How quickly life changes in the NFL.  Who would have thought before this weekend that when the New York Giants begin defense of their Super Bowl title against the Washington Redskins that Michael Strahan would be playing for the Giants and that Jason Taylor may not be lining up for the Redskins.

Taylor joined the rapidly growing list of star defensive ends facing knee injuries when he was hurt in a game over the weekend against Carolina.  Luckily for him, he seems to be the least severely hurt.  His sprained knew is expected to keep him out of action for 10 to 14 days making him a maybe for the season opener.

Meanwhile, Strahan may come out of retirement to help bail out the Giants (and for, say, $8 million) who are suddenly without Osi Umenyiora, who suffered a season-ending knee injury in an exhibition game against the Jets.

The third Pro Bowl DE looking at serious knee problems is the Chargers' Shawne Merriman who is considering a tough choice regarding season-ending surgery.