- Evan Neal will make his first start of 2024 – NBC Sports
- Source: Giants to start Neal at RT vs. Panthers – ESPN
- Evan Neal to start at right tackle against Panthers – Big Blue View
- New York Giants to Make Major Change on Offensive Line in Week 10 – Sports Illustrated
- Giants to give first-round bust another shot, will start him Sunday vs. Panthers – NJ.com
# Evan Neal Gets First Start of 2024 as Giants Face Panthers
The New York Giants are gearing up for a divisional matchup against the Carolina Panthers in Week 10 of the 2024 NFL season, and there’s a significant change on the offensive line. After battling through injuries and positional shifts throughout the year, Evan Neal is set to reclaim his starting role at right tackle.
## A Long Road Back for Neal
Neal, the seventh overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft [[1](https://www.nfl.com/players/evan-neal/)], entered the league with immense expectations as a dominant force on the offensive line. However, his first two seasons have been marked by inconsistency and setbacks. He struggled mightily during his rookie year against elite pass rushers, ultimately failing to secure a consistent starting position.
Despite showing flashes of brilliance in limited snaps throughout 2023, Neal faced fierce competition from veteran players and the ever-present threat of injury. This led to a frustrating season where he battled for playing time and struggled to find his rhythm. But now, with the Giants seeking to solidify their offensive line ahead of a crucial stretch in the season, Neal is poised to finally get his chance to shine.
### The Benefit of Experience:
While Neal’s first two seasons haven’t been easy, they have undoubtedly provided invaluable experience. He has learned from seasoned veterans both on and off the field, honing his technical skills and understanding of NFL-level competition.
* **Facing adversity:** Overcoming challenges and setbacks is crucial for a young player’s development. Neal has learned to persevere through tough times, which will only make him stronger mentally and emotionally.
* **Learning from veterans:** The Giants boast a veteran offensive line corps that has imparted valuable knowledge to Neal. Mentorship from experienced players helps accelerate his growth and understanding of the game.
## What to Expect From Evan Neal in Week 10
The Panthers present a formidable challenge for any offensive line, boasting a talented defensive front with proven pass rushers and disruptive run-stuffers. However, this matchup also offers a prime opportunity for Neal to solidify his position as the starting right tackle and showcase his potential.
* **Pass Protection:** Neal’s primary focus will undoubtedly be protecting Daniel Jones from the Panthers’ relentless pass rush. His technique and athleticism will be tested against some of the league’s best edge defenders.
* **Run Blocking:** The Giants are a run-first team, so Neal’s ability to create running lanes for Saquon Barkley will be crucial. A strong performance in the run game could pave the way for explosive offensive plays and help control the clock.
## A Turning Point for Neal and the Giants?
This Week 10 matchup against the Panthers marks a pivotal moment for Evan Neal. Can he seize this opportunity, deliver a standout performance, and finally establish himself as a cornerstone on the Giants’ offensive line? Only time will tell, but the potential is certainly there for him to make a significant impact and contribute to the team’s success in the season’s latter half.
