New York Giants center John Michael Schmitz had an up-and-down rookie campaign. There were moments he flashed and other moments he seemed entirely overwhelmed.
Toss in an injury that caused him to miss some time and Schmitz probably isn’t writing home about his first NFL season.
Still, at the center position, there weren’t many rookies who fared better. And for that reason, Bucky Brooks has named Schmitz to his 2023 NFL All-Rookie Team.
The scrappy pivot performed well as a first-year starter in the middle of the Giants’ line. Schmitz’s intelligence, athleticism and competitiveness showed up repeatedly as he held his own against the monstrous nose tackles opposite him.
Despite the praise from Brooks, Schmitz finished last among 37 qualifying centers with an overall Pro Football Focus grade of just 41.4. His pass blocking grade of 26.9 was also dead last among qualifying centers.
There were times throughout the season that Schmitz also appeared to lean heavily on guard Justin Pugh, who routinely tipped the snap.
Schmitz has a high ceiling and could be an anchor for the Giants in the future, but he’ll need to significantly improve in Year 2 if he wants to hang onto that job long-term.
