The New York Giants added some veterans to their offensive line group this offseason that should upgrade that was a league-worst unit in 2023. But one youngster could be stepping into a larger, more versatile role in 2024.
The Giants are crosstraining Joshua Ezeudu in new positions
The Giants drafted Joshua Ezeudu in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft as an offensive guard out of UNC. The 24-year-old has added seven career starts to his name through his first two seasons, however, he has not stuck to his original position.
This spring, the Giants were reportedly training Ezeudu at right tackle — a new position for the third-year pro. Ezeudu had spent the first two seasons of his career on the left side of the line.
In 2022, Ezeudu saw the field for 289 total snaps and two starts, all coming at left guard. He allowed 15 pressures and three sacks.
In 2023, Ezeudu didn’t play any guard and spent all 266 of his snaps on the season at left tackle. The Giants needed Ezeudu to step into that role after All-Pro blindside protector Andrew Thomas went down with a hamstring injury.
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Ezeudu surrendered 12 pressures and five sacks in 2023, leaving little confidence that he is prepared enough to take that next step as a full-time starter. However, his willingness to move along the line and ability to play more than one position increases his value.
Entering 2024, Ezeudu could see an opportunity to receive playing time at right tackle if fellow third-year pro Evan Neal continues to struggle or suffers another injury. Ezeudu adding some experience at the position could play a vital role in ensuring that the Giants have players handy in case of an emergency at the position.
Additionally, the Giants could plan on utilizing Ezeudu as their swing tackle in heavy personnel packages. Some formations call for an extra offensive lineman on the field and Ezeudu could earn his playing time in that role as he continues to develop and strive toward an eventual starting job.
