Giants' Solder opts out of season, citing cancer history

New York Giants left tackle Nate Solder is opting out of the 2020 season due to his history with cancer and the associated health risks with COVID-19, he announced Wednesday.

Solder battled testicular cancer in 2015 and has a young son at home fighting cancer. Hudson Solder was diagnosed with cancerous tumors in both of his kidneys as an infant and undergoes chemotherapy regularly. The Solder family also welcomed another baby boy in the spring.

"We have great respect for Nate as a person and player," said Giants general manager Dave Gettleman, who has also dealt with cancer. "When he called today, I told him it is faith, family, and football. He is doing what's best for his family."

The Giants signed Solder to a four-year, $62-million contract in 2018, which at the time made him the highest-paid offensive lineman in the NFL. He struggled to play up to expectations over his first two seasons in New York.

Without Solder, the Giants figure to move fourth overall pick Andrew Thomas into the starting lineup at left tackle. Thomas was more likely to begin the season at right tackle had Solder decided to play.

Solder, 32, won two Super Bowl titles with the New England Patriots before joining the Giants.

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