The NY Giants depth chart is much improved entering the 2021 season with a roster potentially capable of pushing for the NFL Playoffs
As embattled NY Giants general manager Dave Gettleman enters what could be a make-or-break season, it would seem for the first time he has built a roster capable of breaking a four-year NFL postseason drought.
Much of the NY Giants’ success hinges on quarterback Daniel Jones making significant strides in his development, but after an offseason spending spree, New York has the kind of depth across the roster necessary to take the next step.
NY Giants head coach Joe Judge wasn’t shying away from expectations that come with a more talented depth chart this spring.
“I talk to the team all the time about expectations,” Judge admitted during minicamp. “But right now at this time of year, the expectation for them is to come in, get in shape, do their job the best they can and work as hard as they can, to pay attention and make decisions that put the team first, that’s it.”
Will increased talent lead to more wins this season?
Here’s a look at how each position on the NY Giants depth chart stacks up from weakest to strongest as training camp and the 2021 NFL season approach:
9) Offensive line
Starters: Andrew Thomas, Shane Lemieux, Nick Gates, Will Hernandez, Matt Peart
2nd team: Nate Solder, Jonotthan Harrison, Brett Hggie, Zach Fulton, Chad Slade
If it seems like the NY Giants’ offensive line perennially is a “work in progress,” well, that’s because for the better part of a decade it has been.
The NY Giants are optimistic that Andrew Thomas and Matt Peart can be the bookends at tackle for the coming decade. But, both have significant questions about whether they can put it all together and play at a consistently high level for an entire season.
Shane Lemieux must step up from a subpar rookie season, and Will Hernandez is entering his fourth season, after regressing in 2020 aiming to prove worthy of a long-term extension and live up to expectations of a high second-round pick.
Daniel Jones taking a significant leap at quarterback will dictate the NY Giants’ success or failure in 2021 but his development just might hinge on the offensive line improving in front of him.