The New York Giants have several talented players on their roster but one of the best is left tackle Andrew Thomas, who had the best season of his short career in 2022 — and it’s possible there’s still room for improvement.
Recently, Bleacher Report ranked eight players primed to make an All-Pro leap in 2023 and Thomas was the offensive lineman named on the list.
Andrew Thomas struggled through his rookie campaign, but now Pro Football Focus recognizes him as one of the top NFL players who’s 25 years old or younger.
According to Pro Football Focus, the 24-year-old surrendered just three sacks and only committed two penalties while taking 1,049 offensive snaps in 2022.
Even before head coach Brian Daboll and offensive coordinator Mike Kafka arrived in East Rutherford, New Jersey, Thomas made strides between his rookie and second pro seasons. He could reach his full potential at an All-Pro level with continuity in the Giants’ offensive system.
Furthermore, New York has signed quarterback Daniel Jones to a multiyear extension and added multiple pass-catchers, including tight end Darren Waller (via trade with the Las Vegas Raiders), rookie third-rounder Jalin Hyatt, Jamison Crowder and Parris Campbell.
If Jones shows some improvement in the passing game, Thomas may get some of the spotlight as his top offensive lineman.
Thomas earned Second-Team All-Pro honors in 2022 but one could argue that he deserved a first-team nod. Either way, his 2022 campaign made it a no-brainer for general manager Joe Schoen to pick up his fifth-year option this offseason.
After struggles in his rookie year, many worried whether or not Thomas would be a bust of a draft pick for Big Blue. However, he has clearly turned things around and become one of the Giants’ most valuable chips to build around.
Thomas will anchor what should be a much improved offensive line in 2023, which includes the addition of center John Michael Schmitz and the expected development of right tackle Evan Neal.
Following the leap to elite status he took in 2022, it would certainly not be a surprise to see Thomas take another leap earning First-Team All-Pro honors in 2023.
