Giants' Roster Breakdown: Eric Herman, OG

Can offensive guard Eric Herman take a step forward and make the New York Giants' 53-man roster this season? Let's look at Herman as we continue our player-by-player profiles of the 90-man roster the Giants will bring to training camp beginning July 21.

2013 Season In Review

The Giants drafted the powerful 6-foot-4, 320-pound Herman from Ohio, hoping he would add depth to an offensive line in need of young talent. Herman spent the season the Giants' practice squad until being added to the 53-man roster for the season finale against the Washington Redskins. Herman did not play in the game. Herman's biggest struggle during the 2013 preseason came in pass protection, something he will have to improve upon to remain in the NFL.

2014 Season Outlook

The Giants, of course, made adding depth to their offensive line an offseason priority. Geoff Schwartz replaced Kevin Boothe at left guard. J.D. Walton and second-round pick Weston Richburg are new at center. The Giants hope Chris Snee returns at right guard. They added former Miami Dolphins starting guard John Jerry for depth, and still have Brandon Mosley, James Brewer and Dallas Reynolds. Richburg has also been working some at guard. Thus, the deck appears stacked against Herman.

With the Giants in shorts and t-shirts in non-contact practices during OTAs and mini-camp it was impossible to tell if Herman's pass-blocking had improved. He will have training camp and five preseason games to show the Giants he can be more than a practice squad player.