Giants take Neal with No. 7 overall pick
The New York Giants selected Alabama offensive tackle Evan Neal in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft, No. 7 overall.
The Giants, who entered the draft with a major hole on their offensive line, had two picks in the top seven this year. New York selected Oregon edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux at No. 5 overall minutes before taking Neal.
Neal joins a group that lost veteran offensive tackle Nate Solder this offseason. Solder remains unsigned after starting 48 games in New York from 2018-21. The NFC East club ranked 30th and 21st in pass- and run-blocking last year, respectively, according to PFF.
The 21-year-old Neal will presumably start at right tackle for the Giants, who'll have Andrew Thomas in the left tackle spot. New York selected Thomas fourth overall in 2020.
Scouting profile: Evan Neal
| School | Height | Weight | 40 time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 6'7 | 337 | DNP |
Neal is an imposing specimen, and he has all the power to match his hulking frame. He's also one of the rare college offensive line prospects who can jump to the NFL with an extremely polished game, particularly as a pass-protector. There shouldn't be much doubt about Neal's ability to smoothly transition to the next level as he's competed against the nation's best defensive talent in the SEC at both left and right tackle. With improved balance and finishing of blocks in the run game, his already-high ceiling could enter perennial Pro Bowl territory.