Based on the performance last season, most fans of the New York Giants aren’t too confident in the offensive line talent. However, the front office has shown through its actions that it believes this current line can do the job. That’s because the Giants went through the draft without spending a single pick on an offensive lineman.
Some might have thought the Giants were going to do that with the eleventh selection, but the organization instead surprised everyone with an unusual trade down and a selection of promising wide receiver Kadarius Toney. The pick is an intriguing one – but the surprising part is that the Giants didn’t go for an offensive line player even later in the draft.
In some way, this is understandable. The Giants didn’t want to take a lineman with their first pick for the second year straight and it’s unlikely that a later round pick would come in and make an immediate impact. It’s hard to rely on low draft picks to improve a position group, and the Giants showed that they weren’t going to take any lineman just for the sake of drafting one, even if it won’t make a big impact.
However, that does leave the Giants with just the offensive line talent they have now. That offensive line talent includes Will Hernandez, who will compete for a guard spot but has seemingly fallen out of favor within the current offense.
And Nate Solder, who is playing on a pay cut and missed last season entirely. Back when he was an active part of the lineup, his play did little to impress anyone and his previous, massive contract was considered a mistake all around. Solder, who previously signed this huge deal, may very well end up beat out by last season’s rookie Matt Peart.
All in all, there’s potential on the Giants offensive line from some players but it still remains in a precarious position. It was one of the main weaknesses of the team last season. This season, after the Giants didn’t address it in the draft, it may remain a big weakness unless Gettleman’s confidence pays off.
There’s not much other explanation for the Giants not drafting for the offensive line other than confidence in what they have now.