The NY Giants had hopes for offensive tackle Matt Gono to bring in depth and energy to the offensive line this campaign. Unfortunately, a career-ending neck injury will prevent that. The 26-year-old hoss signed with the team in the offseason on a one-year-deal worth $1.2 million.
At the start of training camp, Gono felt good strong, but according to Jordan Raanan of ESPN, he has suffered a neck injury that’s going to make him hang up his cleats. With the Giants looking to add another body with experience at the position, the team has signed veteran OT Will Holden, who has nine career starts to his name.
The #Giants signed veteran tackle Will Holden. Needed depth at position, especially after Matt Gono news. Holden has played in 27 career games with nine starts.
— Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan) August 5, 2022
Waived DL Niko Lalos, who was a favorite of the previous regime but didn’t seem to have a place with the new staff.
Matt Gono retiring due to a neck injury is tough news for the NY Giants
It is truly unfortunate for the Gono, as he was a very talented lineman coming out of Wesley College, but neck injuries derailed his professional career. Neck injuries are nothing to play around with either and even though it was something he likely didn’t want to do, it was probably wise for him to call it a career.
NY Giants wasted no time in bringing in Will Holden
With the signing of the 28-year-old OT in Holden, he will likely take on the swing tackle role that was originally supposed to be Gono’s. Holden is still capable of being a very reliable piece for New York’s offensive line unit.
Last season with the Detroit Lions, Holden only allowed one sack in 71 snaps. He is very skilled for the position, and although a bit short for the tackle spot, he is durable, strong, and quick.
Holden isn’t expected to come in and be a superstar for the Giants, but as fans know, you can never have enough depth for the offensive line. The major positive from Holden is that he has well over 20 games of experience, so this will be nothing new for him if his number is called in going out to protect Daniel Jones. Holden will look to make a name for himself during preseason action to try and lock in a spot with the team. Only time will tell if that happens or not.