The New York Giants are using every possible avenue to inject more offensive line talent into the roster. Despite having minimal salary space this off-season, new general manager, Joe Schoen did a solid job bringing in adequate players who can compete for starting snaps.
Signing free agents like Mark Glowinski from the Indianapolis Colts, Jon Feliciano from Buffalo, and even Pro Bowl alternate Max Garcia from Arizona were just some of the more cost-efficient signings that could end up being beneficial for Big Blue. Of course, they will look to utilize the 2022 NFL draft to plug the right tackle position and add potential depth at guard.
However, the Giants also looked to the International Pathway Program to find a 6’9″ behemoth offensive tackle in Roy Mbaeteka.
Former Giants pass rusher Osi Umenyiora has done a phenomenal job connecting Africa with the NFL, finding potential talent with raw capabilities. Umenyiora spoke about Mbaeteka, specifically noting his physically imposing nature.
“Once you see him, you know he’s physically imposing and in a year or two if you immerse him in football culture, he’s going to be fantastic,” Umenyiora told the Giants website.
Despite Osi being connected with the international program, the Giants did their own research and saw the value in Mbaeteka. At 6’9″ and 320 pounds, there aren’t many human beings gifted with that natural size. Given he has adequate athleticism and a good head on his shoulders, he could end up developing into something legitimate in the future.
“A lot of people think this was me, but I had nothing to do with this,’’ Umenyiora said. “The Giants decided they were going to fly him in. They did this on their own. For it to be the Giants of all teams, it means the world to me, it really does.’’
Giants scout Jeremy Breit was impressed by Mbaeteka, who featured at the NFL showcase in Arizona for international players recently. The Giants signed him just a day later on Thursday this past week.