3 reasons why Jaguars should not dismiss Evan Neal in 2022 NFL Draft

2. Evan Neal can line up anywhere in the Jaguars’ O-Line.

The Jaguars brought back Cam Robinson to play left tackle in 2022. They signed right guard Brandon Scherff in free agency and Jawaan Taylor could compete with Walker Little for the chance to start at right tackle. With Tyler Shatley lining up at center, left guard could be the only spot left to sort out. Ben Bartch could get the nod if the team’s brass doesn’t make any moves in free agency but the Jaguars could plug Evan Neal there.

Sure, no guard has been drafted first overall but Evan Neal may be too good to pass up. Think about it this way, if Cam Robinson weren’t on the roster, would it make sense for the Jags to take Neal? They shouldn’t just rule out taking Aidan Hutchinson or Travon Walker first overall but they shouldn’t dismiss choosing the former Crimson Tide offensive lineman.

Keep in mind that Neal could play guard in his rookie campaign and then move to either left tackle or right tackle in 2023. After all, Jawaan Taylor is set to become a free agent and there’s no certainty Robinson will be on the team next year. That’s where Neal’s ability to line up at the three positions could come in handy.

Plus, there’s a precedent for clubs selecting an offensive tackle with a top 5 pick and having them play guard in their rookie campaign. The Arizona Cardinals did it with Leonard Davis (second overall in 2001) and the Baltimore Ravens did it with Jonathan Ogden (fourth overall in 1996), so plugging Neal at left guard in his first NFL season wouldn’t be unheard of.