New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul has revealed shocking new photos of his mangled right hand in an exclusive interview with Sports Illustrated.
Distributed to SI by Pierre-Paul, the disturbing images show the devastating aftermath of a terrible July 4th fireworks accident that blew off one of his fingers, severely injured his thumb and another finger and left lifetime-lasting burns to his palm.
Warning: Photos below are graphic in nature.
Photo credit: Sports Illustrated
Photo credit: Sports Illustrated
Photo credit: Sports Illustrated
According to Pierre-Paul’s account, the defensive end was attempting to ignite a pesky group of fireworks when the explosives suddenly went off with him in close proximity. The resulting damage to his right hand was massive.
“I’m looking at my [right] hand and I’m seeing every ligament,” he said. “You only see this stuff in the movies.”
Doctors originally thought the injury would end his NFL career. Eventually transported to Miami during the holiday weekend, Pierre-Paul and his mutilated hand were operated on by orthopedic surgeon Patrick Owens. The procedures helped save his future in football.
After returning to the Giants for eight games last season, Pierre-Paul signed a one-year deal to stay in New York for the 2016 season. If he can prove capable of playing with just one good hand, another huge contract could be on the horizon next offseason.