The New York Giants enter the 2026 NFL free agency period with a clear need to bolster their offensive line, particularly along the interior, as they aim to build a more competitive roster under new head coach John Harbaugh.

Among the players to monitor in this class is guard Alijah Vera-Tucker, a talented but injury-prone lineman currently with the New York Jets, reports Connor Hughes of SNY.

Players to monitor include cornerback Jamel Dean, linebacker Tremaine Edmunds and guard Alijah Vera-Tucker. The Giants are also keen on tight end Isaiah Likely.

Vera-Tucker, selected 14th overall by the Jets in the 2021 NFL draft out of USC, has shown elite potential when healthy. The 6-foot-5, 308-pound lineman earned PFWA All-Rookie honors in 2021 after starting all 16 games at left guard and has demonstrated versatility by starting at both guard spots and even tackle positions during his career. He has started all 43 games he has played, showcasing strong run-blocking and pass protection skills.

However, Vera-Tucker is a high-risk, high-reward option. Injuries have plagued him, including a torn triceps in 2022 that ended his season early, a torn Achilles in 2023 that sidelined him for most of the year, and another torn triceps in 2025 training camp that caused him to miss the entire last season. These setbacks have limited his availability and could impact his market value.

ESPN’s Jordan Raanan and Giants Nation Show’s Bobby Skinner have both noted the Giants’ interest in Vera-Tucker as a potential target to address their interior line needs. While his talent could provide a significant upgrade, his health history makes any pursuit a calculated gamble for Big Blue.

This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: Alijah Vera-Tucker a player to watch for New York Giants