As the New York Giants journey toward the 2020 offseason, numerous decisions need to be made regarding personnel and troublesome performances in 2019. Left tackle is one of those tumultuous positions that need to be addressed, whether it be through the NFL Draft or free agency.
When GM Dave Gettleman initially used his problem-solving abilities to sign Nate Solder on a record-deal to lock up the left tackle position, he imagined $16 million per season would be enough to reinforce it. However, the result has been underwhelming, especially this season, as Solder ranks 1st in the league, allowing 11 total sacks.
According to the most Mock Draft from CBS Sports, the Giants select Georgia tackle, Andrew Thomas, who is the consensus best tackle in the upcoming draft.
No. 4 – New York Giants select OT Andrew Thomas
The Nate Solder experiment has been a gigantic flop for the Giants, so they go Thomas here, the consensus top left tackle in the class.
While this isn’t the sexiest pick, and losing out on Chase Young seems like the Giants’ reality after beating the Washington Redskins in week 16, it’s a selection that would address a position of pressing need.
Does it make sense for the New York Giants to cut Nate Solder?
Aside from the value, Thomas would bring to the team, cutting Solder would have cap implications. He would count $13 million in dead cap if cut this offseason, but if the Giants retain him, he will count $19.5 million. The savings would only be a mere $6.5 million, but it would allow them to attribute more money towards other weaknesses. It’s also possible they move him over to right tackle and draft Thomas to feature on the left side.
There are various things Gettleman can do to solidify the line, but keeping it relatively the same isn’t an option. The unit as a whole has given up 39 sacks this year, a bit better than the 47 they racked up in 2018. So, are the Giants preparing to let Solder walk? I would say, yes, since they physically cannot keep allowing him to protect (lack of), Daniel Jones’ blindside.