It is never a good sign when a team refuses the fifth year option of an old first round choice.
An event that occurs each year when the teams make this decision, the New York Giants found themselves in this boat with regard to Evan Neal.
The overall choice n ° 7 of the NFL 2022 draft was largely considered a bust during its first three seasons.
Following the news that New York refused the 2026 of Neal option worth $ 16.7 million, it was also reported that the Alabama product would move inside to the right guard, according to Paul Schwartz of the New York Post.
“Neal this spring will try to resuscitate his faulty NFL career with a decision -making decision. And it is logical that, if he adapts and shows that he can manage the mental and physical adjustments inherent in being kicked inside the line, a starting place could be his for the catch,” wrote Schwartz.
New York flirted with the idea of kicking Neal inside after his failures on the right. Neal fought against injuries and when he is on the ground, he left a lot to be desired.
Although his difficulties in protection against passes finally condemned his career at this stage, he showed a certain promise as a racing blocker during his limited work in 2024. This could help his transition to the guard.
It is likely that the giants will start Neal at the right guard where he will compete with Greg Van Roten, who has been signed this offseason. New York used a fifth round choice on Marcus Mbow, but they start it on the right.
After the Giants refused its fifth year option, it is really a brand season or rupture for Neal.
