Giants’ Key Player Returns Against Chiefs
On Sunday night, the Giants reintroduced a critical player for their matchup against the Chiefs.
However, it was only a limited appearance.
Former All-Pro left tackle Andrew Thomas made his return after missing significant time, playing for the first time since week six of last season. The game ended in a 22-9 loss to the Chiefs.
Thomas participated in roughly 25 plays during the game, with Giants coach Brian Daboll indicating that this was part of the plan.
Rookie Marcus Mbou filled in for the majority of the game.
“It was just a game plan,” Thomas explained. “Sure, I was a bit rusty, but it felt great to be back. I really missed football. I’m making progress, though.” He went on to express, “But that was the plan.”
In late October, Thomas underwent Lisfranc surgery and later had another procedure in the spring to remove screws from his foot.
Initially listed as questionable for the first two weeks of the season, Thomas managed a substantial number of practice reps leading up to the game, which led to his upgrade for the matchup with the Chiefs.
The signing of James Hudson III did not work out well, as he struggled in last week’s overtime loss to the Cowboys, racking up four penalties on the opening drive before being benched in favor of Mbou, the team’s fifth-round pick from Purdue.
The Giants have only won three out of the 20 games where Thomas has been sidelined over the past three seasons due to various hamstring and foot injuries. Previously, during that stretch, they sported a challenging record of 6-10.
It’s crucial for the Giants to keep Thomas healthy for the sake of protecting veteran quarterback Russell Wilson or rookie Jackson Dart.
“We aimed to give him 25 plays, and that’s what we did,” Daboll said, adding, “My understanding is that he’s fine. Now it’s about taking the next step.”
Offensive lineman Evan Neal, the seventh overall pick in the 2022 draft, remained inactive for a third consecutive game.
Other inactive players included Demetrius Flanigan-Fowles (calf), Chauncy Golston (ankle), Darius Musau (concussion/eye), Rakeem Nunez-Roches (foot), Thomas Fidone II, and third-string quarterback Jameis Winston.
Wide receiver Xavier Worthy (shoulder) was another notable inactive player for the Chiefs.
