New York Giants fans are well aware of James Hudson, the team's backup left tackle. With Andrew Thomas sidelined with a foot injury, Hudson started in the season-opening game against the Washington Commanders, where he allowed six pressures. Even though he struggled, head coach Brian Daboll decided to stick with Hudson.
That decision backfired tremendously for the Giants in Week 2.
The Giants offense looked electric in their opening drive against the Dallas Cowboys, as quarterback Russell Wilson showed off his connection with Malik Nabers and Wan'Dale Robinson. The thing is, the Giants were unable to reach the end zone because of Hudson. In the opening drive, Hudson accounted for four penalties worth 40 yards. Hudson single-handedly took seven points off the board, as the Giants had to settle for a fieldgoal.
James Hudson single-handedly cost the Giants a touchdown in penalty-riddled opening drive in Week 2
The trouble first started after rookie running back Cam Skattebo ran for a huge 10-yard gain on second-and-15, but it was wiped out after Hudson was called for unnecessary roughness. Two plays later, Hudson was called for a false start.
Perhaps the most egregious is that Robinson picked up a huge 50-yard catch on a pass from Wilson. But the play did not count as Hudson was called for unnecessary roughness.
Even though I am fuming some good things this drive
— Talkin’ Giants (@TalkinGiants) September 14, 2025
- Biggest play of the year 51 yards to Wan'Dale (Russ throwing to the middle of the field!)
- Moved the ball a good amount
- Big plays taken off the board due to penalties
- LONG DRIVE
- Please get James Hudson out of this game pic.twitter.com/ZE3aryCNwy
To cap off the drive, Hudson was called for another false start. So the Giants had a 16-play, 110-yard opening drive that resulted in...three points. All thanks to Hudson.
The Giants and Daboll saw enough from Hudson, as they bencehd him after the opening drive in favor of rookie Marcus Mbow. Hudson didn't take the news well as he was visibly angry on the sidelines and had to be held back.
#Giants OT James Hudson was not happy that he was benched.
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) September 14, 2025
(🎥 @BobbySkinner_)pic.twitter.com/iDzzIpu8Pd https://t.co/BherFNYBIA
The Giants signed Hudson to a two-year, $12 million contract this offseason in hopes he would shore up the depth on the offensive line. But after less than two games, Hudson's tenure may already be over. Let's just say that most Giants fans will be thrilled if he never sees the field for the team again.