New York Giants: Six First Round Targets in the 2022 NFL Draft
By Hunter Haas
Evan Neal, OL, Alabama
Evan Neal is a freak, and I mean that in the nicest way possible. At >6’7″ and tipping the scales at 337 pounds, Neal moves in ways that no human of that size should be capable of moving. He became a legend on social media after a video of him completing a 48-inch box jump. Yes, he was able to jump FOUR FEET. For reference, the highest measured box jump in NFL Scouting Combine history is 46 inches.
Along with this rare package of athleticism, Neal is also as polished as they come in terms of technique. He played all over the line at Alabama, including right guard, right tackle, and left tackle. This gives the New York Giants versatility if they ever need it, but they would be wise to stick Neal at right tackle and let Thomas and Neal protect the quarterback for the next decade in New York.
Ikem Ekwonu, OL, North Carolina State
Similar to Evan Neal, Ekwonu is a freak athlete that brings loads of versatility with him to the league. During his career at North Carolina State, Ekwonu showed steady improvement each season. You probably won’t believe this number but “Ickey” has been credited with an astonishing 154 pancake blocks in his final two seasons alone. Somebody get this man some syrup please!
As stated, the New York Giants need a franchise player along the offensive line in the worst way. Ekwonu can play either guard or tackle spot at a high level, but he has Tristan Wirfs-like upside as a right tackle for New York. Ekwonu anchors in well versus pass rushers and has no trouble getting to the second level when creating space as a run blocker. He is an all-around great player and if he’s available at five, it is a no-brainer decision for general manager Joe Schoen.