Since joining the New York Giants as a first-round draft pick in 2020, right tackle Andrew Thomas has been a trusted and reliable member of the offensive line.
But unfortunately for the Giants last season, Thomas suffered a Lisfranc injury. He tried to play through it, but ultimately he landed on injured reserve (IR) after six games and needed surgery.
That surgery took place last October and has forced Thomas to miss the team’s offseason workouts. Still, he says he feels good, and the goal is to play Week 1. However, he makes no promises about being ready by then, but has that date circled on his calendar.
Thomas provided some optimism on Wednesday that he is solidly upright when he threw the ceremonial first pitch at the New York Yankees game against the Seattle Mariners.
After being limited to 16 games in two seasons, Thomas wants nothing more than to be back on the field this fall doing what he loves. There are two months before the Giants play any games that matter, giving Thomas more time to rehab and recover before the season starts.
Thomas is an integral part of the offensive line, which we all witnessed struggle after he was injured. Quarterback protection was less than ideal and ultimately led to the benching and release of Daniel Jones. Drew Lock and Tommy DeVito took the reins from there, although they were no better than Jones was.
Now that the Giants have Russell Wilson at the helm with Jameis Winston and Jaxson Dart to back him up, quarterback protection matters more than ever. Wilson is a veteran who knows how to navigate coverage breakdowns, which is helpful, but the Giants will be so much better off when Thomas returns to the lineup.
Starting the season without Thomas would be difficult, but if he can reach his goal of being ready in Week 1, the Giants will start the season on the right foot (no pun intended).
#Giants #Andrew #Thomas #delivers #ceremonial #pitch #Yankees #game