The peanut butter and jelly sandwich became popular around 125 years ago, and, well, it feels like just as long since the Giants had an offensive line duo as solid as their current tackles, Andrew Thomas and Jermaine El Emnor, who are helping to protect rookie quarterback Jackson Dart.
Sure, that might be a stretch, but it has definitely been a while—about 14 years—since a duo provided this level of support. El Emnor recently expressed his admiration for Thomas, stating, “Everyone knows who AT is. I want the same recognition. I believe I can be a Pro Bowler and All-Pro, and if I achieve that, Dart will thrive.”
Since returning from an injury in Week 3, Thomas is considered one of the top linemen in the NFL. ESPN reports he boasts an impressive pass block win percentage of 96, with zero sacks allowed, which is quite a feat.
“We have areas to improve, particularly in the run game, but that takes time,” said a humble Thomas. “I’m getting acclimated again after missing training camp and adjusting to playing frequently.”
The Giants’ recent performance against the Broncos speaks volumes about their current state. They’ve only allowed two sacks, two quarterback hits, and seven hurries, per Pro Football Focus.
Offensive coordinator Mike Kafka praised them, noting, “Jermain and AT are performing exceptionally well right now.” Ahead of their game against the Eagles, who have a formidable duo in Lane Johnson and Jordan Mailata, discussions about extending El Emnor’s contract should definitely be on the agenda.
El Emnor shared, “In my career, I’ve learned that thinking about contracts can sidetrack you. This year, I’m focused on the present. If something’s meant to happen, it will.”
Reflecting on his career, Thomas has been part of a revolving door of right tackles, but El Emnor has finally stabilized that position. It wasn’t something former first-round pick Neal could accomplish.
Now, El Emnor has set ambitious goals for himself this season: to play 1,000 snaps, start all 17 games, and be the best right tackle in the NFL. “My goal has always been to be the top player at my position. If you’re not aiming high, what’s the point? I’m not here just to collect a paycheck; I want to dominate,” he explained.
At 26, Thomas is contracted through 2029, while El Emnor, now 29, joined the Giants last year under a two-year, $14 million deal, which seems quite reasonable next to swing tackle James Hudson’s two-year, $12 million contract.
“Jermain is a great player,” Thomas remarked. “We talk a lot about technique. Each lineman has different strengths and weaknesses, so we share ideas and try to maintain rhythm. A strong performance from us enhances the team’s chances of winning, which is our ultimate goal.”
The Giants’ past strong offensive lines were instrumental in their two Super Bowl victories, led by left tackle David Diehl and right tackle Kareem McKenzie.
“Having a reliable partner makes a huge difference. When you both do your jobs, it creates a solid foundation,” El Emnor noted.
Interestingly, the Giants benefitted from El Emnor’s versatility. Initially brought on as a guard, he switched to right tackle when Neal got hurt, and then to left tackle when Thomas was sidelined.
“I told Daves in the offseason that I wanted to focus on just one position rather than worrying about switching around. I wanted to show my true potential,” El Emnor said. “In previous years, my versatility kept me in the league. Now, I feel mentally and physically prepared, and for the first time, my weight isn’t an obstacle. My nutrition is on point, and I feel free to play.”
New Jersey holds sentimental value for El Emnor, being home to his parents and high school experiences. While he’s settling down, his performance has evolved from short-term contracts to looking for more stability.
“It feels amazing to finally have a place to call home,” he expressed. “But my priority right now is to prove myself in the next ten games.”
