Jon Runyan Jr. signed a two-year extension that keeps him with the Giants through 2028. The timing is interesting. New York did not wait until the season was underway to make a commitment to its left guard.
Runyan has started 29 games at left guard over the past two seasons. He is not the player fans will lead with when they talk about Sunday night, but the Giants clearly see him as a stabilizing piece for a line that has needed some continuity.
Last season's rushing attack finished fifth in the league with 2,195 yards, fourth in first downs, and tied for fourth with 22 rushing touchdowns. Runyan was part of that, and the Giants are betting he can keep the floor of the offense from dropping when the games get rough.
I do not think a new deal means the line is suddenly finished. It does mean the Giants were comfortable enough with their evaluation to put a real vote of confidence behind one of its most important interior spots.
Jon Runyan Jr. blocks for Jaxson Dart in Denver. Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images via Reuters Connect
Dart is entering a season where the offense expects him to take more control. That cannot happen if the pocket gets pushed back every time the defense brings interior pressure.
Runyan does not have to be a Pro Bowl player for the extension to make sense. The Giants need him to be dependable, communicate well with the center and tackle, and help keep the run game from becoming an afterthought.
There are still plenty of reasons to watch the offensive line Sunday. Dallas has added pass-rush talent, and the opener will expose mistakes quickly.
But the Giants did not make this move as a favor. They made it because Runyan has become part of the group they want protecting their quarterback for the next three seasons.
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