Head coach Brian Daboll was straightforward when discussing the backup plans for left tackle Andrew Thomas, who underwent season-ending Lisfranc surgery after Week 6. “You can’t replace an Andrew Thomas,” he stated, a sentiment that has proven accurate so far.
Initially, the Giants chose to start backup left tackle Joshua Ezeudu in place of Thomas, aiming to keep the offensive line stable. However, in their Week 7 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, the team’s quarterbacks were sacked eight times.
While other options exist, they aren’t particularly appealing. One possibility is moving right tackle Jermaine Eluemunor to left tackle, which would allow first-round pick Evan Neal to reclaim a starting position he lost due to injury and inconsistency. The team could also elevate veteran tackle Chris Hubbard, whom they signed before the Week 7 game.
However, the Giants seem hesitant to pursue either of these alternatives. Instead, they are exploring the free agent market for additional offensive line help.
According to Adam Schefter, the Giants recently held a workout for veteran tackle D.J. Humphries, who is recovering from a torn ACL. Despite his injury, he stands out as one of the most skilled tackles available. Humphries, a former first-round pick in 2015, spent his entire eight-year career with the Arizona Cardinals and made the Pro Bowl in 2021, although his performance has been more average in recent years.
If the Giants believe he can perform at least at an average level soon, they are likely to extend an offer. The current offensive line situation is dire, and the only concern may be Humphries’ knee, given he had surgery in January.
Unlike Hubbard, Eluemunor, and Neal—who are the next options for the left side—Humphries has primarily played left tackle throughout his career.
If he’s healthy, signing him would be a smart move for the Giants. Talented offensive linemen rarely stay in free agency for long, and with the season’s challenges mounting, taking a chance on a proven tackle could be the best option for New York.
