The Struggles and Progress of the Giants’ Offensive Line
The New York Giants had one of the most beleaguered offensive lines in the NFL for the majority of the 2023 season. The unit’s inability to protect the quarterback or open running lanes consistently hampered the team’s offensive performance. However, there was a notable uptick in 2024, despite Pro Bowl left tackle Andrew Thomas missing 11 starts due to injury. With Thomas’s return and a full season of health, the Giants are optimistic about improving their line in 2025. Yet, to achieve an above-average unit, the team may need to upgrade at least one starting position. One potential target is Will Fries, a highly regarded free agent offensive lineman.
On-Field Ability: A Promising Prospect
Will Fries, despite being a seventh-round pick, has shown significant promise and development. He spent the first part of his NFL career as a backup but quickly settled into a starting role with the Indianapolis Colts. By his third season, Fries was a mainstay, starting every game. Last year, he demonstrated an even higher level of play before a season-ending injury in October. Fries boasts impressive size and strength, paired with the agility and movement skills necessary for both pass protection and run blocking. While the Colts’ run scheme is primarily zone-based, and the Giants tend to favor more gap and power plays, Fries’s adaptability should allow him to fit seamlessly into New York’s system. According to Pro Football Focus, he was grading out as one of the top guards in the league at the time of his injury, ranking 2nd overall and 5th in run blocking after five games.
A Player on the Rise: Room for Growth
Fries’s trajectory is a testament to his potential. Despite his late-round draft status, he has shown consistent improvement each year and is still only 26 years old, far from peaking. His performance in the early part of the 2024 season was particularly noteworthy, indicating that he is on the rise. This upward trend suggests that Fries could be a valuable asset for the Giants, contributing to the team’s long-term success. The key for the Giants will be to secure his services during free agency, which could be challenging given the strong market for his talent.
Positional Flexibility: A Versatile Option
While Fries has primarily played right guard in the NFL, his college experience included some time at tackle. This versatility is an attractive quality for the Giants, who have a solid player in Jermaine Eluemunor, capable of starting at both tackle and guard. If Thomas returns to his left tackle role, Eluemunor could slide over to right tackle, creating a strong, experienced lineup. This flexibility, combined with the presence of left guard Jon Runyan Jr. and center John Michael Schmitz, could give the Giants a cohesive and resilient offensive line.
Potential Cost: A High-Price Tag
The primary obstacle in signing Fries is the expected cost. Free agent projections suggest that he could command a contract worth upwards of $14 million per year. The Colts are reportedly eager to extend his stay, and there’s strong interest from other teams like the Bears and Vikings. This competitive market could drive the price even higher. While the Giants have the cap flexibility to make competitive offers, the financial commitment required to sign Fries is significant. The team will need to weigh the potential impact he could have on the offensive line against other financial priorities.
Injury Recovery and Experience: Concerns to Consider
Fries’s recovery from a serious leg injury in 2024 is a cause for concern. He fractured his tibia in October and underwent season-ending surgery. Although reports indicate he is expected to make a full recovery, the injury raises questions about his durability moving forward. Prior to the injury, Fries had been durable, with 42 starts in college and over 1,100 offensive snaps in 2023. Teams will be hoping that the 2024 injury was an isolated incident and won’t lead to ongoing issues. Additionally, Fries’s relatively short experience as a full-time starter could make some teams cautious about committing to such a large contract. However, his early success and upward trajectory suggest that these risks may be worth taking for a team looking to significantly improve their offensive line.
Verdict: A Strategic Decision
Signing Will Fries could elevate the Giants’ offensive line to a new level, providing the team with a player on the rise who has the potential to be a cornerstone for the next few seasons. The financial commitment required is substantial, but the Giants have the cap flexibility to make competitive offers. The challenge will be convincing Fries and his representatives that the Giants are headed in the right direction and are a desirable destination. If the Giants can secure Fries, they could set the stage for a more formidable and competitive offensive line in 2025 and beyond.
