How all ten picks from the 2020 NFL Draft fit with the NY Giants
By David Solow
Andrew Thomas – OT, Georiga
Why he was the pick at #4- Gettleman loves his hog mollies, and it pained him to see his young quarterback get hit so many times in 2019. His other big investment, Saquon Barkley, has been held back by the offensive line issues as well. According to PFF, Andrew Thomas projects as the best all-around offensive lineman in the entire draft.
The fact that he plays left tackle made the decision even easier. Daniel Jones’ biggest issues have been his tunnel vision and fumbles. Protecting his blindside was the priority, which is why he was chosen over Jedrick Wills.
Thomas, along with NY Giants’ third-rounder Matt Peart, had the longest arms of the offensive tackles in the draft. Gettleman’s type at offensive tackle is a guy with length that can recover if he gets beat with an initial move.
Thomas’ athletic traits and length allowed him to thrive even as a freshman right tackle for the Georgia Bulldogs. Starting at offensive tackle as a true freshman for a premier SEC team is rare. He only allowed 17 pressures during that initial season and stifled players like Lorenzo Carter in practice.
Thomas was the safest pick for the G-Men. His floor is much higher than Tristan Wirfs and Mekhi Becton. According to PFF, elite offensive line play is less valuable than deficient play is detrimental.
How versatile is he? Thomas has experience playing left and right tackle for the Bulldogs. With Nate Solder, Nick Gates, Cam Fleming, and Matt Peart on the roster, Thomas’ right tackle experience will give Jason Garrett more flexibility when configuring his offensive line.
How will he fit in for the 2020 NY Giants? Thomas will likely slide right in at left tackle for the G-Men. He is already the best offensive tackle on the roster and will be trusted to protect Jones’ blindside. He will create a young and nasty left side of the line with Will Hernandez.
How do I feel about the pick? I wanted Isaiah Simmons bad, but the NY Giants could have done a lot worse than Andrew Thomas. Simmons would have been a higher risk than Thomas, but I believe could have returned a greater reward for a team devoid of playmakers on defense. Gettleman’s second-round pick took away some of the sting I felt from losing out on the Clemson star.
My (too early) grade: B I don’t fault Gettleman for not trading back. There were no trades in the top 10 this year. Thomas will pay immediate dividends for Jones and Barkley’s production.