Evan Neal

BIOGRAPHY

Evan Neal, a brilliant offensive tackle and influential figure in American football, entered the world on the 19th of September in the year 2000. Today, he represents the New York Giants in the National Football League (NFL) and has made a reputable name for himself in the sphere of professional football. Notably, he was the seventh overall selectee of the Giants in the 2022 NFL draft, a milestone in his career that significantly augmented his recognition in the game.

Born and raised in beautiful Okeechobee, Florida, Neal embarked on his journey as a footballer in his hometown. He was a student at Okeechobee High School, after which he moved to the reputed IMG Academy located in Bradenton, Florida, to further his academic and athletic pursuits. His exceptional skill-set as a football player was evidenced early on, earning him an invitation to play in the esteemed 2019 Under Armour All-America Game.

It wasn’t long before Neal became a five-star recruit, and prestigious universities were eager to take him under their wing. Among the many, Neal decided to commit to the University of Alabama, a decision that he attributes to the university’s accomplished football program and coaching staff. His prime position during college football was playing at left guard where he made a notable impression by starting in all thirteen games in his freshman year in 2019.

However, the versatile player transitioned to right tackle in the following year and continued to impress with his performance. His talent shone bright as he emerged a pivotal participant in the team that cinched the 2021 College Football Playoff National Championship, an achievement that he touts with pride.

Following a successful 2021 season, Neal felt it was time to conquer new realms. In a bold decision, he chose to skip his senior year and enlisted his name in the 2022 NFL draft. His efforts reaped the desired results when he was chosen seventh overall by the New York Giants in the 2022 NFL Draft.

Joining the Giants, he reinvented himself as a competent and reliable player. However, his journey with the Giants took a temporary hiatus due to a grade 2 MCL sprain that occurred during Week 8 against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Remaining steadfast in his determination, he made a triumphant return in Week 13 and continued to assert his prowess in the game. It is noteworthy that he participated in and launched thirteen regular-season games and iconically represented the Giants during both their playoff matches as a rookie.

Evan Neal, despite his success, has remained genuine and candid in his interactions. After a disappointing loss to the Seattle Seahawks in the 2023 season, and the consequential booing by the Giants fans, he expressed his indifference by comparing himself to a lion unconcerned with the opinions of sheep. However, the statement aroused a wave of backlash, urging him to post an apology via social media the following day.

Despite the minor mishaps, his career trajectory has remained predominantly upward. Although the Giants were compelled to place him on injured reserve on December 24, 2023, his reputation remained untarnished.

Neal’s passion for football can be traced back to his family roots. His father, Eddie Neal, played as a linebacker at Tulane, and his uncles Frankie Neal, Cleveland Gary, and Jimmie Jones made a mark in the NFL. Undoubtedly, football runs in the Neal family, and Evan Neal is, without a doubt, living up to the legacy established by his predecessors.