New York Giants Offensive Lineman Neal Should Play in Wildcard Round

The New York Giants appear to have dodged a bullet ahead of their Wildcard matchup with the Minnesota Vikings. Tackle Evan Neal suffered an ankle injury during yesterday's practice, but according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, it shouldn't impact his availability for Sunday's game.

#Giants OT Evan Neal suffered an ankle injury in Thursday’s practice that is considered minor, source said, and should not affect his ability to play this week against the #Vikings. He was listed as limited.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 13, 2023

Neal has started 13 games for the Giants this season after being taken seventh overall in the 2022 NFL Draft. An overpowering 6-7, 360-pound mountain out of Alabama, he has earned a middling 44.0 overall grade from Pro Football Focus for his play this season, but his presence in the Wildcard Round should at least maintain chemistry and communication along the Giants' offensive line.

The Giants are facing a Vikings team that has shown hints of vulnerability of late. Despite their 13-4 record, the Vikings allowed the second most yards in the league this season and ranked 30th in net yards per passing attempt allowed, so the Giants should have every opportunity to move the ball and score points so long as they're healthy. The two teams played a close game in Week 16 that the Vikings eventually won 27-24.