The New York Giants are hoping for offensive tackle Evan Neal to step up in his second year in the league. Neals’s rookie season left plenty to be desired and his improvement will go a long way toward the Giants chances at competing this season.
Unfortunately, Neal has been in concussion protocol for nearly two weeks now.
Luckily, it sounds like Neal is getting closer to returning to the practice field. Head Coach Brian Daboll was asked about Neals progress:
Evan Neal is “trending in the right direction” in the concussion protocol and for Friday’s preseason game vs. Panthers, per coach Brian Daboll. #giants
— Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan) August 16, 2023
With Neal’s struggles in Year 1, the Giants would likely favor getting him some preseason snaps in order to ensure he is ready for the season.
The offensive line also looks much different than it did a year ago. 2023 second-round pick John Michael Schmitz has impressed so far and the Giants currently have an open competition at the Guard positions.
With the new members of the offensive line and Neal hoping to improve in his second year in the league, the Giants will hope to have him fully return to practice sooner rather than later.
If the Giants are going to improve on their record from a year ago, the offensive line will need to be more consistent and it starts with Neal. Hopefully, he will return to the practice field soon with the regular season opener just a few short weeks away.
