Giants Elevate Bryan Hudson to Starting Center Role

The New York Giants are continuing with Bryan Hudson at center, bypassing John Michael Schmitz for the starting role after Hudson's impressive first career start. Hudson, an undrafted player who joined the Giants in November 2024, did not allow a single quarterback pressure on 37 pass-blocking snaps in the team's recent game against the Cardinals.

"He’s always done a great job with us, so we were not surprised by the way he played," offensive coordinator Matt Nagy said of Hudson's performance. "We just have to keep that going. We needed that, and there were some really good clips in there that he did in both run and pass."

Hudson was initially in a training camp battle with Lucas Patrick for the backup center position six weeks ago. Now, both Hudson and Patrick are slated to start for opposing teams in an upcoming game. Schmitz, a 2023 second-round pick, had been the primary starter, beginning 44 consecutive games when healthy.

While Schmitz was active for the game, the Giants opted to stick with Hudson due to his familiarity with the week's game plan. "There’s a lot of things I want to clean up to make it easier on the other four guys – the communication from my end can be better," Hudson told The Post. "But I feel like, all-around, it was a good start for me."

Left tackle Andrew Thomas praised Hudson's play, stating, "Huddy is an incredibly smart player. Though last week was his first start, I think he’s a lot more mature than how many opportunities he’s had. He’s only going to get better."

Hudson acknowledged his close relationship with Schmitz, describing them as "best friends on the team." He emphasized his role as a prepared backup: "In the role I’ve been in, I’m there to help him any way I can and be as prepared as I can so if anything happens... I’m able to step in and make it seamless as can be."

Beyond this season, Hudson is under team control as an exclusive rights free agent in 2027. This continuity could allow the Giants to potentially return all five starting offensive linemen if Hudson solidifies his position. The team also benefits from Hudson's established rapport with quarterback Jameis Winston, stemming from two years of working together on the second-team offense.