After two underwhelming years with the New York Giants, offensive tackle Ereck Flowers is ready to prove that flowers are meant to grow.
It’s time for Ereck Flowers to flourish, or to blossom. Either would be fine. The New York Giants young left tackle is entering his third NFL season, all of which he has spent protecting Eli Manning’s blindside. No easy task.
Since the day the Giants drafted Flowers at No. 9 overall in the 2015 NFL Draft, he’s had a lot expected of him. When they made the pick, it felt like it was a bit of a stretch. Flowers had a late first-round projection heading into the draft, but the Giants had a gaping need.
The ensuing day, the Giants traded up ahead of the field to snag safety Landon Collins in the second round. This put the fans at ease, as it felt as though Flowers and Collins were two solid guys to leave the first two two rounds with.
Good Things Take Time
As any young professional can attest to, it’s tough transitioning from being an amateur to a professional overnight. Whether a young sales professional, a teacher, a police officer, or a 21-year-old left tackle for the New York Giants, there will be growing pains.
For Flowers, the learning curve has been tough. He’s struggled throughout most of his first two NFL seasons, which does not go overlooked in the big apple.
Flowers is ready for the challenge
Flowers is still just 23 years old—the age of most college graduates when they begin their careers. The young man out of the University of Miami is finally at a point where he can put everything together.
Via two years of experience, Flowers now has a better understanding of the game on the highest level, as well as what is expected of him. This, aligned with his physical prowess, is a recipe for improvement.
When the Giants drafted Flowers in 2015, head coach Tom Coughlin referred to him as an, “Aircraft carrier,” when discussing his size. Flowers is a big, big man.
And for the first time in his career, I believe that he will now have the confidence to play like the big man that he is.
Taking The Small Steps
When the news came in that Flowers had spent his offseason working out locally around the facilities, it showed signs of his maturity. This move is proof of Flowers priorities and his is willingness to sacrifice to take the proper steps forward.
The offensive line is the most discussed flaw of this Giants squad. This is likely because the roster has few holes to poke in it from top to bottom.
Having spent some time on the offensive line throughout my younger years, I can tell you that playing as one is the most important thing. The Giants’ championship lines heavily relied on one another and played as a fluid unit.
Flowers has the chance to raise the level of the entire line, and ultimately the entire team.
The Giants Super Bowl XLII Offensive Line Is The Goal
According to Sam Monson of Pro Football Focus, it wasn’t all bad from Flowers in 2016.
"Ereck Flowers began the season with three solid games, surrendering just five total QB pressures and no hits or sacks over that time, suggesting that he had turned a corner from his ugly rookie season"
With all that has been said, and all that has been done, it’s now time for Flowers’ play to do the talking. This team will be judged on its ability to win football games, hinging on the team’s ability to protect Eli Manning.
Hey, Ereck Flowers, go prove the naysayers wrong! Those who can relate to you will let your play this year and beyond define you. Be the anchor this team needs to take the jump to the next level. You could be part of something special.