New York Giants Season: News, Schedule, Roster, and Highlights

Category: News

  • Don Hasselbeck, Super Bowl Champion and Father of Two NFL QBs, Dead at 70

    Don Hasselbeck, Super Bowl Champion and Father of Two NFL QBs, Dead at 70

    Don Hasselbeck, a Super Bowl champion and proud father of two NFL quarterbacks, passed away on Monday at 70. His son Matt Hasselbeck shared the devastating news that his dad had a cardiac arrest at home.

    In a heartfelt tribute on social media, Matt wrote: “He was so many things to so many people—he was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, friend, coach, player, coworker, artist, mentor and storyteller. What we’re most proud of, though, is the kind of leader he was in our family. That All-American title he earned at Colorado and the Super Bowl win with the Raiders were just a couple of the many things that made him special—but it’s the way he led us that really defines him.

    Matt Hasselbeck’s words on social media about his father Don Hasselbeck.

    A Career Defined by Passion and Perseverance

    Hasselbeck’s football career started at the University of Colorado, where he was an All-American before being drafted in the 2nd round by the New England Patriots in 1977. Over 6 seasons with the Patriots, he became a reliable target, leading the team in receptions in 1981 with 46 catches for 808 yards and 6 touchdowns.

    In 1983, he was traded to the Los Angeles Raiders where he was a big part of their Super Bowl XVIII championship. At 6-7, he caught 2 touchdown passes during the regular season and made a game changing play in the Super Bowl by blocking an extra point in the Raiders 38-9 win over Washington.

    The next season, he played for the New York Giants where he caught a touchdown pass in a playoff win over the San Francisco 49ers. He finished his 9 year NFL career with the Minnesota Vikings in 1985.

    Legacy Beyond the Numbers

    Hasselbeck’s on-field numbers—107 catches for 1,542 yards and 18 touchdowns in 123 games— are impressive but his legacy goes far beyond the field. He was a leader and a character and inspired many teammates and coaches throughout his career.

    Off the field Hasselbeck was most proud of being a husband, father and grandfather. His influence was felt deeply within his family especially his sons Matt and Tim both of whom followed in his footsteps and became NFL quarterbacks.

    Matt a 3 time Pro Bowler and former Super Bowl starter with the Seattle Seahawks has often credited his father for teaching him the values of hard work and humility. Tim although a backup quarterback had a respectable career.

    A Life Remembered Through Stories and Memories

    Beyond football Don Hasselbeck was an artist and a storyteller who could connect with people. Whether through his love of painting or his ability to tell stories from his playing days Hasselbeck left his mark on everyone he met.

    He will be deeply missed by the football community and his family but his legacy will live on through all the lives he touched.

  • Michael Strahan Shares Insight on Maximizing Travis Hunter’s Talents

    Michael Strahan Shares Insight on Maximizing Travis Hunter’s Talents

    Travis Hunter, the Colorado Buffaloes’ two-way star, is one of the most hyped prospects heading into the 2025 NFL Draft. With him being able to play both cornerback and wide receiver, teams are split on where he’ll make the biggest impact. The New York Giants, who have been showing interest in Hunter, think he’s a full-time cornerback. But retired Giants Hall of Fame defensive end Michael Strahan has a different opinion.

    “I think he’s more of a wide receiver,” Strahan told the 7PM in Brooklyn Podcast. “He’s a shutdown corner, but I just think if you’re going to use his energy I would use him as a wideout. Put him with (Giants receiver) Malik Nabers, nobody would stop them.”

    Could this be the new dynamic duo in New York?

    The Case for Travis Hunter as a Wide Receiver

    Hunter was all over the place in college, playing on both sides of the ball. Last year he led the FBS with 1,483 plays—714 on offense, 748 on defense and 21 on special teams. His offense numbers were impressive, playing 86.8% of the snaps and 94 receptions for 1,258 yards and 15 touchdowns. According to Pro Football Focus (PFF) he was 3rd among Power 4 receivers with 500+ snaps and 4th overall in the Power 4.

    With the Giants, pairing Hunter with Malik Nabers would be a nightmare for opposing defenses. The team already has Darius Slayton, Wan’Dale Robinson and Jaylin Hyatt. Adding Hunter’s explosiveness would take the receiving corps to another level. Improved QB play from Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston would only amplify Hunter’s impact.

    Strahan’s point is to maximize Hunter’s offense. “If you’re going to use his energy, I would use him as a wideout,” he said. “Put him with Nabers, nobody would be able to stop them.”

    The Argument for Cornerback

    Strahan likes receiver but Hunter’s defense can’t be ignored. As a corner, he had 25 tackles, 4 interceptions and 11 pass deflections last year. His PFF grades tell the story: 89.3 overall, 90.3 coverage, 83.0 man and 86.8 zone.

    For a team like the Giants who need depth and talent in the secondary Hunter’s defense might provide more value. He can step in right away and make an impact, especially in a league where good corners are hard to find.

    Will the Giants Get Their Man?

    Despite their interest, it looks like the Giants won’t get a shot at Hunter. Reports are the Cleveland Browns are after him and the Giants are out. If they do get him, they’ll have a tough decision: offense or defense?

    No Matter the Position, Hunter Will Be a Star

    Whether cornerback or wide receiver, Travis Hunter will be a difference maker. His athleticism, intelligence and work ethic makes him a once in a lifetime prospect who can play multiple positions.

    As Michael Strahan said, “No matter how he’s used, Hunter will make an impact and help the team regardless of who drafts him.”

  • Russell Wilson Meets New Giants Teammates After Signing

    Russell Wilson Meets New Giants Teammates After Signing

    Russell Wilson is getting to work with his new team. Since signing a one year, $10.5 million deal with the New York Giants last month, Wilson has been putting in the work on and off the field to get to know his new teammates. On Friday, he gave us a glimpse into his latest training session.

    A Day of Work at Georgia Tech

    Wilson spent the week training at Georgia Tech, where he was joined by Giants wide receivers Darius Slayton and Wan’Dale Robinson and tight end Theo Johnson. The group worked on route running, timing and ball placement, all key to building chemistry in the passing game.

    In an Instagram Story, Wilson said “Good few days with the Boyzzz!” He also thanked the Georgia Tech football program for hosting them and gave fans a behind the scenes look at their preparation in the school’s facilities.

    One pic showed Wilson and his crew in the Georgia Tech weight room. He tagged his strength coaches and the group in the post. Clearly, Wilson isn’t just working on the physical part of the game, he’s emphasizing the importance of teamwork and camaraderie from day one.

    Taking the Field at Bobby Dodd Stadium

    Wilson didn’t stop there. Later that day he went to Bobby Dodd Stadium at Hyundai Field in Atlanta to do some solo throwing. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he is throwing into an empty stadium. Love the game.

    “Love the game” he captioned the post.

    Not the first time, he’s worked out with Giants teammates. He worked out with tight ends Daniel Bellinger and Greg Dulcich and Falcons wide receiver Jesse Matthews earlier in the week.

    Wilson’s Immediate Focus: Building Chemistry

    At his introductory press conference with the Giants in late March, he said “I’m ready to get to work,” and he’s been true to his word. With the Giants coming off a 3-14 season, he knows the pressure is on. His leadership and experience will be key as the team tries to turn it around.

    For Wilson, this offseason isn’t just about learning the playbook it’s about building relationships with his new teammates. Whether it’s extra time on the field or in the weight room he’s leaving no stone unturned to make 2025 a successful year for Big Blue.

    Giants’ Quarterback Room Gets a Facelift

    The Giants’ quarterback situation has undergone a major overhaul this offseason, and it’s clear in what direction the team is headed. After struggling so badly last season, the Giants went out and got two new quarterbacks, Baker Mayfield and veteran Jameis Winston, on short term deals.

    Mayfield brings stability and calm to a position group that was desperate for it. Winston’s two year, $8 million deal provides depth and insurance in case of injuries or other issues.

    But, the Giants still have the No. 3 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, which takes place April 24-26. Names like Shedeur Sanders have been mentioned as first round picks, but Giants GM Joe Schoen said the team isn’t locked into any one direction.

    “Going into it we can go any direction,” Schoen said at the NFL league meetings last month. “It gives us optionality to go many different directions.”

    No. 3 Returns: A Symbolic Gesture

    In another symbolic gesture, Mayfield will wear jersey No. 3 with the Giants—the same number he wore with the Seahawks, Broncos and Steelers. Cornerback Deonte Banks previously wore the number and gave it up to Mayfield.

    For Mayfield, getting No. 3 back is continuity and a fresh start as he begins this next chapter of his career.

  • New York Giants QB Search, Tyler Shough Visits Team on Wednesday

    New York Giants QB Search, Tyler Shough Visits Team on Wednesday

    With the NFL Draft just weeks away, the New York Giants are leaving no stone unturned in their search for a quarterback. One of the most interesting names on their radar is Louisville’s Tyler Shough , who visited the Giants’ facility in East Rutherford, N.J., on Wednesday.

    Many draft analysts think the Giants will pass on Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders at No. 3, and the focus has shifted to quarterbacks like Shough who could be value in later rounds. But what makes Shough so interesting? Let’s break it down.

    Who Is Tyler Shough?

    Shough’s path to the NFL Draft has been anything but conventional. At 26 years old (he’ll be 26 in September), he’s one of the oldest prospects in this year’s class. His college career spanned seven years, including stops at Oregon, Texas Tech, and finally Louisville, where he had his best season in 2024.

    Injuries derailed parts of his journey, but Shough showed flashes of brilliance in his one year as Louisville’s starter. Under head coach Jeff Brohm’s quarterback-friendly offense, Shough went 8-4 —the first time in his college career he played more than eight games in a season.

    According to Dane Brugler’s “The Beast” draft guide , Shough is QB4 with a second-round grade. Here’s what Brugler had to say about him:

    “With his drive velocity and body fluidity, Shough can make impressive rip-and-zip throws from a variety of arm slots and is a better athlete than expected, which helps him keep plays alive. His ability to expedite his process when the pocket deteriorates is promising, but he needs to improve his eye discipline to stay in sync with receivers when reading full progressions.”

    Brugler also noted that while Shough is overaged and prone to high-risk passing decisions, his functional mobility and gifted throwing ability make him a late bloomer.

    How Will Teams View Shough’s Age?

    At 26, Shough is ancient by draft prospect standards. Most rookies enter the league at 21 or 22 after 3 or 4 years of college football. But Shough’s maturity might be his biggest selling point.

    As Chris Pflum of BBV said:

    “How will the NFL reckon with a 25 year old prospect, who will be 26 in his rookie season, and with only one full year of real production?”

    Shough isn’t your typical draft prospect. He’s already married, has a master’s degree and has faced adversity his whole college career. Some teams will see him as a finished product—a player who is what he is. Others will see him as a diamond in the rough, a mature quarterback with upside.

    Can Shough be the draft steal? That depends on how teams view his potential vs his limitations.

    Why the Giants Are Interested?

    The Giants have had draft prospects in for visits, including quarterbacks Cam Ward and dual-threats Shedeur Sanders. But Shough’s interest suggests they’re covering all their bases, especially if they don’t get a a top quarterback early in the draft.

    Shough’s experience and leadership could be attractive to a team looking for a developmental quarterback who can contribute sooner rather than later. With veterans Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston already on the roster, Shough wouldn’t have to start right away, giving him time to develop.

    Giants’ Draft Visits Tracker: Who Else Are They Looking At?

    Here’s a quick rundown of some of the prospects the Giants have met with or hosted recently:

    Top Prospects

    • Marcus Mbow (OL, Purdue)
    • Abdul Carter (Edge, Penn State)
    • Cam Ward (QB, Miami)
    • Shedeur Sanders (QB, Colorado)
    • Shavon Revel (CB, East Carolina)

    Local Day Visits

    • Eric Rogers (CB, Rutgers)
    • Kyle Monangai (RB, Rutgers)
    • Christian Dremel (WR, Rutgers)
    • Hollin Pierce (OT, Rutgers)

    Pro Day Meetings

    • Jake Majors (C, Texas)

    Combine Visits

    • Mason Graham (DT, Michigan)
    • Tyler Warren (TE, Penn State)
    • Jason Walker (Edge, Georgia)

  • Abdul Carter Makes Sense for the Giants in the NFL Draft

    Abdul Carter Makes Sense for the Giants in the NFL Draft

    Tony DelGenio at Big Blue View asked the question: Should the New York Giants draft Penn State edge defender Abdul Carter with the third overall pick if they can get him? With Brian Burns and Kayvon Thibodeaux already at the edges, how do the Giants justify using a top 3 pick on another pass rusher? It’s a fair question but Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer has some insight that might change your mind.

    The Current Draft Buzz

    According to Breer, the consensus among league insiders is that Cam Ward will go #1 to the Tennessee Titans and the Cleveland Browns are leaning towards taking Colorado’s Travis Hunter at #2. If that’s true, the Giants would get Abdul Carter, who is considered one of the most transformative prospects in this draft.

    Breer said Hunter might be the “cleaner” fit for the Giants because he can play both wide receiver and cornerback, but the Giants view Carter as a “workable” option despite the challenges. After all, too many pass rushers has never been a bad problem.

    How Would the Giants Use Abdul Carter?

    Breer noted the Giants could use Carter like they did in the good old days under defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo. Back then they stacked elite pass rushers like Osi Umenyiora, Michael Strahan, Justin Tuck and Mathias Kiwanuka on the same roster—even when it seemed redundant. The philosophy was simple: You can never have too many pass rushers.

    For Carter specifically, the Giants see a hybrid role. He’d play off-ball linebacker on early downs, using his athleticism and coverage skills, then transition into a pass-rushing role alongside Burns, Thibodeaux and Dexter Lawrence in specialized packages.

    “Imagine an offensive line trying to block Brian Burns, Abdul Carter, Kayvon Thibodeaux and Dexter Lawrence in a NASCAR-type package,” Breer said. “It’s not perfect, but it’s very workable if you believe Abdul Carter is as special as everyone thinks he is.”

    Challenges and Trade-Offs

    This looks good but it’s not without its issues. Veteran linebackers Bobby Okereke and Micah McFadden might see their playing time reduced if Carter plays off-ball linebacker. But Breer said those are the kind of “good problems” teams want to have—especially when you draft a player like Carter.

    The key will be if defensive coordinator Shane Bowen can replicate the success of past Giants defenses by using multiple elite players. If he does, this could take the Giants defense to new heights.

    Why He’s Worth the Risk

    Despite the depth chart congestion, Abdul Carter’s versatility and upside is enticing. He can play pass rusher and off-ball linebacker so the Giants have options on how to use him. And if he lives up to the hype, he and Burns and Thibodeaux could be the most feared defensive line in the NFL.

    Ultimately, it’s up to the Giants if they view Carter as a generational talent worth taking over other needs. If they do, we might see a total overhaul of the Big Blue defense.

  • Shedeur Sanders Believes He’ll Land with Giants

    Shedeur Sanders Believes He’ll Land with Giants

    Sanders’ ties to the Giants have been pretty clear since before the offseason even started. That was evident in the way he showed up to Colorado’s Alamo Bowl game in Giants-themed cleats – a pretty clear nod to his potential landing spot in New York. (Those cleats certainly didn’t go unnoticed.) While gestures like that may seem like just a bit of fun, they actually add to the story that’s building around Sanders and the Giants.

    The Giants’ quarterback situation has gotten a lot more complicated this offseason, after signing veterans Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston. That’s led some analysts to wonder if the team might decide to pass on a quarterback with the third overall pick. Instead, they might address other needs or wait on a signal-caller until later in the draft.

    Joe Schoen Keeps Options Open at No. 3

    When asked about drafting a quarterback, Giants General Manager Joe Schoen didn’t entirely close the door on the idea. Nor did he sound like he was itching to pull the trigger.

    “We can go in any direction,” Schoen said at a press conference on Monday. “We’re in a position to take the best football player available at that time.”—and that player had better be one you can build a winner around.

    That comes with some pretty high expectations when you’re picking third overall. “You want that guy to be a franchise quarterback you can win with year in, year out in the NFC East. And if you’re taking a guy that high, the ultimate goal is to win a Super Bowl. So they have to be able to check all those boxes,” Schoen said.

    Those comments suggest the Giants are taking their time to consider their options—leaving open the possibility of Sanders or another prospect joining the roster.

    Daboll Prefers Private Workouts Over Pro Days

    Giants’ head coach, Brian Daboll, won’t be at Colorado’s Pro Day on Friday to watch quarterback prospect Sanders. That’s because Daboll prefers to get to know quarterbacks in private workouts rather than at public pro days. He was explaining that at the NFL owners‘ meetings this week.

    Daboll’s approach to offense is all about tailoring the playbook to the player. “The playbook has to be ever-changing,” he said. That means he looks for a quarterback who fits the Giants’ style of play—and whether Sanders is that guy remains to be seen.

    Why Sanders Believes in the Giants Connection?

    That confidence Sanders has about joining the Giants isn’t just a fan’s fantasy. He probably feels that way because of the team’s quarterback depth chart. Wilson and Winston are both signed to short-term deals. That means the Giants might see Sanders as a long-term solution at quarterback.

    Sanders’ ability to both throw and run with the ball—and his leadership skills—make him an attractive prospect for a team looking to rebuild. If the Giants decide not to draft a quarterback at number three, they could take Sanders later—or even trade back into the first round to get him.

  • Brian Daboll Tweaks Giants Offense After Reviewing 7,500 Russell Wilson Plays

    Brian Daboll Tweaks Giants Offense After Reviewing 7,500 Russell Wilson Plays

    The Giants are counting on Brian Daboll to revive Russell Wilson, a quarterback whose career has been in decline for a few years now. At 36 he’s not the dynamic player he was when he led the Seattle Seahawks to a Super Bowl but the Giants think he can still make their offense better. To prepare for this Daboll has done his homework—watched over 7,500 of Wilson’s pass plays since 2012.

    The Cliff Edge: Is Russell Wilson Still Worth the Investment?

    The numbers don’t lie. Since leaving the Seattle Seahawks—the team where he built his legend—Wilson’s performance has declined. His passer ratings have gone from four straight 100+ seasons (2018-2021) to a career low 84.8 in 2022 with the Denver Broncos. Even last season with the Pittsburgh Steelers his 95.6 rating was far from his MVP days.

    But Daboll sees potential in Wilson.

    “In terms of the cliff, until you’re with the players, coaching them—I’m looking forward to working with Russ,” Daboll said at the NFL annual meeting in Palm Beach, Florida. “I’ve watched him, I’ve watched what I think he can do well, I’ve watched stuff that maybe we can help him with and I’ve watched stuff that maybe he can help us with.”

    Daboll didn’t just glance at Wilson’s highlight reel; he dug deep, studying 7,500 pass plays from Wilson’s 10-year career. The goal? To figure out what’s left of the quarterback’s game and build the Giants’ offense around it.

    What Wilson Brings to the Table?

    While Wilson’s athleticism and mobility aren’t what they used to be—he’s a little older, after all—that doesn’t mean he’s lost his ability to extend plays and deliver those explosive passes downfield. Daboll points out several strengths that still apply:

    One of those is his deep-ball accuracy. That’s been missing from the Giants’ offense in recent years. With speedsters like Malik Nabers, Darius Slayton and tight end Theo Johnson on the roster, Wilson could really bring that vertical passing attack back to life.

    Leadership and football smarts are where Wilson truly shines. He’s a veteran presence in the locker room, and Daboll values that kind of experience-and-intelligence combination.

    Wilson has played in over 175 NFL games. That means he knows the league’s pressures—its ebbs and flows—like the back of his hand. Even if his physical tools have diminished.

    Daboll put it well: “He’s athletic. He’s a little older, so he’s maybe not as athletic. But he certainly had the ability to use his legs, extend plays, create explosive plays—and he’s a phenomenal deep-ball thrower.” Wilson still has that in him.

    The Giants’ Offensive Challenge

    For Daboll, the answer is clear: fit the playbook to Wilson’s strengths rather than the other way around.

    “I’m always a big believer that you run what the quarterback and your guys do well,” Daboll said. “I’m not like ‘Here’s the playbook, learn the playbook.’ I think the playbook has to be ever-changing.”

    This will require Daboll and offensive coordinator Mike Kafka to work together, who called plays in 2022 and 2023. Whether Daboll will call plays or delegate to Kafka is TBD but he did say flexibility.

    “We gotta get together and figure out what’s good for everybody,” Daboll said.

    Will It Work? The Giants’ Roster Around Wilson

    Wilson won’t be flying solo in the quarterback room. Jameis Winston—signed to a two-year, $8 million deal—is there to provide a safety net, while Tommy DeVito gives the Giants a third option. There’s also a good chance the team will draft a rookie quarterback early—Shedeur Sanders or another prospect could be that guy.

    Wilson’s success really depends on the players around him. That’s where Malik Nabers, Darius Slayton and Theo Johnson come in. Those three give the Giants the ability to take shots down the field and really make defenses think. But for the offense to reach its full potential, the unproven guys like Jalin Hyatt will have to prove themselves.

    A Make-or-Break Season for Wilson and the Giants

    With Wilson at the helm, the Giants are counting on a mix of what’s familiar—and what’s new—to breathe life back into their offense. That means leaning on the same qualities that made Wilson a star in Seattle. If that spark has fizzled out for good, though, the Giants could be right back where they started in their search for a franchise quarterback.

    Wilson really likes what he sees in Daboll’s attack-first approach. “That mentality,” he says, “is what I really like about Dabes.” He hasn’t had a chance to get into the nitty-gritty of game planning with his new coach yet—but he’s been watching and learning from Daboll’s work over the years. That gives him a sense of who Daboll is—and what he can do.

    The success of this pairing will depend on the chemistry between Wilson and Daboll. If that clicks, this experiment could pay off. If it doesn’t… well, we’ve seen that story before.

  • 2025 NFL Draft: One Key Tip for Teams Drafting in Round 1

    2025 NFL Draft: One Key Tip for Teams Drafting in Round 1

    With the 2025 NFL Draft just around the corner (April 24-26 in Green Bay, Wisconsin), all 32 teams are in evaluation mode. The Titans have the #1 overall pick and are likely to take Miami QB Cam Ward, but the real drama starts at #2 with the Browns. The draft is going to be huge for teams looking to get game changers. But what should teams be thinking about as they make their Round 1 picks? Let’s break it down.

    Cleveland Browns: Resist the QB Hype, Build a Defensive Powerhouse

    The Browns’ eternal quest for a franchise qurterback has everyone speculating about Shedeur Sanders or Travis Hunter at #2. But going after another qurterback might not be the best move for Cleveland. Instead, the Browns should focus on building an identity – and that starts with defense.

    Abdul Carter, the Penn State edge rusher, is the prime candidate to pair with Myles Garrett and make one of the best pass rushing duos in the NFL. Drafting Sanders or Hunter will get the headlines, but drafting Carter will have an immediate impact and make the Browns a defensive force to be reckoned with.

    Yes, the Browns locked up Garrett through 2030, but giving Superman a sidekick could take this team to new heights. The Browns aren’t a qurterback away from being AFC champions – but they could be an Abdul Carter away from having the best edge rushing tandem in the league.

    Deep Defensive Line Class: Don’t Be Afraid to Double Down

    According to NFL.com draft analyst Lance Zierlein, this is a deep defensive line class. Teams shouldn’t be afraid to take multiple defensive linemen in the first 100 picks.

    “While drafting for need is understandable,” Zierlein says, “remember that impactful defensive players can be found on the edge and inside on Thursday and Friday. These players will be more valuable than reaching for an average cornerback or guard a round earlier than their grade.”

    For teams like the Browns, Jets or Giants, investing in a dominant defensive line will pay off for years to come. In a league where defense wins championships, loading up on pass rushers and interior disruptors is the way to go.

    Quarterback Conundrum: Build a Great Roster First

    Jeffri Chadiha’s advice to teams eyeing quarterbacks in the top 10 should give them pause. Six teams—Tennessee, Cleveland, the Giants, Las Vegas, the Jets and New Orleans—are desperate for a quarterback who can be that guy for the long haul. And when that temptation to grab a shiny new QB prospect comes along—think Cam Ward, Shedeur Sanders or Jaxson Dart—you can bet Chadiha will caution against overvaluing them.

    He points to the Eagles, who won a Super Bowl last year and nearly did it again in 2022. What made the difference? A strong supporting cast around Jalen Hurts. The 49ers won the NFC in 2023 with Brock Purdy at the helm. That was thanks to the players around him—the ones who made his job easier. Sam Darnold excelled last season because the Vikings gave him a solid foundation to work with.

    That’s the real takeaway: a quarterback alone can’t save a franchise. What Chadiha is saying is that you need to build a great team first. Then—maybe—you can expect great things from your rookie QB.

    Don’t Sleep on Ashton Jeanty

    Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty is the kind of player who can make you wonder what happens if you pass on him too early in the draft. That RB position is deep this year, but Jeanty stands out as a potentially special player. And if you don’t think he’s that special—well, you might just be making a costly mistake.

    Lance Zierlein loves Jeanty. He ranks him the No. 1 prospect in the draft and compares him to the great LaDainian Tomlinson. Daniel Jeremiah puts him third overall. That’s the kind of endorsement that should get Jeanty serious consideration from teams looking for the best player available—starting in the top five.

    The Jaguars, picking fifth overall, might have a decision to make. They already have Travis Etienne and Tank Bigsby. But, their rushing offense ranked 26th last year and 24th the year before. That’s not exactly the kind of production you’d expect from a team with that kind of talent. Adding Jeanty could change that. He could be the dynamic weapon to complement Trevor Lawrence that the Jaguars have been missing.

    “Don’t make the mistake of disrespecting Jeanty!” Zierlein warns. “Sacrificing greatness for good just isn’t a winning strategy.” That’s advice that should resonate with any team looking to make a real difference this season.

  • Evan Neal Open to Playing Guard for the New York Giants

    Evan Neal Open to Playing Guard for the New York Giants

    New York Giants general manager Joe Schoen made a telling comment during the NFL owners’ meetings on Monday. Evan Neal is now open to the idea of playing guard. That’s a big change from where Neal stood just a few years ago—he was adamant he was an offensive tackle. That was the position he was drafted to play in 2022, where he’s struggled to find his footing over three seasons.

    Jermaine Eluemunor’s success at right tackle last season and the addition of James Hudson III as depth make a move to guard look more and more like a good fit for Neal—and the Giants. What does this change mean for both Neal and the Giants?

    Why the Idea of Guard Makes Sense for Neal?

    Neal’s transition to guard is about unlocking the potential that’s been there all along—and doing that benefits everyone. Drafted as a tackle, Neal still hasn’t consistently delivered in that role. Last season, after coming back from ankle surgery, he stayed put at right tackle. Eluemunor slid over to left tackle because of injuries.

    That didn’t quite work out. Andrew Thomas’s injury and Josh Ezeudu and Chris Hubbard’s struggles on the left side forced the Giants to make some lineup changes. Neal started the final seven games of the season. That wasn’t enough to convince some people that tackle is where he belongs long-term.

    A Change in Attitude: From Resistance to Willingness

    Neal’s willingness to play guard shows just how far he’s come. That mindset shift became clear near the end of last season. Back then, Neal was adamant he wanted to prove himself at tackle. “As soon as I stepped out of the womb, I stepped out an offensive tackle. And that’s how I feel,” he said at the time.

    But as he enters the final year of his rookie contract, reality might have sunk in. Neal appears to be embracing that new role—and the adaptability that comes with it—because he knows his future with the Giants—and maybe the NFL—depends on it.

    “I’m open to doing whatever I can to help the team,” Neal said—that’s a far cry from the “I only want to play tackle” attitude he had just a few months prior. His tone has softened, and his priorities have shifted. He’s putting the team’s success first now.

    What This Means for the Giants’ Offensive Line?

    If Neal goes to guard, it would bring stability to a unit that needs it. The Giants have struggled to find consistency on the interior of the line, and Neal’s size, strength, and athleticism would be a good fit for the position.

    Plus, moving Neal to guard allows the Giants to keep their best players on the field without forcing square pegs into round holes. Eluemunor was good at right tackle last year, and with him and Neal inside it would be a better line overall. Neal inside would be a better line overall

  • Jameis Winston Believes He Can Transform the Giants’ Offense

    Jameis Winston Believes He Can Transform the Giants’ Offense

    When Jameis Winston signed with the New York Giants this offseason it wasn’t just about finding a team it was about defining his career. After a 3-14 season, the Giants are looking for a fresh start and Winston believes he can be a part of that.

    On Monday during his introductory press conference Winston explained why he chose the Giants despite having Russell Wilson on the roster. For Winston it wasn’t about competing for a starting job it was about being part of something bigger—a chance to help rebuild a franchise in the city.

    Why Winston Chose the Giants?

    Winston didn’t sugarcoat the Giants’ 2024 struggles but saw opportunity where others saw uncertainty.

    “This team is looking for a complete 180,” Winston said. “This team wants to make a splash and there’s no better place to do it than right here in New York City as a New York football Giant.”

    The Giants’ QB room went through a lot of changes this offseason. While the signing of Russell Wilson was a sign of stability at the position, Winston saw it as an opening not a roadblock.

    “My initial thought going into this offseason was to find an opportunity that gave me either a starting role or a bridge opportunity to be a starting quarterback,” Winston said. “And I think this situation is similar to that.”

    Winston said whether he’s competing with Wilson or mentoring a rookie quarterback taken with the 3rd overall pick he’s ready to contribute in any way.

    “Whether it’s a veteran quarterback I have to compete with and help serve and help make better for this team or it’s a quarterback from college I have to help get better, I have to compete with and serve.”

    Competing with Veterans and Rookies Alike

    Winston isn’t backing down from the challenge that lies ahead. At 31, he knows this could be one of his last chances to show he still has what it takes to lead an NFL offense—and to prove that to himself.

    “I don’t believe in coincidences,” Winston said. “What drew me to New York was a quarterback room that needed to get better—and make a difference. That window of opportunity opened up for me.

    Winston’s experience in Cleveland last season showed flashes of brilliance: those wins over the Ravens and Steelers, that 497-yard performance against the Broncos. But it also showed him where he needs to improve—like when he threw three interceptions in three different games.

    That competition between Winston and Wilson could actually elevate the entire Giants team. And if the Giants do draft a quarterback, Winston’s leadership could be just the thing to help develop the next generation of quarterbacks. That’s a role he’s eager to play.

    A Friendship with Russell Wilson

    Winston’s relationship with Russell Wilson was a big draw for the Giants. That relationship is built on mutual respect, even between competitors.

    Winston has said of Wilson: “My relationship with Russ is good.” Few people know just how much Wilson has shared with him. He was one of the quarterbacks who gave Winston a behind-the-scenes look at how he runs his businesses, takes care of his body, trains-and what he does to get mentally prepared.

    That kind of rapport between two of the team’s quarterbacks can create a really collaborative environment in the quarterback room. And that benefits both the players and the team as a whole.