NY Giants: Rookie Offensive Linemen bode well for group’s future
“Physical Offensive Tackle”
UConn OT Matt Peart, 3rd round (99th overall)
Gettleman bet heavy on the offensive line in the last draft, investing three of their ten picks at this finicky position. And considering Giants co-owner John Mara’s decision to keep his GM in charge for another full offseason speaks to the success Gettleman had with the rookies he drafted.
With Andrew Thomas and Matt Peart, it certainly appears that the Giants have valid options to place at their tackle positions moving forward. However, that doesn’t excuse them from not drafting additional help at the right tackle position this year.
While Peart shined at this position at UConn with his physicality, footwork, and effective hand placement, the former Husky’s debut in blue has not solved all of Big Blue’s offensive line woes.
Taken in the third round, the Giants added him for offensive line depth. Since then, he managed to provide a glimpse of his production by starting behind Cameron Fleming at the right tackle position throughout the year.
Prior to the season, the Giants signed Fleming to a one-year deal. He went on to start all 16 games this season while dominating 90% of offensive snaps. Meanwhile, Peart started just one game in the 11 he appeared in.
Peart started 24 games at right tackle at UCONN, and 24 at left tackle. Started his career at LT before moving to the right side. Fist Team All-AAC and team captain in 2019. 5.06 40 yard dash at NFL Combine.
— John Schmeelk (@Schmeelk) April 25, 2020
Although Peart’s strength and incredible athleticism helped move the run game and showcase the power he brings to his game, the reality is that the Giants ground game is not where it needs to be to win a division title in a normal season.
But in Peart’s case, management and fans alike need a larger sample size from their 2020 third-round pick before they can make an accurate assessment about if he fits into the O-line for seasons to come.