Daniel Faalele trade: What the Giants’ guard depth looks like now
Which player or players can take advantage of the fact that a roster spot just opened up?
Following the surprise trade of Daniel Faalele, the New York Giants' guard depth has significantly altered. The 32-year-old, now a member of the Jacksonville Jaguars, was initially expected to fill the swing guard role alongside Jon Runyan Jr. and Francis Mauigoa. However, the Giants now have several options for their backup guards.
Firstly is Aaron Stinnie, the 32-year-old guard who has been with the Giants for nine seasons. Notably, Stinnie does not generate much excitement, but he is precisely what NFL coaches seek in backup players – experienced, capable, and ready to step in at any moment. He has a total of 16 starts in 64 NFL regular-season games, including four starts with the Giants in the past two seasons.
Josh Ezeudu, who was drafted by the Giants as a guard in 2022, hasn’t been given a significant role in recent seasons. He primarily played tackle, struggled with injuries, and spent a significant part of last season on injured reserve. However, his value has increased following Faalele's departure, mainly because he can play multiple positions.
Jake Kubas, an undrafted free agent who has been working with a new coaching staff, has had his chances dwindle throughout the spring and early part of the summer. However, injuries to John Michael Schmitz and Lucas Patrick opened up opportunities. During last week's practice, Kubas had 10 snaps at center and 11 at left guard, earning a grade of 78.8 and a 100% pass-blocking efficiency score in ten pass-blocking snaps, according to Pro Football Focus. His performance in one-on-one blocking/rushing drills on Tuesday further solidified his potential.
Evan Neal, though not initially thought to make the 53-man roster following Faalele's trade, remains on the roster. With one fewer competitor, Neal's chances seem to have improved. During Tuesday's practice, Neal was still working with the third team behind Stinnie and Ezeudu. While PFF did not grade him as highly as Kubas, Neal still managed a 100% pass-blocking efficiency score in nine pass-blocking opportunities.
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