Following the New York Giants’ first preseason game last Friday, it’s pretty evident that there is a lack of depth along the offensive line.
While there is still time before the season starts, a reunion with a former Giant could be just what the doctor ordered for Big Blue. After all, Justin Pugh remains a free agent and was recently cleared to begin positional drills as he recovers from a torn ACL.
As a guest on the Talkin’ Ball podcast with Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News earlier this week, Pugh was asked about the possibility of signing with one of the New York teams.
— Justin Pugh (@JustinPugh) August 15, 2023
“100 percent. I mean, the Giants are one of the teams that I am definitely eyeing — there’s no denying that,” Pugh said. “I’ve mentioned it on Twitter before. It’s where I started my career (and) I would love to finish it there but they also have things in their organization that they had to get figured out.
“They had a lot of contracts this offseason that they had to get squared away. They have some younger offensive linemen who they brought in who are really good players and they wanted to see them go out there and see what they can do. So, we still have a ways to go and how that shakes out, but I do love my New York Giants. I’m still a big supporter. I watch from afar.”
Pugh hasn’t been shy about his admiration for the Giants. He also believes they are trending in the right direction and they remain among the “upper echelon” of organizations.
New York selected Pugh 19th overall in the 2013 NFL draft and he played the first five years of his career with the Giants before signing with the Arizona Cardinals in 2018.
General manager Joe Schoen will certainly do his due diligence on the former first-round pick and if he believes Pugh can bring value to the team at this point in his career, a reunion may be in order.
“Yes, there has been conversations with teams. I’ve actually spoken with six teams at this point. It seems like after the preseason games happen, a few more teams reach out so we will see how the next few weeks go,” Pugh added. “Really looking to sign with one of those teams that’s at the top echelon — playoff contention last year, has a chance to make a step this next year and I can really come in and add value to that team.
“Not really looking for a rebuild where I have to come in and mentor a rookie quarterback. You know, looking for that team that is looking for a few pieces, needs some depth on the O-Line. I know wherever I go, I’m going to end up starting — it’s just if you look at it, offensive linemen don’t grow on trees.”
The Giants do have an open competition at guard right now…
