It’s no mystery what defines the New York Giants year after year — it all starts (and often ends) with the performance of the offensive line.
Regardless of who’s taking the snaps, nothing works unless the guys up front do. And in 2025, one often-overlooked lineman suddenly finds himself at the center of it all — literally and figuratively.
John Michael Schmitz may not make headlines, but the Giants need him to become a cornerstone.
Drafted in the second round two years ago to solidify the center position for the long haul, Schmitz has faced more chaos than consistency. Shuffled guards, rotating quarterbacks, and constant injuries have made it nearly impossible for him to settle into a groove — like trying to set the table in the middle of an earthquake.
Yet despite the disorder, the 26-year-old logged 983 snaps last season. He allowed 28 pressures and six sacks — not ideal numbers, but not the whole story either.
A more stable quarterback could change everything.
Enter Russell Wilson. The veteran QB brings composure, experience, and leadership — qualities that could unlock Schmitz’s full potential.
With Wilson’s command of the offense, pre-snap communication, defensive recognition, and protection calls should all improve — an ideal setup for a high-IQ center like Schmitz, whose strengths lie in processing and anticipation.
John Michael Schmitz
And according to those around him, the growth is already showing.
Veteran guard Greg Van Roten, who lines up beside Schmitz, has seen his evolution firsthand.
“I love playing next to John,” Van Roten said. “He’s a really, really smart center, and he’s gotten better every year.”
“This is year three — it’s time to level up. I think he’s the guy.”
Now, it’s do-or-die time.
If Schmitz doesn’t take a step forward this season, the Giants won’t hesitate to look elsewhere in 2026. They’ll have the resources and the urgency to pursue a veteran replacement.
But if he rises to the occasion and delivers steady, reliable play, Schmitz could finally stabilize a long-troubled offensive line — and cement his place as a key building block in New York.
He doesn’t need to be a star. Just steady, available, and smart — snap after snap. That alone could be the turning point the Giants’ line has been waiting for.
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