With Nate Solder electing to opt-out of the 2020 season citing family and health concerns, the New York Giants now have to find their starting right tackle a different way. Previously, the expectation was that they would utilize Solder in a position battle at right and left tackle to see where he shook out.
However, things have changed quickly, and fourth-round pick Andrew Thomas is now more inclined to start at left tackle. While some may argue that it is better to insert him on the right side to develop, you don’t draft a player in the top five picks not to utilize him in his intended fashion.
Let’s take a look at three competitors for the New York Giants at right tackle:
1.) Nick Gates
The Giants love Nick Gates and the tenacity he brings to the offensive line. Having spent time at right tackle and right guard in 2019, he showed the ability to adapt and play well at both positions. While he’s been projected as a center competitor during training camp, the Giants will undoubtedly slide him in on the right corner to battle it out. Ultimately, it might be in his best interest to become a starting right tackle in the NFL, as they get paid far more than centers.
However, he has been working with Las Vegas Raiders quarterback, Derek Carr, featuring under center. Nonetheless, he filled in for guard Kevin Zeitler last season with an 82.1 overall grade, according to PFF. Against the Dolphins, he didn’t allow a single pressure, and with Zeitler expected to return to the lineup in full force, right tackle and center seem to be his best chance at earning a starting spot.