Giants Seek Consistency in Offensive Line
Since the last ticker tape parade, the Giants have produced a plethora of offensive line strategies, enough to fill the hero’s canyon with confetti, so to speak.
With signings like Nate Solder and Mark Glowinski, trades involving Kevin Zeitler, Ben Bredeson, and the drafting of players like Elek Flowers, the Giants have continually sought to find that next key player to address ongoing issues with blocking.
This year, however, it seems there’s an emphasis on building some much-needed continuity during training camp.
“After two offseason programs and two complete training camps, everyone is getting comfortable,” remarked left guard Jon Runyan Jr., a notable free-agent signing for the upcoming season. “When we go into team drills, there’s a much better flow as we play alongside each other. It’s exciting to see how much has changed from last year.”
The starting offensive line for Week 1 of 2025 could mirror that of 2024, marking the first time this has happened consecutively since 2009-10, according to a Post survey.
However, the current lineup—Andrew Thomas, Jon Runyan, John Michael Schmitz, Greg Van Roten, and Jermaine Eluemunor—hasn’t fully practiced together this summer. Thomas is recovering from foot surgery that took place last October.
Fortunately, Thomas is expected to return in time for the match against the Commanders, likely allowing Evan Neal—who has started 27 games at right tackle—to step in for Van Roten at right guard instead of bringing in unfamiliar faces.
“I go up against them every day, and you know, it’s intense,” said linebacker Bobby Okereke. “I’m hitting them and going against the running backs—they’re really the engine behind our offense.”
Van Roten’s absence has opened doors for Neal’s development. “Evan’s presence is significant, especially during those double teams against defensive tackles,” Eluemunor commented. “His hands are enormous. When he connects, it’s impactful.”
Last season, the Giants utilized the most varying offensive line combinations in the league, with ten different configurations, a situation that stemmed from Thomas’s injury in week six.
“It’s vital that the five guys see the game with the same mindset,” Coach Brian Daboll noted, emphasizing the need to ensure players are prepared.
Finding contributions from swing tackle James Hudson is crucial, particularly as the team looks to leverage key free agent signings and talented rookies like Marcus MBow, along with backups Josh Ezedo and Jake Kubus.
Daboll has a low tolerance for mistakes along the offensive line. A player committing a pre-snap penalty is immediately sidelined before the next play.
“To establish the offensive line we aspire to be this year, we need players like Hudson to step up,” Eluemunor explained.
Runyan and Eluemunor missed two games last season, while previously uninjured players like Runyan missed four. The inconsistent lineup contributed to the Giants’ 21st ranking in the league.
“We have high aspirations and big goals this year. I truly believe we can achieve them,” Eluemunor expressed confidently. “I refuse to accept anything less than greatness.”
Thomas’s absence was a significant issue in 2024, paralleling the challenges faced in 2023 when the Giants struggled defensively and sought the additions of Runyan and Eluemunor.
“We’re preparing for any scenario,” Runyan stated. “Andrew is essentially the backbone of this offense. His presence elevates our performance. However, every player must execute as effectively as the one before them.”
Veteran defensive tackle Rakeem Nunez-Roches has noticed the growing confidence among the offensive players. “You can see it in their communication and how they’re building trust as a unit,” he commented.
