Giants Offer Fresh Starts to Offensive Linemen Neal and Ezeudu

New head coach John Harbaugh sees potential in the 2022 draft picks who missed last season due to injury.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 5:42am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a fragmented, geometric interpretation of a football offensive line, with sharp planes of dark blue, forest green, and burnt orange colors.The Giants' offensive line rebuild takes a new shape under the team's fresh coaching staff.Phoenix Today

The New York Giants have re-signed offensive linemen Evan Neal and Joshua Ezeudu, both 2022 draft picks who missed their rookie seasons due to injury. New Giants head coach John Harbaugh is taking an optimistic approach, asking 'why not?' give the talented but underperforming players another chance to prove themselves. Harbaugh believes Neal and Ezeudu have big dreams and the motivation to realize them in New York.

Why it matters

The Giants are betting on the potential of Neal and Ezeudu, hoping a fresh start under a new coaching staff can help the young linemen reach their high ceilings. Developing homegrown offensive line talent is crucial for the Giants' long-term success, especially with the team's recent struggles to field a consistent and effective offensive front.

The details

Evan Neal, the Giants' 2022 first-round pick, will continue his transition from tackle to guard after an injury derailed that process last year. Joshua Ezeudu, a third-round selection, also dealt with an injury in 2022 but brings valuable versatility with experience at both guard and tackle. Giants GM Joe Schoen and head coach John Harbaugh are excited to give these players another opportunity, believing their talent and motivation can shine through with a clean slate.

  • In 2022, neither Neal nor Ezeudu played a snap for the Giants due to injuries.
  • Both players are set to become unrestricted free agents in the 2023 offseason.

The players

Evan Neal

The Giants' 2022 first-round draft pick, a former standout offensive tackle at the University of Alabama who is transitioning to guard.

Joshua Ezeudu

The Giants' 2022 third-round draft pick, an offensive lineman with experience at both guard and tackle.

John Harbaugh

The new head coach of the New York Giants, known for his optimistic and player-centric approach.

Joe Schoen

The general manager of the New York Giants, who is supporting Harbaugh's decision to give Neal and Ezeudu another chance.

Deonte Banks

The Giants' 2023 first-round draft pick, a cornerback who will also get a fresh start under the new coaching staff.

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What they’re saying

“They haven't broken through yet, but why can't they? George Bernard Shaw [said] some men see things as they -- you ready for this one? Let me make sure I get this right: Some men see things as they are and they ask why. We see things as they aren't and ask why not. That's what I kind of say with those two guys.”

— John Harbaugh, Head Coach, New York Giants

“They came to the office and sat down and laid out a plan and a vision of the type of players they want to be. They showed us what they're doing to make that happen right now. So let's give them a shot. Let's give them an opportunity. They're talented. They're tough. They want to be great. They have dreams. They have big dreams. So if they're going to dream big, I would like them to do it right here in our building and try to realize those dreams with us.”

— John Harbaugh, Head Coach, New York Giants

What’s next

The Giants will continue to monitor Neal and Ezeudu's progress throughout the offseason program and into training camp, as they look to solidify their offensive line rotation for the 2023 season.

The takeaway

Harbaugh's optimistic approach to developing young talent aligns with the Giants' long-term vision, as the team looks to build a sustainable contender through the draft. By giving Neal and Ezeudu another chance, the Giants are demonstrating their commitment to player development and creating a culture where players can thrive and reach their full potential.