The New York Giants had vowed to sign an offensive lineman or two prior to their joint practices with the Cleveland Browns this week, but that did not occur.
As a result of forgoing additional signings, the Giants continue to operate with a lack of depth along the O-line. However, the good news is that reinforcements may be on the way.
Veteran offensive tackle Nate Solder, who returned this year on a reworked deal after opting out in 2020, has missed some time with a shoulder injury. But head coach Joe Judge says he’s trending in the right direction and the hope is that he returns soon.
“He’s actually doing well, moving at a good progress,” Judge told reporters on Friday. “We just felt this would be a good week to kind of let him go ahead and continue with that. We expect to get him back soon. He’s had a really good camp for us. I’m really proud of the way he’s working. I’m proud of the leadership he’s giving to our team.
“He’s come back – obviously, we’ve talked earlier in camp about him getting back in the swing of things, like every other player. I don’t think it took him long. He jumped right back on that horse and kept on riding. As soon as we can get him back out there, we will.”
Solder had been competing with Matt Peart for the job at right tackle prior to his injury, while also taking some snaps at left tackle and even right guard. He is currently the team’s projected swing tackle.
Even with Solder nearing his return, the Giants have issues along their offensive interior due to injury and retirement. They are widely expected to address that depth as more and more players around the league are released as teams slowly trim their roster down to 53 men.
