The New York Giants right tackle Evan Neal has had a disappointing start to his NFL career. Neal has struggled when he played and battled injuries in his first two seasons. He missed four games in his rookie season with an MCL sprain and ten in his second season, including their last eight with a fractured ankle.

He underwent surgery in January.

The New York Giants offensive tackle started training camp on the active/PUP list

Evan Neal is believed to have suffered a setback during the spring, and the Giants shut him down for the rest of OTAs and mandatory minicamp.  He wasn’t quite ready for training camp, as the Giants placed him on the active/PUP list. He missed their first three weeks of camp, including their first preseason game.

He is ready to go

Evan Neal passed his physical Sunday and the Giants activated him off the PUP list. He returned to practice, conducting individual drills, as the Giants plan on easing his role once he gets more comfortable.

The 7th overall pick from 2022 faces stiff competition for the RT job

The former 7th overall pick isn’t guaranteed a starting job and will have to earn it. He will compete against Jermaine Eluemunor.

So far, Eluemunor has taken over at right tackle, receiving first-team reps with the first-team offense throughout camp. He is currently the favorite, and it’s his job to lose.

Even though Neal might not start, he could still have an important role on the offensive line in 2024. He could end up being their swing tackle. He is willing to help the team no matter what.

“Whatever role the team has for me, I’m going to embrace it.  … I’m not owed anything. All I want is what I work for.”