Giants’ Marc Colombo opens up about Andrew Thomas’ struggles

October 13, 2020
New York Giants, Andrew Thomas

The weakest link for the New York Giants has been their offensive line through five weeks, which has consistently struggled to maintain their continuity in run blocking and pass blocking.

Against the Dallas Cowboys in week five, left tackle Andrew Thomas and right tackle Cameron Fleming allowed 18 total pressures. Aldon Smith and Demarcus Lawrence had their way with the Giants‘ tackles, but that hasn’t been a surprise this year.

Thomas, who is selected with the fourth overall pick in the 2020 NFL draft, has been a liability on Daniel Jones’s blindside this year.

While Thomas actually had his best grade through five weeks against Dallas, according to PFF Elite (subscription needed), his pass-blocking grade was the worst it has ever been. Prior to the matchup, his worst grade was a 51.5 against the San Francisco 49ers in week three. Against the Cowboys, Thomas fell all the way to 31.7. However, he even out his scoring with a solid run-blocking grade of 73.6.

Through five weeks, he has allowed 4.0 sacks, three quarterback hits, 21 hurries, and 28 pressures. While he hasn’t given up a penalty, showing the discipline in that category, he has been below average in every other section.

While the rookie tackle has struggled, offensive line coach, Marc Colombo has provided some insight into his issues. He stated that Thomas has been “overshooting his target,” which is what we saw against Demarcus Lawrence on the fumble return for a touchdown in the first half.

Colombo stated further in regard to Andrew Thomas:

“Andrew’s capable of being a dominating left tackle in the NFL.” 
I tend to agree with Colombo that Thomas can be a dominant left tackle in the NFL. However, early on in his career, Thomas has shown regression, even from a collegiate standpoint.
His technical abilities are a mess, and he has minimal chemistry and linkage between his feet and hands. His base seems to be off frequently as his feet are too close together on speed rushes. Of course, a lot of his development depends on experience, which is what he is receiving this year. Considering the lack of a preseason, Thomas is well behind where he should be, and the quality pass rushers he’s been forced to face has presented a significant challenge.
All we are hoping for is gradual improvement, and Thomas has seen that in his run blocking. However, his pass blocking continues to stagnate, which is something that Colombo is undoubtedly focused on.
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