NY Giants news: Evan Neal, stunningly, returning to New York; what it means

Evan Neal | Getty Images

The New York Giants are bringing back guard Evan Neal, per multiple reports. That is a stunning move after a year in which the former first-round pick did not play a snap. The contract is reportedly one-year deal for the minimum salary.

The seventh overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, Neal spent three injury-plagued seasons unsuccessfully trying to prove he could play right tackle in the NFL. The Giants moved him to guard last season, but the 6-foot-7, 340-pound Neal never played a snap.

What it means for the Giants

It means, first and foremost, that new head coach John Harbaugh must believe in giving players a clean slate. Especially monstrous offensive linemen who show some potential to run block.

The Giants have an issue at right guard, where last season's starter - Greg Van Roten - has yet to re-sign. BBV's Chris Pflum posted some ideas for how the Giants could deal with that issue. Bringing Neal back was never a consideration.

Harbaugh, apparently, thought otherwise.

The new coaching staff, including Harbaugh, offensive coordinator Matt Nagy, offensive line coach Mike Bloomgren, and senior offensive assistant Greg Roman is said to want bring Neal to training camp and work with the former first-round pick.

We will see if it pays dividends.