The New York Giants have an improved offensive line, but they will have to deal with the retirement of right guard Chris Snee.
The New York Giants’ offensive line played a major role in Eli Manning’s struggles, as evidenced by them finishing 28th according to Pro Football Focus.
They received some unfortunate news when right guard Chris Snee announced his retirement, so right guard may become a hole. Brandon Mosley, John Jerry and Weston Richburg will all compete for the job.
Jerry was revealed to be part of the Miami Dolphins’ scandal, but he is still expected to make the roster.
Richburg will also be competing for the starting center job with J.D. Walton, so his versatility may earn him a starting spot somewhere. Walton is expected to win the battle since he already has 36 NFL starts under his belt.
At left tackle, Will Beatty struggled mightily last season. The former second-round pick had received a large contract extension for a solid performance in 2012, but he eventually suffered a broken tibia and had surgery on it.
If his recovery does not go as smoothly as expected, Charles Brown is expected to step in. Brown will be a reliable backup, but he struggled as a starter in New Orleans.
Left guard will have a major upgrade with Geoff Schwartz joining the Giants. He excelled at right guard with the Kansas City Chiefs, and his transition to the left should go smoothly.
Justin Pugh will start at right tackle. The 2013 first-round pick made natural rookie mistakes, but he showed growth as the season went along. The Giants are counting on him to make the second-year jump.
DeMarcus Love or James Brewer will presumably take up the final roster spot on the offensive line. Love offers versatility at tackle and guard, but he was caught with PEDs in 2013 before being suspended for four games. Brewer has blown opportunities to win a starting job, so he will be a reserve at best.
The Giants should have a better offensive line than last season, but there are still concerns such as the loss of Snee.
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