Andrew Thomas on the Verge of Return as Giants Prepare for Showdown with Chiefs
New York Giants left tackle Andrew Thomas is showing promising signs of making his long-awaited return to the field, eyeing a spot in the lineup for Week 3. This marks the possibility of his first regular-season appearance since suffering a Lisfranc injury back in Week 5 of the previous season.
Positive Progress in Practice
Head coach Brian Daboll has indicated that Thomas will take on a heavier workload in practice this week. He noted, “I’d say he will take a good amount of reps today,” following a series of limited practices. This week’s training marks a significant step for Thomas, who had been activated off the physically unable to perform (PUP) list last month. Last Wednesday, he did not participate in practice, but he followed up with limited participation on Thursday and Friday.
For Thomas to be cleared for the Sunday night matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs, consistent participation throughout the week is crucial. If he is unable to play, the Giants are likely to turn to rookie Marcus Mbow, who has been making waves in his recent performances.
Rookie Standout and Alternatives
Mbow made a solid impression in his debut, playing 50 snaps out of 65 (76.9%) in the previous game while allowing just two pressures on 36 pass-blocking attempts. This pressure rate ranks among the lowest for left tackles this season, showcasing Mbow’s potential to fill in effectively if needed.
In the event that both Thomas and Mbow are unavailable, veteran James Hudson III would be next in line. However, Hudson’s recent struggles during the opening series last week could keep him on the sidelines, making Mbow’s continued development all the more crucial for the Giants’ offensive line.
Injury Concerns Extend Beyond Thomas
The Giants are also facing injury uncertainties with linebackers Darius Muasau and Demtrius Flannigan-Fowles. Neither was present during the media-accessible portion of Wednesday’s practice, raising questions about their availability for Sunday. If they cannot go, Swayze Bozeman, recently promoted from the practice squad, is expected to step in alongside Bobby Okereke. This comes after Chris Board was placed on injured reserve due to a chest injury.
Additionally, defensive lineman Chauncey Golston is being monitored after sustaining an ankle injury in the Week 2 loss to Dallas. Rakeem Nunez-Roches, who was seen in a walking boot last week, was also absent from Wednesday’s practice.
Injury Report Snapshot
As the Giants gear up for their crucial game, here’s a brief look at the current injury status of key players:
Andrew Thomas: Foot – Limited
Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles: Calf – Did Not Participate (DNP)
Rakeem Nunez-Roches: Foot – Limited
Darius Muasau: Concussion/Eye – DNP
Chauncey Golston: Ankle – DNP
Gunner Olszewski: Back – Limited
Wan’Dale Robinson: Foot – Limited
Jon Runyan Jr.: Back – Limited
John Michael Schmitz: Toe – Limited
Darius Slayton: Groin/Calf – Limited
Tyrone Tracy Jr.: Calf – Limited
Roy Robertson-Harris: Knee – Full
Cam Skattebo: Ankle – Full
As the Giants prepare for their Sunday night clash with the Chiefs, all eyes will be on Thomas and the rest of the injury report. The team’s depth and resilience will be tested against a formidable opponent, making this a pivotal week for the franchise.
