New York Giants: All Time Giants Offensive Line/Part 2
By Michael Stewart @golferbad
In Part 2 of this series “All-Time Giants” we’ll take a look at the Giants Offensive Line. Historically; the Giants trademark usually features the Defensive side of the ball and the occasional Offensive skill positions. However; the Giants have had several multiple Pro Bowlers and even Hall of Famers on the Offensive line. There were many to choose from and once again my list is very debatable, so let’s see my all time OL:
Offensive Line
RT-Roosevelt Brown (1953-1965): If Lawrence Taylor was the best 1st round pick in Giants history, Then Roosevelt Brown was the best draft pick in Giants history. Brown was taken in the 27th round in the 1953 draft out of Morgan State. Brown was not your typical OL as he was arguably the best conditioned player on the Giants team and built more like a linebacker. Brown made 9 Pro Bowls (Giant record for OL) and was equally dominant as a run blocker and a pass protector. Brown was inducted into the Football Hall of Fame.
RG-Chris Snee (2004-2013): Snee played his entire career with the Giants and was a 4x Pro Bowler. Snee was a dominant player on the field and only missed a total of 6 games in 10 seasons; despite having many injuries that would have kept anyone else on the sidelines.
C-Mel Hein (1931-1945): Hein became the 1st offensive lineman to win MVP honors and never missed a game during his Hall of Fame career with the Giants. Hein also was a dominant MLB for the Giants as he played both offense and defense. Hein was arguably the fastest linemen in his time and he utilized that speed and quickness on his opponents.
LG-Jack Stroud(1953-1964): Only true Giant fans would know the name of Jack Stroud who played 13 seasons for the Giants and made 3 Pro Bowl appearances. Stroud also played OT, but for the majority of his career with the Giants was at OG. Stroud was part of six conference titles and one Championship. Stroud played with a mean streak and an endless motor; and a true blue collar mentality.
LT-Jim (Jumbo) Elliott (1988-1995): The selection of Elliott was not an easy one, despite his contributions with the Giants. I was debating between him and David Diehl, as both had very similar careers in a Giants uniform. Eventually; my decision to select Elliot came down to his personal achievements over Diehl. Elliott made the Pro Bowl in 1993, although many sports writers at the time felt he should have made at least 3. Elliot was a pure LT in every sense of the word and protected the QB’s blind side with high consistency.
Final Thoughts: Although the Giants OL historically is rarely mentioned when you think about the great Giant teams throughout their long history. The above selections are proof that the Giants have had many great players on the offensive line. Perhaps a member on the current OL on the Giants will one day be mentioned as possible Giant great. At this point, not likely; but we can always hope. Next article: All Time Giants Defensive Front 7.