Jason Pierre-Paul would play Sunday, if the decision was his

New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul speaks to reporters for the first time since injuring his hand, during NFL football practice, Friday, Oct. 30, 2015, in East Rutherford, N.J. Pierre-Paul hurt his hand while blowing up fireworks during July 4th celebrations. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez) New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul speaks to reporters for the first time since injuring his hand, during NFL football practice, Friday, Oct. 30, 2015, in East Rutherford, N.J. Pierre-Paul hurt his hand while blowing up fireworks during July 4th celebrations. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

By Associated Press November 4, 2015 1 min read

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) – New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul seemingly is ready to play Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

All he has to do is convince the Giants’ medical staff to let him play with the right hand that he injured in a fireworks accident on July 4.

Pierre-Paul picked up his work load at practice Wednesday and seemed confident he would be able to return to his Pro Bowl form. He lost his index finger in the accident and had a couple of other fingers damaged.

A somewhat cocky Pierre-Paul said he has been able to shed blockers and grab opponents since rejoining the team last week and practicing for the first time since being injured. He expects opponents to test him and he vows to be ready.

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