As the New York Giants gear up for the new season, attention has turned to the recent injuries of key offensive linemen John Michael Schmitz and Evan Neal.
Both suffered ankle injuries in the final preseason game against the New York Jets. And this has raised concerns about their readiness for the season opener against the Minnesota Vikings on September 8th.
- John Michael Schmitz and Evan Neal both hurt their ankles in the Giants’ last preseason game, raising concerns about their availability for the start of the season.
- Despite initial worries, both players and coach Brian Daboll hope they’ll be ready for Week 1.
- The Giants are taking precautions and preparing backup options just in case.
Schmitz and Neal: What Happened in the Last Preseason Game
John Michael Schmitz, the starting center for the Giants, had to leave the field after getting rolled up on during a fourth-and-one play in the first offensive drive.
After getting checked by the medical team on the sidelines, Schmitz was ruled out for the rest of the game with an ankle injury.
This wasn’t the first time Schmitz faced trouble this preseason—he had already missed more than a week of training camp due to a shoulder injury.
Unfortunately, last season was tough for Schmitz. He struggled and allowed 30 total pressures and five sacks, which put him near the bottom among NFL centers.
Evan Neal, who plays right tackle, also left the game with an ankle problem after completing 21 plays, which was exactly what the coaches planned.
But Neal’s injury caused a bit more worry since it was the same ankle he had surgery on during the offseason.
However, Neal quickly reassured everyone that his early exit was part of the plan and that his ankle felt fine, even though he got rolled up in the final play.
MRI Results and What’s Next
Both Schmitz and Neal went for MRIs after the game to make sure there were no serious injuries.
Thankfully, the results came back clear, giving the Giants some relief. Coach Brian Daboll even mentioned that Schmitz was in good spirits and walking around just fine, so both players are expected to be ready for the first game.
Even so, the Giants are playing it safe. They’re considering backup options like veteran Greg Van Roten and Austin Schlottmann as potential starters at center if Schmitz isn’t ready.
For Neal’s spot, Jermaine Eluemunor is prepared to step in at right tackle if needed.
Getting Ready for the Season Opener
As the final preseason days unfold, the Giants diligently work to ensure their roster is in top shape. With Schmitz and Neal on the mend, the team is hopeful they’ll be good to go for Week 1.
Other injured players, like starting left guard Jon Runyan Jr. and potential starting cornerback Cor’Dale Flott, are also expected to return soon, which will strengthen the team even more.
Meanwhile, backup quarterback Drew Lock, who’s been dealing with oblique and hip injuries, also shows signs of improvement.
How he progresses might impact whether the Giants keep two or three quarterbacks, especially since Coach Daboll has shown confidence in rookie Tommy DeVito.
Giants’ Injury Concerns Easing Before Big Game
As the Giants gear up for their season opener against the Minnesota Vikings, it looks like their injury worries are starting to ease.
The clear MRI results for John Michael Schmitz and Evan Neal are a good sign, and the team is making sure they’re fully prepared for Week 1.
With the offensive line’s condition being so important, the next few days will be critical for locking in the final lineup for the season start.
Thus, the Giants will monitor their players closely and make any necessary changes. That way, they can make sure they have the best possible team ready for the Vikings.
