In the tumultuous season of 2024, the New York Giants (2-4) have faced more setbacks than successes. Amidst the gloom, one shining light has been All-Pro left tackle Andrew Thomas. However, the Giants received a devastating blow as Thomas is now out for the rest of the season due to a foot injury that required surgery, as reported by CBS Sports NFL insider Jonathan Jones.
With Thomas sidelined, the Giants are looking towards their seventh overall pick from the 2022 NFL Draft, Evan Neal, to fill the void. Neal, a 24-year-old, made a name for himself by starting all 13 games as a rookie right tackle in 2022. Unfortunately, his promising trajectory was derailed in 2023 when he sustained a season-ending ankle injury after starting seven games. This season, Neal began as a backup after the Giants acquired Jermaine Eluemunor and transitioned him from guard to tackle during training camp.
Despite his potential, Neal’s performance has been criticized by analysts. In 2023, he ranked 84th out of 85 qualifying tackles in Pro Football Focus’ grading system, having allowed 20 quarterback pressures on only 309 pass-blocking snaps. This followed a disappointing rookie year where he ranked 86th out of 89 tackles, surrendering 52 quarterback pressures on 534 pass-blocking snaps.
The Giants’ offense, already struggling, faces further challenges with the loss of Thomas and the uncertainty surrounding Neal. The team ended a 651-day drought without a touchdown in a home game started by quarterback Daniel Jones during their 17-7 Week 6 defeat against the Cincinnati Bengals. As they navigate the remainder of the season, the Giants may be in danger of hitting new lows on the offensive side of the ball. The road ahead looks treacherous for New York as they seek to overcome adversity and salvage the remainder of their season.
