John Michael Schmitz just needs to look to his right for a reminder that even high draft picks are not cut an endless amount of slack.
There he will find Evan Neal — a three-year bust at right tackle — competing to win a job at right guard on the Giants offensive line in hopes of salvaging his career before entering free agency.
So far, the Giants have dug their heels in on the former second-round pick Schmitz despite two underwhelming seasons, giving him every first-team rep at center during 13 training camp practices.
“I’m confident in JMS,” head coach Brian Daboll said. “He has grown since we’ve been here. He does a good job of setting the table. There’s a lot of things on a center’s plate, and steadily he’s improved. I think he’s in a good spot.”