Evan Neal’s journey with the New York Giants has been puzzling, to say the least. Drafted 7th overall in 2022, Neal was once seen as a foundational piece for the Giants’ offensive line. But here we are, halfway through the 2024 season, and the former Alabama standout is riding the bench, leaving fans scratching their heads.
Despite his availability and health, the Giants seem unwilling to use him, even with injuries plaguing the line, most notably left tackle Andrew Thomas. So what gives?
NY Giants have no idea what they're doing with Evan Neal
Head coach Brian Daboll hasn’t provided much clarity on Neal’s role if he even has one.
When asked about Neal’s lack of playing time, Daboll said Neal was in the “mix” and would step up in case of an injury. But fans aren’t buying it. Instead, Daboll’s reliance on veterans like Chris Hubbard and Jermaine Eluemunor speaks volumes, hinting that Neal may not have the coaching staff's trust.
Rumors of a potential trade have circulated, but reports indicate that Neal isn’t on the block. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler called trade discussions around Neal a “nonstarter,” meaning the Giants aren’t actively looking to move him despite the lack of playtime. Yet, if they’re not planning to use him, fans have every right to wonder why they’re so keen to keep him off the market.
So the Giants WONT trade Evan Neal, but they're also "done with him."???
— Alex Wilson (@AlexWilsonESM) November 2, 2024
Makes zero sense -- Joe Schoen won't trade him b/c it would've been a 1st round pick traded for nothing only 2 years after he was drafted.
Catastrophic failure. https://t.co/Bp5AyDIWBW
Some argue that Neal’s situation reflects deeper issues within the Giants’ approach to player development. Injuries sidelined him for much of last season, and his on-field performance hasn’t been stellar.
But Neal isn’t the first young player to struggle early in his career. It’s strange to see a high draft pick with such potential not given a shot, especially when the offensive line could use all the help it can get.
With new offensive line coach Carmen Bricillo, there’s hope that Neal could turn things around if only he’s given a chance to play. For now, Neal remains stuck in limbo, too valuable to cut or trade, yet somehow not valuable enough to start.
Giants fans are left wondering if and when their first-round investment will finally see the field and make an impact.