The New York Giants’ GM is Determined to reconstruct the team’s offensive line.

After enduring the ignominy of conceding the highest number of sacks in the NFL last season, Joe Schoen, the General Manager of the New York Giants, made it his paramount objective this offseason to reconstruct the team’s offensive line.

In the initial fortnight of free agency, no other franchise has procured as many proficient offensive linemen as the Giants. On the opening day of free agency, Schoen fortified the offensive line by securing the services of Jon Runyan Jr., formerly with the Packers, on a lucrative three-year contract worth $30 million. Shortly thereafter, Jermaine Eluemunor, a former Raiders offensive lineman, was signed to a two-year deal valued at $14 million.

Subsequently, Austin Schlottmann, Aaron Stinnie, and Matt Nelson were also added to the roster. It is anticipated that the team will enlist at least one more lineman in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft. However, for now, let’s examine how the starting offensive line might shape up for the forthcoming season.

With the departure of Saquon Barkley, Andrew Thomas undoubtedly stands as the premier talent on the team and ranks among the finest tackles in the NFL. The team’s record of 6-11 would likely have been more favorable had Thomas not sustained a hamstring injury during the opening possession of the season while attempting to thwart Cowboys defensive back Noah Igbinoghene following a blocked field goal attempt.

Following a seven-game absence, Thomas returned to action in peak form. The team expresses confidence in his ability to return to the Second Team All-Pro level he exhibited in 2022.

After two underwhelming seasons, speculation has arisen suggesting that Will Neal may be better suited to transition from right tackle to guard. ESPN’s Jordan Raanan has reported that the team has broached the subject with Neal, and playing alongside Thomas seems the optimal move should he make the switch.

This season is pivotal in the career of 23-year-old Neal. Coming off a campaign where he appeared in just seven games and made disparaging remarks towards the fanbase, the team faces a decision regarding his fifth-year option after the season. Regardless of whether he assumes duties at guard or right tackle, significant improvement in his performance is imperative for him to secure a long-term tenure in New York.

Despite encountering struggles during his rookie season, Schmitz started in 13 games. While his overall rating from PFF was a modest 41.4, it is commonly expected for players to make substantial progress from their debut season to their sophomore year. The hope is that under the guidance of new offensive line coach Carmen Bricillo, Schmitz will exhibit marked improvement in his second season.

Runyan has established himself as one of the most durable linemen in the league, appearing in 51 consecutive games over the past three seasons. In the previous season, he logged 928 snaps and conceded merely two sacks. Hence, his signing was of paramount importance to Schoen, as it is imperative to safeguard the well-being of Daniel Jones, or whichever player assumes the role of the team’s starting quarterback.

Eluemunor is a robust lineman with seven seasons of experience in the league, having previously played for the Ravens, Patriots, and Raiders. His versatility in playing both guard and tackle positions is invaluable to a team undergoing an overhaul of their offensive line.

Having previously worked with Bricillo during their time at the Raiders in 2022 and 2023, Eluemunor is poised to join forces with him once again. He has primarily served as the Raiders’ starting right tackle for the past two seasons, with expectations that he will eventually fill the same role for the Giants. Both he and Neal are anticipated to alternate between guard and tackle positions during voluntary workouts and training camp.

The true cohesion of this offensive line remains to be seen on the field. Nevertheless, Schoen has taken proactive measures to address the team’s most glaring deficiency, aiming to transform it into a formidable asset.