The New York Giants have struggled to find offensive linemen in the NFL Draft, which has resulted in several years of disappointment from their pass- and run-blocking departments, but Big Blue may have found something that could change all of that in 2025.
We don't need to go back in time and look at all of the mistakes the G-Men's front office has made drafting linemen and talk about players like Ereck Flowers or, most recently, Evan Neal, which has undoubtedly been a storyline for this offseason.
Let's talk about the present and the Giants' fifth-round pick, Marcus Mbow, who may be the steal of the NFL Draft. Mbow allowed just one pressure in 35 snaps played and received an 81.2 pass block grade from Pro Football Focus, which is an outstanding preseason debut, and he is getting praise from one former NFL lineman.
Brian Baldinger gives Marcus Mbow praise he deserves after debut
Former NFL lineman turned analyst Brian Baldinger broke down Mbow's tape from last weekend against the Buffalo Bills. Baldy called Mbow the best Giants rookie and was impressed with the way he was dumping opposing players to the ground, especially on Jaxson Dart's 28-yard touchdown pass to Lil'Jordan Humphrey.
.@giants the best rookie performance was @MarcusMbow All I heard was SMACK SMACK. all I saw was SWAT SWAT. Let's go go go. #BaldysBreakdowns pic.twitter.com/m5cywGj81T
— Brian Baldinger (@BaldyNFL) August 10, 2025
The most significant issue for the offense has been the health of their offensive line. It's been their literal Achilles heel for years. The team always suffers several injuries on its offensive line, so loading up on depth is crucial for Big Blue this year, and Mbow will contribute to that this year.
With All-Pro tackle Andrew Thomas currently on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list and James Hudson III not looking great in preseason game No. 1, this could open the door for Mbow to get opportunities earlier than anticipated.
Even if Thomas is good to go by Week 1, the rookie will likely still see the field this season because you have to assume there will be injuries or Big Blue will rotate their lineman to give defenses a different look. The former Purdue Boilermaker will play a vital role on the Giants' offensive line because he will be able to fill those missing voids.
When you think of Giants' rookies this year, everyone is going to first think about Abdul Carter and Dart, and then they might think about Cam Skattebo. Still, more people should know about Mbow, especially if he continues to have an impressive training camp and plays well Saturday against the Jets.