He's not going anywhere, ladies and gentleman. Earlier this week, there was plenty of worry that perhaps veteran NY Giants offensive lineman Justin Pugh could be headed elsewhere after he returned to the practice squad. Well, Joe Schoen isn't letting that happen.
On Wednesday afternoon, it was announced that the G-Men have signed Pugh to the active roster. With his versatility to play either guard or tackle, this was a no-brainer for Schoen. With that, though, bad news came in for tight end Lawrence Cager, with him being released as a result:
Justin Pugh has been signed to the active roster.
— New York Giants (@Giants) October 18, 2023
Lawrence Cager has been waived. pic.twitter.com/UxWcrtJSno
Justin Pugh signing to the active roster is a major win for the Giants
Keeping Pugh in town simply had to be done. The former Big Blue first-round pick turned heads on Sunday night in the loss to the Bills. Pugh started the game at guard 'straight off the couch' and then he made his way to left tackle after Joshua Ezeudu went down with his toe injury.
Ezeudu has been placed on the Injured Reserve in yet another blow for the offensive line. Schoen was busy on Tuesday adding bodies up front, signing Tyre Phillips off the Eagles practice squad, while also bringing in Josh Miles off the Falcons practice squad.
With Phillips and Miles joining the group, plus Pugh quickly returning to the active roster as well, depth is certainly being addressed for the Giants. A big worry moving forward, however, continues to be the status for both LT Andrew Thomas and center John Michael Schmitz.
Thomas has been dealing with a hamstring injury and Schmitz hurt his shoulder on a 'tush push' play earlier this campaign. Both studs are needed back as soon as possible. Until they return, guys are going to have to step up for this offense. Thankfully, Pugh will be around to line up wherever Brian Daboll and offensive line coach Bobby Johnson need him.