Key Takeaways from Giants’ Preseason Finale Loss to Jets: Undrafted Rookie Shines, Neal Returns from Injury, and Chatman’s Progress

Giants’ Preseason Finale Reveals Promising Performances and Setbacks

The Giants’ preseason finale against the Jets provided some valuable insights into the team’s potential strengths and weaknesses heading into the regular season. Here are three key takeaways from the game:

1. Dante “Turbo” Miller Impresses with Explosive Plays

Undrafted rookie Dante Miller showcased his skills during the game, making an impact on several plays. He displayed great agility and speed, getting his hands on the ball on five of the first six plays and gaining 24 yards. Miller, who played most of his college football at Columbia, had an impressive summer and is likely to secure a spot on the practice squad. With 14 carries for 45 yards in the game, Miller has proven himself as a player to watch.

2. Evan Neal Returns from Ankle Surgery with Mixed Results

Offensive tackle Evan Neal made his preseason debut after recovering from ankle surgery. Starting at right tackle, Neal showed promise as a run-blocker, providing solid support for the rushing game. However, there were moments of concern as well. In the second quarter, he was cleanly beaten by Takk McKinley, resulting in an 8-yard sack on quarterback Tommy DeVito. Additionally, Neal had to leave the game due to an injury to his surgically-repaired ankle. This setback raises questions about his durability and ability to perform consistently at a high level.

3. Elijah Chatman’s Progress as a Defensive Tackle

Undersized and undrafted rookie Elijah Chatman did not play in the final preseason game. This absence can be seen as a positive sign, indicating that he has likely secured a spot on the regular-season roster through his hard work and determination. Chatman, who played college football at SMU, has shown significant growth and development, impressing coaches with his hustle and tenacity on the field. As the regular season approaches, his progress will be worth keeping an eye on.

Overall, the Giants’ preseason finale offered a mix of promising performances and setbacks. Dante Miller’s explosive plays and Evan Neal’s return from injury provided reasons for optimism, while Chatman’s progress as a defensive tackle showcased the team’s commitment to nurturing young talent. As the regular season looms, the Giants will need to address areas of concern and capitalize on their strengths to achieve success on the field.