Is the Giants’ Draft Struggles Finally Coming to an End?
Deonte Banks, who had been sidelined, is making his return to the starting lineup as injuries hit the secondary hard. However, receiver Jalin Hyatt and guard Evan Neal were injured in last week’s matchup against the Eagles.
Fortunately, it seems the Giants won’t have to deal with a healthy scratch when they face the 49ers this Sunday.
With the NFL trade deadline looming on Tuesday, it might be time for New York to consider moving on from their 2023 third-round pick (Hyatt) and 2022 first-round pick (Neal), especially if another team shows interest.
In fact, the Giants may need to act quickly. If cornerback Rico Payton comes off injured reserve this Saturday, they’ll need to make room on the 53-man roster. This means they’ll either have to release someone, trade him, or put another player on injured reserve for at least four games.
Hyatt has only managed 11 receptions for 79 yards across 21 games over the previous two seasons. The Giants have opted for practice squad player Lil’Jordan Humphrey over Hyatt in the last few games, and they might elevate Ray-Ray McLeod to start this week instead.
After showing promise during his rookie year, the question remains: Why hasn’t Hyatt managed to secure a spot? Receivers coach Mike Groh mentioned that “a number of factors” are at play but didn’t delve into details. He did stress that Hyatt still has time to turn things around. “He’s handled being a healthy scratch like a pro,” Groh added.
Neal, who switched from right tackle to right guard this offseason, has been inactive for all eight games so far. Despite earning first-team reps during training camp, he now finds himself on the third team.
Offensive line coach Carmen Bricillo stated that they asked Evan to make the switch, and he accepted the challenge. “I’ll regard him more as a guard. If I need him to play right tackle, I’m confident he’ll do it,” Bricillo explained.
Hyatt stands to earn about $2.1 million if he’s picked up by another team for next season. One wonders if the Giants will learn from holding onto Neal for too long. Neal is essentially a rental for half the season at a cost of around $550,000, which could hurt his trade value.
The Giants have ruled out cornerbacks Paulson Adebo (knee), Cordale Flotte (concussion), Art Green (hamstring), and defensive lineman Chauncey Golston (neck). Tight end Daniel Bellinger (neck) and tackle Jermaine Elemunor (chest) are both listed as questionable.
It’s also worth noting the possibility that third-string QB Jameis Winston could find himself inactive this Sunday.
El Emnor is focused on starting all 17 games this season. If he is unable to play, rookie RT Marcus Mbou is next in line.
Cornerback Jevon Holland (knee) and Payton (groin) are also considered questionable. The secondary is struggling significantly right now. Cornerback Corey Black, who recently joined the Giants from the Jets’ practice squad, might get the start.
“We have to work with a lot of our players and make sure everyone is ready,” head coach Brian Daboll expressed.
Meanwhile, running back coach Ladell Betts showed confidence in Cam Skatebo’s ability to rebound from a dislocated ankle and fractured tibia. “Lazy is never a word I would associate with Scutt. Every situation varies. I’ll leave it to the medical team, but he’s doing well,” Betts remarked.
