No. 1 worst: Nate Solder, 2018
Of Gettleman’s worst signings, Solder is the only one currently still employed by the Giants. Owed over $16 million this year, it’d be shocking to see him return to the team at that number – if, at all.
Solder came to the Giants in 2019 – touted as the fix to their long-term left tackle problem. After years of watching Ereck Flowers, his hefty four year, $62 million contract didn’t seem too steep a price to pay.
While the Giants made him the highest paid offensive lineman in the league, Solder didn’t play at a high level in blue. He became the target of Giants fan’s rage – his inability to keep the quarterback off the turf a continual problem.
While the Giants got a reprieve last season with Solder opting out of the season, their problem has re-appeared with his return. It’s not an easy fix either – if the team decides to cut him, they’d be hit with a dead money charge in 2021 and 2022.
The best case scenario for the Giants would be if Solder decides to retire. It’s been reported he’s been considering it, but he still wants to see if he can go out and hold his own.
Solder, like Omameh, was brought in to be part of the new look Giants’ offensive line. One built by Gettleman that could last for the foreseeable future – one that could help the team compete, and win.
Instead, the former New England Patriot became part of the problem – not the solution. His albatross of a contract coupled with his ineffective play makes him the worst signing of the Gettleman era.