Kevin Gilbride is no longer calling plays for Eli Manning, but the Giants’ former offensive coordinator still has the quarterback’s back.
Following a national discussion questioning whether the two-time Super Bowl MVP’s career has already started declining, Gilbride called the debate “ludicrous.” Manning also had arthroscopic surgery last week on the left ankle he injured in the Giants’ season finale.
“I think he’s gonna be fine as long as the supporting cast, he’s not a guy that can solve problems with his feet,” Gilbride said on “Pro Football Talk” on NBC Sports. “You have to give him a line, give him some time. He’s gonna throw the ball to the right person, and he’s gonna throw it accurately.
“There’s been no deterioration of his arm strength, there’s been no lack of preparation and effort. I think he’s gonna be fine as soon as they solidify the offensive line … and as soon as they get somebody who is going to be productive for them as an outside receiver.”
Manning led the NFL with 27 interceptions last season, while completing 57.5 percent of his passes — his lowest rate since 2007. The 33-year-old franchise quarterback had little help, though, with the team facing numerous injuries to the offensive line, backfield and receiving corps, which included a banged-up Hakeem Nicks recording zero touchdowns.
Though Gilbride does not believe that Manning is in decline, he did mention that the Giants should bring in Matt Flynn as a backup because he is a “natural fit,” having worked under new offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo in Green Bay.
But Flynn, who had been scheduled to visit the Giants, agreed Tuesday to return to the Packers. Josh Freeman also was slated to work out for the Giants.