Key Takeaways:
– New York Giants could leverage tackle Andrew Thomas’ contract to add much-needed talent.
– Giants are currently positioned 22nd in cap space for the 2024 NFL season.
– Thomas’ past injury history may create a necessity for more financial flexibility.
– Improvement in the offensive line remains a significant factor in the Giants’ upcoming season.
– The team aims to prevent another spate of injuries that derailed their previous season.
Improving the New York Giants’ Squad
The New York Giants may look to add more talent to their roster for the 2024 NFL season, and their strategy could involve restructuring the contract of All-Pro left tackle, Andrew Thomas.
As stated by Alex Ballentine from Bleacher Report, Thomas is one of the few “foundational” players on the current team. His five-year contract worth $117.5 million is considered beneficial for the Giants. Because the pact stretches till 2029, it doesn’t exert more than a $22.9 million cap charge.
However, the Giants are currently ranked 22nd in cap space. This financial positioning may pose challenges when they need to make a trade or recruit a free agent during the season. Ballentine believes that leveraging Thomas’ contract could create much-needed room under the salary cap.
Remember the 2023 Season?
Remember 2023? That’s when several injuries initially threw the Giants’ season under the bus. And guess what? The implications for 2024 are just around the corner. Last season, the Giants were placed third from the bottom in post-draft power rankings. Failure isn’t an option for them this year, thus shedding some light on the logic behind adding to the emergency funds.
There’s no denying the current charm of Thomas’ contract, given he’s the sole high-quality player on an otherwise feeble offensive line. Nonetheless, considering his lengthy but often overlooked injury history, the Giants may need some financial leeway.
Thomas’ Impact and Future
If you’re a Giants fan, you probably remember Thomas’ impressive season in 2022. Despite an early hamstring injury last season, the 25-year-old player’s technique and athleticism remain undeniable. However, when he was out of action, the Giants’ offensive line crumbled, leading to the highest league sacks at 85. Indeed, the team needs him to stay healthy and lead improvements, but there’s also a concern for paying him more as he ages.
The Offensive Line Can’t Be Overlooked
You see, a major contribution to the Giants’ fate hinged on the performance of their offensive line last season, and it’s going to be the same this year. Aiding Thomas shall be Jon Runyan Jr. and Jermaine Eluemunor, who have joined the team from free agency.
Eluemunor’s experience might become handy in case Evan Neal continues to flounder. However, the team has been eyeing an improvement, allowing even an undrafted free agent to make impressions this offseason.
Player Health Remains Vital
Keeping in mind the past losses of quarterbacks Daniel Jones and Tyrod Taylor, and tight end Darren Waller to injured reserve, the Giants are focusing on staying healthy and optimistic. At this point, there’s more emphasis on player health than chasing the market during the season. As the picture stands, the best move would be to keep the contract of their cornerstone player untouched.
In conclusion, the Giants have a complex season ahead, with offensive line improvement, player injuries, and financial flexibility capturing their focus. How they maneuver these challenges will truly shape their 2024 NFL season.