3. Does OL Bobby Hart Crack The First Team Offensive Line?
With Ereck Flowers (22 years old), Justin Pugh (25), and Weston Richburg (24), anchoring the left side of the offensive line, the Giants are likely set for years at these three positions. However, the right side of the offensive line is far from set.
Last season, the Giants went with the highly scrutinized duo of veteran swingmen John Jerry and Marshall Newhouse to man the right side of the offensive line. Although the line held its own in pass protection (T-4th fewest sacks allowed), the unit struggled in run blocking—especially the right side.
After failing to address this side of the line through free agency, and failing to draft an offensive lineman for the first time in several years, the right side of the line is still a major question mark for this otherwise strong offense.
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As of now, the duo of Jerry at RG and Newhouse at RT seem slated to once again anchor the right side of the line. However, second year lineman Bobby Hart would beg to differ. Last year’s seventh round pick out of Florida State has emerged as a potential candidate to replace either veteran on the depth chart. He has experience playing both right tackle and right guard, but most project him at right guard due to his struggles against speedy edge rushers.
Last season, Hart held his own in pass protection but struggled in run blocking in limited action at right guard. There were times where he looked completely comfortable, but also times where he displayed poor technique and footwork. He looks to improve upon his limited 2015 campaign this season.
After a full offseason of training, it will be worth watching whether Hart can overtake either of the incumbents and add another youthful piece to the offensive line.
