When it was Daboll’s turn to speak with Thibodeaux, the clearly excited coach said, “you jacked up or what? We have a lot of work to do, but we’re excited to get you in here and start working with you.”
The conversations had to be short because the Giants were soon on the clock again. The Carolina Panthers, sandwiched between the Giants’ two choices, took Ekwonu. With a clear need at right tackle and a high grade on the player, selecting Neal was an easy decision for the Giants.
Once again, Breit placed the call and then put Schoen on the line with the newest Giants player.
“Evan, how you doing, buddy, you want to be a New York Giant?” Schoen said. “We’re jacked up and we’re excited to have you. We look forward to working with you.”
“Welcome to the Giants,” Daboll told Neal. “We’re excited to have you.”
Neal’s selection was announced by Goodell, who was far more sedate than Prince had been and didn’t receive nearly as many cheers. Well, not from the fans. When the Neal choice was announced, everyone in the Giants’ draft room stood and applauded. One of the scenarios they had envisioned played out and they had secured two of the highest-graded players on their draft board.
By 8:50 p.m., a little more than 30 minutes after the official start of the draft, the Giants’ night was finished. Schoen and Daboll soon went downstairs to the auditorium to speak with the media. Then they returned to Schoen’s office to begin plotting strategy for their final seven selections, most notably the three they have on Friday (one in the second round and two in the third).
With Thibodeaux and Neal, the Giants are extremely pleased with the start to their draft. So, how did Schoen feel at the end of the night?
“I’m exhausted,” he said. “I’m ready for tomorrow. I’m glad that’s over with. Getting the first day over with is a big relief. I’m really happy with who we got. We want to finish strong on Friday and Saturday. It’s been a long road. I appreciate the coaches and the staff and all the…