Jason Pierre-Paul has finger amputated, expected to play in '15

— -- New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul had his right index finger amputated Wednesday, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Medical records show the procedure took place Wednesday afternoon.

One source characterized the timeline for Pierre-Paul's return as being "sooner than people think" and said he still is expected to play this season. 

Pierre-Paul discussed his options with his medical team and family members, according to a source, and decided that the amputation was the best decision for his health and his career going forward.

Pierre-Paul suffered injuries to both of his hands in an accident involving fireworks last weekend in South Florida, sources told ESPN on Sunday.

Team officials flew down to Florida to check on him and try to determine how extensive his hand injuries were, but never made it out of the waiting room to see him, sources told Schefter. 

Pierre-Paul, 26, enjoyed one of his best seasons as a pro in 2014 and the Giants used the franchise tag on him.

Pierre-Paul is technically not under contract with the team as he has not yet signed his one-year franchise tender. The deadline for franchised players to agree to long-term contracts is July 15. If a deal can't be reached by that date, Pierre-Paul would have to play under his $14.8 million tender, unless the Giants decide to withdraw it.