Giants receiver Sterling Shepard said earlier this week that he was looking forward to taking the next step in the Giants' offense.

Those plans will have to go on hold for the moment, though, as the team announced on Thursday that Shepard fractured his thumb.

The fourth-year pro will be evaluated on a week-to-week basis, according to the Giants. Sources have told SNY's Ralph Vacchiano that the team is hopeful Shepard will be ready by Week 1, though he'll likely miss the entire preseason.

Shepard has been a highly productive piece of the Giants offense over his first three seasons, racking up 190 catches for 2,286 yards and 14 touchdowns.

Of course, with the departure of Odell Beckham Jr., all eyes were on Shepard heading into camp, and he said earlier this week that he was aware of the added external pressure.

"I know a little bit is going to be added on my plate," Shepard said. "But I feel like I've been groomed and I've been prepared for this moment with Odell going out the past two seasons. I think I've just been groomed for that position. I'm really just focused on the guys we have in the locker room and the guys we have in the receiver room.

"I'm the longest-tenured guy in the room, so I gotta make sure all the guys are in line."

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