As the New York Giants move forward into the heart of the offseason, one decision continues to stand out as a defining moment from the 2025 NFL Draft: passing on Shedeur Sanders and going all-in on defense with the third overall pick, selecting Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter.
There was no shortage of pressure to go quarterback early. Shedeur Sanders’ name was everywhere in pre-draft hype, but the Giants stayed patient, focused, and smart.
Instead of reaching for a flashy name with question marks around consistency and readiness, they took a player who fits immediately: a high-motor, multi-dimensional defender with elite instincts and physicality.
And early signs suggest that the choice was spot-on.
Abdul Carter Is Already Making an Impact
Carter didn’t just show up to rookie minicamp — he showed out.
At Penn State, he was known for his ability to disrupt plays before they developed. That same energy has carried over to the Giants’ spring practices.
“He’s been everything we hoped for,” said a team source.
“Explosive, fast, instinctive — exactly what our defense needed.”
While comparisons have been drawn between Carter and Micah Parsons — another former Nittany Lion turned NFL star — many inside the league see him more like LaVar Arrington, the Giants’ former All-Pro linebacker who could rush the passer, drop into coverage, and chase down ball carriers from sideline to sideline.
With Quay Walker sidelined this spring, Carter got every opportunity to shine — and he did.
That kind of early impact is why the Giants gave him the green light at No. 3.
Jaxson Dart Was the QB Worth Moving Up For
After nailing the defensive side of the ball with Carter, the Giants circled back to offense and went all-in on their quarterback of the future.
They traded up late in the first round to secure Ole Miss product Jaxson Dart, giving themselves a developmental option behind Russell Wilson while setting up a clear succession plan for years to come.
Dart brings:
- Elite football IQ
- Poise under pressure
- A strong arm and better accuracy than most expected
Despite some concerns about his deep-ball timing and pocket presence, Dart impressed during rookie workouts — enough to make fans feel confident that the Giants made the right move by investing in him late in Round 1.
“He’s not coming in to start day one, but he’s got time to grow — and the system to do it,” said one coach after minicamp.
That patience is key.
And so far, Dart is making the most of it.
Why the Giants Dodged a Bullet by Avoiding Shedeur Sanders
Shedeur Sanders was the media darling of the draft cycle, but not necessarily the best fit for the Giants.
His raw talent is undeniable, but questions lingered around:
- Consistency under pressure
- Footwork and pocket awareness
- Ability to adapt outside of Colorado’s system
Those red flags were enough for GM Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll to look elsewhere with the third pick — and instead, bring him in later if needed.
In the end, they never did.
Sanders slid all the way to the fifth round, where he was picked up by the Cleveland Browns — and already, doubts are growing about whether he can win the starting job there.
Meanwhile, Carter is already earning praise, and Dart is proving he belongs.
That alone makes the Giants’ strategy a win.
Supporting Cast Finds Immediate Fit
Beyond the top two selections, the Giants built depth across the roster, especially on defense and special teams.
Among the standout additions:
- Cam Skattebo (Round 3): Instant fan favorite, tough runner, and explosive finisher. Could push for third-down work early.
- Darius Alexander (Round 3): Gap-shooting defensive tackle who complements Dexter Lawrence well.
- Marcus Mbow (Round 5): Athletic guard with upside, needs strength but shows promise in zone schemes.
- Thomas Fidone II (Round 7): Underutilized tight end with NFL size and catching ability — perfect developmental piece.
These picks weren’t flashy, but they were functional — and that’s exactly how the Giants want to build this roster.
Smart. Balanced. Competitive.
Final Takeaway: Giants Made Smart Rookie Decisions
Looking back at the 2025 draft class, the New York Giants came away with exactly what they needed.
A ready-made impact player in Abdul Carter, a quarterback worth developing in Jaxson Dart, and a group of late-round prospects who could contribute early.
Most importantly, they avoided the trap of drafting a quarterback at No. 3 simply because of external pressure.
That restraint — and clarity — is paying off already.
Now, the focus shifts to training camp, and seeing how these rookies continue to develop.
Because of early returns?
This class might be something special.
