Full Breakdown
Andrew Thomas Makes Limited Return for Giants Against Chiefs
9/22/2025, 11:19:51 AM
Andrew Thomas' Comeback After Injury
The New York Giants welcomed back left tackle Andrew Thomas during their Week 3 matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs, marking his first game since suffering a Lisfranc injury in Week 6 of the 2024 season. Thomas, the No. 4 overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft and a second-team All-Pro in 2022, played a limited role, logging approximately 25 to 26 snaps in the Giants' 22-9 loss to the Chiefs on September 21, 2025. Head coach Brian Daboll confirmed that the plan was to ease Thomas back into action, stating, “We were gonna give him 25 plays, so that’s what we gave him.”
Thomas had undergone multiple surgeries on his foot, including a procedure to remove screws earlier this year. His absence had been felt significantly, as the Giants had a dismal record of 3-17 in games without him over the past two seasons. The offensive line had struggled, particularly in the first two games of the season, where fill-in left tackle James Hudson III faced criticism for his performance, leading to rookie Marcus Mbow stepping in during Week 2.
Impact of Thomas' Return
Thomas' return was crucial for the Giants, who were seeking their first win of the season after starting 0-2. His presence was expected to stabilize the offensive line and improve both pass protection and the running game. Thomas expressed his excitement about returning, saying, “It felt great. I missed football. I had fun out there. Obviously, would have loved to get the win, but it’s progress.”
The Giants' offensive struggles were evident, with quarterback Russell Wilson being sacked five times in the first two games. Thomas' ability to neutralize elite pass rushers was seen as vital against a Chiefs defense known for its pressure. The Giants hoped that Thomas could help establish a more balanced offensive attack, especially in the running game, which had been inconsistent without him.
Official Statements & Responses
The Giants' coaching staff emphasized the importance of managing Thomas' workload carefully. Daboll noted, “My understanding is he’s fine. Now it’s the next step, ramp up and get some more.” Thomas himself remained cautious about predicting his future participation, stating, “I won’t make any predictions. We’ll see how it responds tomorrow, and we’ll talk about the plan.”
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the optimism surrounding Thomas' return, some analysts questioned the decision to play him in a limited capacity during such a critical game. The Giants' 0-2 start heightened the stakes, leading to concerns about whether Thomas should have been eased back into action more gradually. Critics argued that rushing him back could risk further injury, especially given the long-term investment the Giants made in his five-year, $117.5 million contract extension.
What's Next
Looking ahead, the Giants will continue to monitor Thomas' health and performance as they prepare for upcoming games. The coaching staff is expected to evaluate his readiness for a full workload in future matchups, particularly as they aim to turn their season around. The team remains hopeful that Thomas can regain his form and contribute significantly as they seek to improve their record.
