New York Giants David Diehl set to retire if not re-signed
New York Giants tackle David Diehl (66) during training camp at the Quest Diagnostic Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Jim O
The New York Giants biggest need this offseason is on the offensive line, as their line is far too old and far too ineffective to carry on as-is. The Giants desperately need to make some big changes and overhaul most of the line, because it’s clearly had a huge effect on the play of the entire offense. Eli Manning has made major mistakes this season due to bad blocking up front, and running backs like Andre Brown just don’t have much running room due to the poor blocking.
Veteran offensive lineman David Diehl has been part of the problem this year, and it’s clear that the 33-year-old just doesn’t have it anymore. Heck, the former All-Pro caliber tackle has been terrible for a few years now, and he’s been living off of reputation ever since his decline started. He’s been through a lot of wear-and-tear in this league as an 11-year pro out of Illinois, and it’s time for the Giants to cut ties with him and others in an effort to get younger and better on the line.
The writing seems to be on the wall for Diehl, who has had to play at guard due to his decline, and it sounds like Diehl will retire if the Giants decide not to bring him back for another seasons. He said, via Ebenezer Samuel of the New York Daily News, “If this is it for me, I can walk away with my head held high and not look back without any regrets. I’ve accomplished more than anybody can dream of. And to be able to be here with one team and one organization for 11 years… this has been my family for the last 11 years.”
That’s an awesome, heart-felt statement from a guy who has been a great leader for the Giant organization over the past several years, and Diehl certainly has accomplished a lot. I mean, he did win two Super Bowl rings, so there isn’t much for him to regret if he does decide to retire. Retiring with the Giants would definitely be a fitting end for Diehl, though it would have been more fitting if the Giants had a better year and made the playoffs.