JIm O’Connor- USA TODAY Sports
We finish out looking at the New York Giants‘ offense with their offensive line — the guys in charge of opening those holes for the running backs; the guys who need to make sure Eli Manning isn’t flat on his back every time he tries to throw a pass. It’s a group that could undergo a serious transition over the next couple of seasons.
Back is starting left tackle Will Beatty, who really came into his own as one of the best left tackles in the game. The former second-round pick was finally able to stay healthy all year and prove why he was chosen. He’s also the only member of the starting offensive line who’s younger than 30. At the other tackle right now is David Diehl, who had to take a pay-cut to return to the club and really struggled last year for the most part. He could be pushed by former pick James Brewer.
Back at the guards are Chris Snee and Kevin Boothe but for how long? Snee is coming off hip surgery and could retire after this season and Boothe was only kept for one more season. Can their bodies hold up? Back at center is Dave Baas, who has battled injuries himself in the past year, but is a guy that is tough as nails.
The Giants could certainly add an offensive lineman or two in the draft. Chance Warmack could be there at 19 for them or they could wait and one or two mid-round guys instead. Either way, this team needs to start adding some youth moving forward to help as this unit goes under a transition in the years to come.
