Giants offensive line will likely be down two starters against Raiders

The Giants did not practice Christmas Day, but their projected injury report does not bode well for their offensive line continuity for Sunday’s game against the Raiders in Las Vegas.

The projection states that left tackle Andrew Thomas (hamstring) and center John Michael Schmitz Jr. (hand) would not have practiced for a second straight day.

It is likely both will miss this next game, meaning two-fifths of the offensive line will be made up of backups to face a defensive front that includes relentless Maxx Crosby and his 10 sacks this season.

The replacement for Thomas would be rookie Marcus Mbow, who would make his second NFL start.

The fifth-round pick from Purdue started Week 9 against the 49ers at right tackle in place of Jermaine Eluemunor. Mbow played 51 snaps in Week 2 in Dallas at left tackle after James Hudson III was benched.

Andrew Thomas of the New York Giants reacts on the sideline during the second half at Gillette Stadium, Monday, Dec.. 1, 2025. Corey Sipkin for the NY POST

At center, Austin Schlottmann would get the call. A seven-year veteran, he has two starts this season filling in for Schmitz — Week 7 in Denver and Week 10 at Chicago.

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Center John Michael Schmitz Jr. of the New York Giants is all smiles on the field during warm-ups before the first half at MetLife Stadium, Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025, in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Corey Sipkin for the NY POST

Starting safety Tyler Nubin (neck) also would not have practiced. Nubin last week scooped up a loose ball from a Brian Burns strip-sack and ran for a 27-yard touchdown in a 16-13 loss to the Vikings.

Dane Belton has started games when Nubin has been out.

Also projected to miss practice: DL D.J. Davidson (neck/concussion), OL Evan Neal (neck) and DL Rakeem Nuñez-Roches (ankle/toe).