The New York Giants have been patient with offensive lineman Evan Neal so far in his career.
Neal, of course, is a graduate of the University of Alabama and was selected by the Giants with the seventh overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft.
Following a lackluster rookie season, Neal was plagued by injuries in his sophomore season in 2023 and had disappointing results.
Heading into a crucial, and possibly make-or-break, year for Neal, PFF has named him the Giants' X-factor.
Evan Neal's struggles are emblematic of the struggles of the Giants' entire offensive line, as he has compiled just a 42.5 overall grade over his first two seasons. 2024 is a make-or-break year for Neal, and with Jermaine El-Huemoneau more than capable of starting in his place at right tackle, the pressure could be on him to perform early in the season.
The Giants have invested in their offensive line in free agency, particularly the signings of John Runyan Jr. and Jermaine Eluemunor, which should help Neal and the entire offensive line, but questions remain about how the new acquisitions will fit into the rotation.
Neal will work with new offensive line coach Carmen Bricillo, and of course, Neal's chance to bounce back in his third NFL season with a strong start will depend on him staying healthy with Big Blue.
With the Giants releasing Saquon Barkley in free agency, it's more important than ever for the offensive line to strengthen going forward, and much of that success will rest on the shoulders of Evan Neal.
This article originally appeared on Giants Wire
