Thinking back to the 2022 NFL Draft class, there was a whole lot of excitement when the New York Giants selected former Alabama All-American offensive tackle Evan Neal. The 6-7, 340-pound behemoth was extremely physically gifted. Neal felt like an easy bet to become an outstanding bookend for Pro Bowl left tackle Andrew Thomas.
Things have not materialized, so far, for Neal in his young but frustrating NFL career. In three seasons with the team, Neal has managed to play in just 29 total games due to injury, with 27 starts at right tackle. When he has been healthy, Neal has been one of the worst starting offensive lineman in the entire league by many metrics. Poor play combined with injury setbacks is not a great combination.
Head coach Brian Daboll and general manager Joe Schoen enter a make or break year in 2025, and neither job is guaranteed if the Giants have another poor season. Improving the quarterback position was one of the biggest priorities this offseason, and New York did just that. The trio of Russell Wilson, rookie Jaxson Dart, and Jameis Winston provide substantially more optimism than Daniel Jones.
Continuing to improve the offensive line is also a major point of emphasis. That means potentially getting the most out of Neal, and finding a role for him up front. According to former Giants offensive lineman Shaun O’Hara, Neal is making the move inside to guard full time
It is worth noting that Neal did have some experience with the Crimson Tide at offensive guard during his time in Tuscaloosa, so the transition shouldn’t be an insurmountable one. If anything, it could allow Neal’s combination of raw power and foot speed to flourish rather than being put on an island. It does feel like a better fit for his skill set, and could inject him with some much needed confidence
Time isn’t up for Neal, but he does enter a very important season. Staying healthy will be important, and from there, it’s about taking advantage of opportunity.
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