Giants Gamble on Evan Neal with One-Year Deal

Former first-round pick gets another chance in New York after disappointing start to career.

Mar. 11, 2026 at 10:05pm

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In a surprising move, the New York Giants have re-signed offensive lineman Evan Neal to a one-year contract. Neal, the 7th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, struggled mightily in his first two seasons with the Giants and had his fifth-year option declined last year. However, the new coaching staff, led by head coach John Harbaugh, believes they can get Neal's career back on track.

Why it matters

The Giants are taking a low-risk gamble on Neal's potential, hoping a change of scenery and coaching can unlock the talent that made him a highly touted prospect coming out of Alabama. If successful, it could provide a major boost to their offensive line, but if Neal continues to underperform, it will only further highlight the team's struggles in developing high draft picks.

The details

After being selected 7th overall in 2022, Evan Neal struggled mightily in his first two NFL seasons with the Giants. He looked overmatched at both tackle and guard, failing to handle speed rushers in pass protection. The Giants declined Neal's fifth-year option last May, seemingly signaling the end of his time in New York. However, the new coaching staff, led by John Harbaugh, believes they can get more out of Neal and are giving him another chance on a one-year deal.

  • The Giants re-signed Evan Neal on March 11, 2026, shortly after the start of the new NFL league year.
  • The Giants had declined Neal's fifth-year option in May 2025.

The players

Evan Neal

A 6'7", 340-pound offensive lineman who was the 7th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft by the New York Giants. After a disappointing first two seasons, the Giants are giving him another chance on a one-year contract.

John Harbaugh

The new head coach of the New York Giants, who believes he and his staff can help get Evan Neal's career back on track.

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What they’re saying

“We must not give up on talented players too quickly. Evan has all the tools to be a dominant offensive lineman in this league, and we're excited to work with him and help him reach his full potential.”

— John Harbaugh, Head Coach, New York Giants

What’s next

The Giants will monitor Neal's progress closely during the offseason program and training camp to see if the new coaching staff can get him back on track. If he shows significant improvement, he could earn a starting job on the offensive line.

The takeaway

The Giants are taking a low-risk, high-reward gamble on Evan Neal, hoping a change of scenery and coaching can unlock the potential that made him a top draft pick. If successful, it could be a major boost, but if Neal continues to struggle, it will only further highlight the team's difficulties in developing high draft picks.