The New York Giants selected right tackle Evan Neal with the 7th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. Neal was the team’s second top-ten pick in that draft after Kayvon Thibodeaux. At the time, the Giants were lauded for their picks and commitment to building the team through the trenches. Three seasons later, Neal is fighting for a roster spot. The former first-round pick’s only hope to salvage his Giants career is to make a successful switch to right guard. Fortunately, there’s evidence to suggest that Evan Neal could succeed at guard.
Giants’ Former First-Round Pick Could Enjoy Success in New Position
Physical Profile
Early in the 202 Draft process, Neal was projected to be the top overall pick. Teams fell in love with his massive, 6’7”, 350-pound frame that made him an ideal candidate to play tackle. Usually, smaller prospects move to the interior line to make up for physical shortcomings. However, Neal’s size would give him a distinct advantage on the interior. The majority of defensive tackles that Neal would face at guard are going to be larger, as much as they are slower. Both of which play into Neal’s strengths. He struggled with speed off the edge while playing tackle. Facing slower interior players would mask some of his athletic deficiencies.
Strengths That Translate
Neal’s best moments in the NFL have come in run-blocking sets, particularly in short areas. He may not be a mauler, but his frame helps him win leverage at the point of tackle in tight places. Again, that skill set suits guards well against defensive tackles, as opposed to offensive tackles covering edge rushers who take advantage of slow feet and extra space.
In addition, Neal would likely benefit from having two players next to him at center and right tackle. One of whom is Jermaine Eluemunor– a solid and reliable veteran tackle. After 2024, it was clear Neal wasn’t fast enough to block speed rushers solo off the edge. Any success he had was aided by tight ends chipping or running backs stepping up in protection. At guard, Neal will have the benefit of being part of double teams as well as pulling in running situations. In pass protection, Neal won’t be responsible for as much space as he was at right tackle.
While pass blocking, linemen need to absorb contact and gain leverage with a firm stance and strong arms. The limited space defenders have to go on the interior versus the edge is vital in pass protection sets. Perhaps a switch to guard will help, if not solve, Neal’s inability to anchor himself to the ground.
Alabama Experience
Fortunately, Neal played three positions on the line during college which gives him familiarity with guard. During his college career, he started 15 games at left tackle, 13 games at right tackle, and 13 games at left guard. The techniques between the interior and exterior lines are marginal, yet still different. With Neal’s collegiate experience, he should have an advantage in learning the nuances of playing guard in the NFL.
Can the Giants Salvage a Top-Ten Pick?
Even at guard, some of Neal’s shortcomings won’t be masked. His Footwork and hand placement are key skills even at guard, and there’s not much evidence suggesting that a position challenge will solve those issues. In addition, the losses and inability to progress at right tackle have shaken his confidence. There is a mental component to this change that Neal has to accept. Being an offensive lineman is already unglamorous, but a move from tackle to guard has negative connotations. However, the reality is that the Giants need to see what they have in their former high-end asset. If they can salvage Neal in any capacity, then the first round of the 2022 draft might have a different outlook entirely. Fortunately for the Giants, there is evidence to suggest that Evan Neal could succeed at guard.
Main Photo: [Kyle Terada] – USA Today Sports
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