SI names Giants’ Andrew Thomas a potential first-time Pro Bowler

New York Giants left tackle Andrew Thomas has turned out to be one of the team’s best pieces in recent years and is arguably the best player on the current roster.

Although the Giants have been attempting and failing to fix the offensive line for years, Thomas was one choice the organization got right.

After a rough rookie year, when he was selected fourth overall in the 2020 NFL draft, Thomas has blossomed into one of the Giants’ best pieces.

Sports Illustrated has pinpointed the Giants’ left tackle as a possible first-time Pro Bowler for the second straight year.

Andrew Thomas, offensive tackle, New York Giants, fifth season

Thomas was on my list last year. Rarely do you see a stalwart anchor tackle in a big market who has had second-team All-Pro honors not have a Pro Bowl to his name. Thomas, unfortunately, was injured last year and the Giants’ offensive line suffered massively from an optical standpoint due to a few really bad performances. Like the Jacksonville Jaguars’ defense, I think the Giants’ offensive line is in for a big perception shift thanks to a coaching change. Evan Neal and John Michael-Schmitz Jr. are highly drafted young players who need a lifeline and must collectively improve in order to buoy this offense. If that happens, a lot of the credit also needs to go to Thomas.

This isn’t the first time or place that Thomas has been tabbed as primed to grab his first Pro Bowl this offseason.

The Giants’ offensive line is expected to be much improved this season but health will go a long way toward the unit’s success. Thomas is no different as injuries held him to just 10 games played last season.

If he can stay healthy this season, maybe — just maybe — Thomas will finally get that very first and well-deserved Pro Bowl nod.