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The New York Giants are in need of help for their right tackle, Evan Neal. The team should prioritize signing a “top-end pass protector” in the 2024 NFL free agency. The Giants believe that Neal, who was the seventh player taken in the 2022 NFL draft, can still be salvaged. Luckily, this year’s free-agency market includes Kevin Dotson, a right guard from the Los Angeles Rams who is known for his exceptional pass protection skills.
Dotson is considered a great fit for the Giants by Brad Spielberger of Pro Football Focus. Spielberger believes that adding a top-end pass protector next to Neal could greatly improve the stability of the right side of the offensive line. Dotson’s acquisition may come at a high cost, as he earned himself a significant amount of money in 2023 after being traded to the Los Angeles Rams. He received a career-high 88.8 run-blocking grade, although his pass blocking performance dipped compared to previous years.
The Giants may need to find creative ways to manage their salary cap in order to make this move work. However, it will be worth the effort for a team that allowed 85 sacks last season. Dotson is ready to cash in on his success, as he graded higher than all but one guard, according to PFF NY Giants.
Should the Giants focus on signing Kevin Dotson in free agency? His impressive PFF grade of 87.8 this season ranked second among all guards. He excelled in both blocking phases and demonstrated durability by starting 15 consecutive games, including the Rams’ playoff defeat to the Detroit Lions.
Neal has not had the same level of consistency next to him. The Giants have used Ben Bredeson, Mark Glowinski, and Joshua Ezeudu at right guard at different points throughout the season. Bringing in Dotson would provide stability and allow Neal to concentrate on improving his game. Dotson’s presence would also give the Giants a smart and mobile blocker who can move opponents in the trenches and quickly progress to the linebacker level.
Dotson showcased these qualities in Week 17 against the Giants. He effectively blocked All-Pro nose tackle Dexter Lawrence II and then moved up to engage middle linebacker Bobby Okereke, as highlighted by Stu Jackson of Rams.com.
A 28-yard touchdown run by Kyren Williams was a joy to watch. Williams praised the offensive line, specifically pointing out Kevin Dotson’s combo block and his ability to work up to the play side linebacker. Williams also credited Cooper Kupp for picking up the nickel defensive back and keeping him outside, allowing Williams to find a lane.
Dotson’s Massive Salary Projection Makes Giants Consider Lineup Change
The New York Giants may be willing to shell out a whopping $16.4 million annually to secure the talents of offensive tackle Dotson. As per Spotrac.com, this hefty figure is well within the Giants’ budget, with a salary cap space of $26,811,449 still available.
By acquiring Dotson, the Giants would provide their new line coach, Carmen Bricillo, with a reliable starter. This would free up Bricillo’s time and allow him to focus on improving the skills of struggling player Neal.
Neal’s performance over the past two seasons has been less than stellar, putting him on the verge of being labeled a draft bust. Pro Football Focus reveals that in his second year, Neal allowed 30 pressures, two sacks, five quarterback hits, and committed as many penalties.
To salvage Neal’s career, a position switch may be necessary. According to SNY.tv’s Connor Hughes, the Giants are expected to actively search for a new right tackle this offseason. Once they find the right player, Neal will be moved inside. This move could potentially help him regain his form.
While shifting Neal to guard could be beneficial, moving him to the left side of the line seems like a more strategic decision. As noted by Empire Sports Media’s Anthony Rivardo, Neal appeared more comfortable playing as a left guard or left tackle during his time at Alabama.
A possible solution to the Giants’ offensive line struggles would be to pair Neal with Pro-Bowl left tackle Andrew Thomas. Additionally, drafting a top-tier tackle to play alongside Dotson would complete the much-needed overhaul of the Giants’ O-line.
James Dudko, a sports reporter covering the New York Giants, Washington Commanders, New England Patriots, and Baltimore Ravens, believes that the key to saving Evan Neal’s career lies in his transition to left guard rather than right tackle. Dudko suggests that Neal’s weaknesses could be masked better on the interior line, especially when playing alongside Thomas.
According to the Source heavy.com