AP

It wasn’t so long ago that Giants fans thought this season was sunk before it even started.

Kevin Boss left via free agency. Stalwart offensive linemen were cut. Injuries had ravaged the secondary in the preseason.

The news that made the most noise in New York, however, was the loss of slot receiver Steve Smith to the rival Eagles. Smith was the one that got away, the team leader that the Giants were too cheap to pay. Griping about Smith continued into the season.

Fast forward two months. The Giants are on top of the NFC East by two games at 5-2. Smith is a total non-factor in Philadelphia as he struggles to get over his knee surgery, just like the Giants anticipated.

Sheil Kapadia of Philly.com notes that Smith suited up, but didn’t play a single snap in Philly’s win over the Cowboys. Riley Cooper played eight snaps. Smith got ready for the season opener, but has only played 10 snaps the last three games.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Smith was available at the trading deadline. The Eagles have paid him $4 million for five catches so far. Meanwhile, only the Packers have thrown for more yards-per-attempt this year than the Giants.

It’s worth noting Smith only signed a one-year deal in Philadelphia. So the Giants could make their fans happy and bring back Smith next season, when he’s actually healthy.