Giants LT Andrew Thomas rewarded with rare big-man TD vs. Bucs upon return from IR

A former first-round draft pick coming off injured reserve scored the New York Giants' only touchdown on Monday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

It wasn't Saquon Barkley. In fact, it was a guy who has never scored an NFL touchdown.

The Giants broke through for a 10-10 tie early in the second quarter thanks to a touchdown pass from Daniel Jones to left tackle Andrew Thomas. The second-year pro lined up in his normal spot in pass protection on second-and-goal at the 2-yard line. But he didn't stay there.

Thomas chipped defensive lineman Patrick O'Connor before letting him run free at Jones. Meanwhile, he slipped wide open into the end zone, and Jones lofted a pass his way after faking a handoff to Barkley just as the Bucs' pass rush arrived. Thomas reached up for the high pass to make a nice grab that he secured as he fell to the turf. Big-man touchdown secured.

And in case you're wondering, yes he was eligible.

It was the offensive highlight for the Giants, who eventually lost 30-10 to the Bucs.

Thomas hadn't played since foot and ankle injuries landed him on injured reserve after Week 6. With all eyes on Barkley in his return, the Giants dialed up some trickery to land the left tackle on the highlight reel in prime time.