Andrew Thomas Benched by Giants Despite Clearing Concussion Protocol
The star offensive lineman expressed confusion over the decision to keep him on the sideline after a required evaluation.
New York Giants left tackle Andrew Thomas was unexpectedly benched for the remainder of Sunday's game against the New Orleans Saints, despite clearing the concussion protocol. The decision left Thomas, considered one of the NFL's top left tackles, confused as he watched his team attempt a comeback from the sideline.
The sequence began when Thomas felt slow getting up after a play in the third quarter. Officials then mandated he undergo concussion protocol testing, which he completed successfully. However, he was not allowed back onto the field. Rookie J.C. Davis replaced him for his first career game.
"That was interesting," Thomas said after the 34-27 loss. "The series before, I got up a little slow. When I went out there the next drive, they said I had to do the concussion protocol testing." He added, "That was the coach's decision. I listen to what the coach says."
Thomas was also playing through an injured groin, though he indicated he felt well. The Giants' offensive line faced further disruption with right tackle Jermaine Eluemunor being a surprise scratch due to a calf injury, despite limited practice participation earlier in the week.
The Giants' injury woes extended to other positions. Cornerback Greg Newsome II also suffered a concussion and did not return. Wide receiver Darnell Mooney was sidelined with a neck injury, leaving the team with only three healthy receivers. Reserve right guard Sisi Mauigoa required a postgame X-ray for an unspecified injury, though he expressed confidence in his swift return.
At safety, Jason Pinnock and Ar'Darius Washington rotated due to Tyler Nubin's absence with a neck injury. Pinnock forced a critical fumble in the fourth quarter, which briefly shifted momentum as the Giants trailed 34-10 with just over nine minutes remaining.
The Giants' offense, particularly quarterback J.J. McCarthy, showed a late surge. McCarthy entered the game with 11:31 left after Jameis Winston threw his second interception. McCarthy completed 11 of 21 passes for 243 yards, adding 26 rushing yards, a touchdown pass, and one interception. His fourth-quarter passing yardage was the second-highest single-game total for a Giants quarterback in that quarter, trailing only Eli Manning's 254 yards against the Seahawks on Oct. 9, 2011.