knicks game appearance encapsulates the broader tensions within the fanbase as the 2025 season concludes.
This story continues to develop, with potential implications for injury report protocols and team strategy. For the latest New York Giants news, injury updates, and 2026 NFL Draft projections, stay tuned.
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