New York Giants left tackle Andrew Thomas will miss the rest of the season due to surgery on his right foot, following a Lisfranc injury. Coach Brian Daboll confirmed the news on Wednesday after Thomas underwent a successful procedure.
Thomas sustained the injury late in the Giants’ 17-7 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. A Lisfranc injury involves damage to the small bones or ligaments in the middle of the foot, which can be serious and often requires surgery.
“You can’t replace an Andrew Thomas,” Daboll stated, expressing his sympathy for the player. He added that Thomas is not only a skilled football player but also a crucial leader in the locker room.
The Giants, currently at 2-4, have begun preparations for their upcoming home game against the Philadelphia Eagles (3-2). In Thomas’s absence, Jermaine Eluemunor is set to play right tackle, while Joshua Ezeudu will take over on the left side.
Daboll noted that Evan Neal, the starting right tackle since being drafted in 2022, may also be considered if the Giants opt to shift Eluemunor to the left tackle position. This would lead to either Neal or Ezeudu starting on the right side.
Eluemunor, who joined the Giants this offseason, has experience switching positions and recognizes the challenge it presents both mentally and physically. “It’s hard to adjust to a new role with little notice,” he said.
Neal has faced his own difficulties on the field, having missed much of last season and part of training camp due to ankle surgery. This marks the first time he hasn’t been a starter, and he aims to learn from the experience.
“I’m going to embrace this role and push my teammates,” Neal commented, showing determination despite the circumstances. Ezeudu, a third-round pick in 2022, has previous experience playing multiple positions and feels ready for the challenge ahead.
Daboll indicated that he will finalize the offensive line’s configuration by Friday before the game.
In addition, rookie wide receiver Malik Nabers has returned to practice in a non-contact red jersey after missing two games due to a concussion. His return signals progress, but he must still be cleared by an independent neurologist.
Nabers had been leading the league with 35 catches before his injury against Dallas on September 26. Daboll expressed optimism about Nabers’s recovery while ensuring that no undue pressure is placed on the player.