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

Tag: Jaxson Dart

  • Giants Rookies Update: Shedeur Sanders Out, Jaxson Dart In And Abdul Carter Stepping Up

    Giants Rookies Update: Shedeur Sanders Out, Jaxson Dart In And Abdul Carter Stepping Up

    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.

  • Giants New QB Era Could Mean a Shift for Darius Slayton

    Giants New QB Era Could Mean a Shift for Darius Slayton

    As the New York Giants usher in a new era under Russell Wilson, all eyes are on how this shift will affect the rest of the roster, especially Darius Slayton, the veteran wide receiver entering a pivotal phase of his career.

    Slayton has been one of the few consistent offensive weapons over the past few seasons. Now, with a new quarterback calling the shots, his role could either expand or be reshaped entirely.

    The transition from Daniel Jones to Wilson isn’t just about name value — it’s about offensive identity, scheme adjustments, and chemistry building.

    And for Slayton, that means adapting fast.

    From Familiarity to Uncertainty: Adjusting to a New QB

    For years, Slayton developed chemistry with Daniel Jones, learning timing, tendencies, and trust within the system. But with Jones now gone and Wilson stepping in, everything resets.

    Wilson brings a different skill set — more mobility, better off-script playmaking, and a proven track record of elevating receivers.

    That should be good news — but only if Slayton can find his place in the new playbook.

    Head coach Brian Daboll has already hinted at changes, saying:

    “We’re going to build around what Russell does well — and that might mean some guys have to adjust their roles.”

    For Slayton, that’s both a challenge and an opportunity.

    Proven Resilience and Adaptability

    Slayton has never had it easy.

    From battling injuries to adjusting to coaching changes and shifting schemes, he’s shown resilience time and again.

    He was drafted in 2019 as a deep threat, became a fan favorite for his explosive plays, and evolved into a reliable mid-range target even during the team’s struggles.

    Now, he must prove once again that he can thrive under a new leader — something he’s confident he can do.

    “I’ve played with different quarterbacks before,” Slayton said during minicamp.
    “It’s about communication, timing, and understanding each other’s rhythm. I’m ready for that challenge.”

    Chemistry Building Will Define His Role

    There’s no doubt that Slayton has the talent to contribute — but in a passing game now built around Wilson’s leadership and Jaxson Dart’s development, every route, timing adjustment, and locker room connection matters.

    Chemistry is often overlooked by fans, but any quarterback-receiver duo needs to succeed.

    Slayton knows that bonding with Wilson won’t happen overnight. That’s why he’s putting in extra work during OTAs and minicamp, focusing not just on reps but on building trust.

    “You can tell when a guy trusts you,” Slayton added.
    “That comes through communication, eye contact, and consistency. That’s what we’re working on right now.”

    If he can earn that trust early, he’ll remain a key cog in the Giants’ passing attack.

    If not?

    He may find himself pushed down the depth chart.

    What This Means for the Giants’ Offense?

    Under Wilson, the Giants are expected to run a more mobile, high-tempo offense — one that relies on quick reads, pre-snap motion, and smart route running.

    Slayton fits into that picture, but he’ll need to show he can adapt beyond being a deep threat.

    His ability to create separation, read defenses, and make contested catches will be tested more than ever.

    Coaches have praised his work ethic and route discipline this offseason, suggesting he’s doing more than just showing up — he’s buying in.

    But in today’s NFL, that’s only part of the equation.

    Slayton must also stand out in camp, earn Wilson’s confidence, and show he still has upside, especially with younger players like Malik Nabers and Jalen Wydermyer rising fast.

    Final Takeaway: Make-or-Break Season for Slayton

    Darius Slayton isn’t just another piece in the puzzle — he’s a player whose development under Wilson could define the Giants’ offensive identity in 2025.

    Will he become a trusted go-to guy?

    Or will he fade into a situational role behind newer, flashier names?

    This season will answer that.

    And for Slayton, there’s no better time to prove he still belongs in the starting lineup.

    Because in the NFL, opportunity doesn’t last forever.

    And with a new quarterback in town, this is Slayton’s moment to step up or step aside.

  • New Shedeur Sanders Outlook Boosts Giants Jaxson Dart Decision

    New Shedeur Sanders Outlook Boosts Giants Jaxson Dart Decision

    When Shedeur Sanders fell all the way to the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, it was a shocking turn of events for a player once projected as a potential first-round pick. The Cleveland Browns scooped him up at No. 147 — but early signs from Berea suggest that his pro journey is off to a rocky start.

    Sanders has been described as “fine” during Cleveland’s offseason program — not exactly the kind of praise that inspires confidence in a team desperate for quarterback stability.

    Meanwhile, the New York Giants, who passed on Sanders multiple times, appear to have made the smarter move by selecting Jaxson Dart — the Ole Miss product they believe can be their long-term answer under center.

    A Tough Road Ahead for Sanders in Cleveland

    It’s no secret that the Browns are in full rebuild mode — and that includes the quarterback room.

    Sanders entered a crowded mix that already features:

    • Dillon Gabriel (2025 third-round pick)
    • Kenny Pickett (former first-round selection)

    And now, according to a new mock draft by Pro Football Sports Network, Cleveland could be moving on from Sanders as soon as next year, replacing him with none other than Arch Manning at No. 1 overall.

    “Projected as the 2026 class’s most coveted prospect… Arch Manning could end up the consensus No. 1 pick sooner rather than later.”

    That’s not just speculation — it’s a warning sign for Sanders: if he doesn’t separate himself quickly, he may not even make it through Year 1 as the face of the franchise.

    Unlike Dart, who was drafted to be the future and given every chance to grow into the role, Sanders is viewed as a low-cost experiment — one easily discarded if better options come along.

    Giants Made the Right Call Going with Dart Over Sanders

    Back in April, the Giants had two clear quarterback options: go with the flashy name in Shedeur Sanders, or take the polished college starter in Jaxson Dart.

    They chose Dart — and so far, that decision looks more justified.

    While Sanders struggles to stand out in Cleveland, Dart has impressed coaches with his football IQ, leadership, and grasp of Brian Daboll’s system.

    The Giants didn’t just draft him to sit — they picked him to develop, protect, and eventually hand the keys over to him.

    And unlike Cleveland, New York isn’t in a rush to move on from its young QB.

    Daboll recently praised Dart’s progress:

    “He’s done everything we’ve asked of him. He’s very coachable, very sharp. He’s earned the right to compete.”

    That kind of vote of confidence is something Sanders hasn’t received yet — and may not get anytime soon.

    Why Sanders Needs a Breakout Rookie Season — And Soon

    For all the hype surrounding Sanders coming out of Colorado, expectations were high, and his fall to the fifth round raised serious questions about his readiness for the pros.

    Now, he faces an uphill battle:

    • Battling older veterans and newer picks
    • Competing in a QB room with no real loyalty
    • Proving he belongs before the Browns look elsewhere in 2026

    If he fails to win the starting job this year — or even show consistent growth — there’s little reason to believe Cleveland will stick with him long term.

    Sanders needs to do more than just survive — he needs to dominate.

    But early reports don’t suggest that’s happening.

    What This Means for the Giants’ QB Future?

    For the Giants, watching Sanders struggle while Dart thrives only reinforces the belief that they made the right call.

    They wanted a quarterback with:

    • A strong understanding of timing-based passing concepts
    • Experience managing a pro-style offense
    • Mental toughness and adaptability

    Dart checks all those boxes.

    Sanders, despite his pedigree and name recognition, still has to prove he can thrive outside of the spotlight and perform consistently in a structured environment.

    And with the Browns already eyeing Arch Manning in 2026, Sanders might not even get a full season to prove himself.

    Final Takeaway: The Giants Dodged a Bullet — For Now

    Shedeur Sanders falling to the fifth round was a red flag.

    His early performance in Cleveland? Another one.

    While it’s still early, the writing is on the wall — the Browns aren’t fully committed to him, and unless he makes them change their minds, he could be gone before he ever gets comfortable.

    On the flip side, Jaxson Dart is getting every opportunity to grow and lead the Giants forward — and so far, he’s making the most of it.

    In hindsight, the Giants didn’t just make a smart pick — they avoided a potentially costly mistake.

    And as the dust settles on the 2025 draft class, it’s looking more and more like Big Blue made the better choice.

  • Brian Daboll Reveals Giants QB Key to Practice Adjustment

    Brian Daboll Reveals Giants QB Key to Practice Adjustment

    When the New York Giants signed Russell Wilson, they didn’t just add a veteran quarterback — they brought in a leader who could influence the team from day one.

    And that influence is already showing up in how the team structures its practices.

    During a recent media session, head coach Brian Daboll revealed that Wilson played a key role in implementing changes to the Giants’ offseason workout routine — specifically, an increase in seven-on-seven drills.

    “Obviously, we’ve added some more seven-on-seven reps here. That’s something that Russell feels really good about,” Daboll said.

    These situational-based drills allow quarterbacks and receivers to work on timing, reads, and coverage recognition — all without the full pressure of an 11-on-11 setting. It’s also beneficial for defenders, helping them match routes, adjust zones, and simulate real-game scenarios during non-contact periods.

    Wilson’s input came naturally. With experience under legendary coaches like Pete Carroll, Sean Payton, and Mike Tomlin, he brings a perspective few others do.

    A Mentor and Leader for the Locker Room

    Beyond his impact on the field, Wilson has quickly become a central figure in the locker room.

    His leadership, relentless energy, and willingness to mentor rookie Jaxson Dart have not gone unnoticed.

    Daboll praised Wilson’s approach:

    “He’s been good for us in a number of ways since he’s been out here.”

    That includes offering feedback on practice structure, working with young players, and reinforcing the culture Daboll wants to build in East Rutherford.

    Wilson sees himself not just as a starter, but as a teacher and guide, especially for Dart, whom the Giants drafted in the first round this year with hopes of grooming him into a long-term solution at quarterback.

    The early signs are promising: Wilson is fully invested, both in helping the team win now and preparing for the future.

    How the Seven-on-Seven Change Helps the Giants

    The Giants’ decision to increase seven-on-seven reps isn’t just about getting extra throws in — it’s strategic.

    As Daboll explained:

    “You can do a half line to see coverages. You can do a full field, seven on seven… We’ve placed a little bit more emphasis on it.”

    This type of rep helps quarterbacks like Wilson and Dart work through progressions, while also giving defenders, particularly the back seven, opportunities to react and adjust in real time.

    It’s a subtle but important tweak to their preparation — and one that Wilson helped shape based on what he’s seen throughout his career.

    Looking Ahead: Building Chemistry Before Training Camp

    With minicamp wrapping up, the Giants now turn their attention to training camp, where things will get significantly more intense.

    But the foundation laid this spring, led by veterans like Wilson, will be critical in ensuring the team stays on the same page.

    Whether it’s leading huddles, guiding young players through film sessions, or influencing coaching decisions, Wilson is doing more than just playing quarterback.

    He’s helping reshape the Giants’ identity — one rep at a time.

  • Russell Wilson Sparks Giants Rebuild with Help from Abdul Carter and Jaxson Dart

    Russell Wilson Sparks Giants Rebuild with Help from Abdul Carter and Jaxson Dart

    As the summer break approaches, the New York Giants’ coaching staff is working behind the scenes to set the table for the season. Head coach Brian Daboll has been methodically guiding his team through this critical transition period, making sure every player, new and old, is on the same page and ready to go when training camp starts in late July.

    This mandatory minicamp is the last chance for adjustments before the real work begins. With limited contact practices in the spring, these sessions have been huge for team chemistry and tactical execution.

    Spring Practices: Building Chemistry Without Setbacks

    Despite the restrictions on physical contact in the spring, the Giants have made progress. The roster is relatively healthy with no major injury concerns from last season. This clean slate has allowed players to focus on learning schemes and building trust on the field.

    One of the biggest additions this offseason has been quarterback Russell Wilson, whose leadership is already changing the locker room culture. He brings experience and a winning mentality that resonates throughout the team.

    Russell Wilson: The Veteran Catalyst

    Wilson has fit in seamlessly into the Giants’ offense. He’s known for his poise under pressure and ability to elevate those around him and is already the emotional and strategic heart of the team. From film study to huddle leadership, his influence is visible in how younger players approach their roles.

    His veteran savvy matches the coaching staff’s vision perfectly and helps streamline offensive concepts and communication across units. For a team looking to turn the page after a few tough seasons, having a proven leader like Wilson at the helm feels like stability and direction.

    Rising Talent: Abdul Carter and Jaxson Dart Shine

    While the Giants are leaning on Wilson’s experience, they’re also investing in the future — and it shows. First-round picks Abdul Carter and Jaxson Dart are already making an impact.

    Carter, a versatile linebacker from Penn State, has brought an edge to the defense. His instincts and physicality show up even in non-contact situations, and he’s ready to go right now. Coaches are raving about his football IQ and natural ability to read plays.

    On offense, Dart, a developmental player, has shown some juice. His calmness and quickness have earned him praise from coaches and teammates. With Wilson’s guidance, he could be on his way to being a long-term piece of the Giants’ puzzle.

    Building a Winning Culture

    Minicamp is behind us, now it’s time for training camp in late July. That’s when the real work begins — full pads, contact practices, and preseason games will show us how far we’ve come.

    For now, the foundation is being laid. And if spring is any indication, Giants fans have reason to be excited.

    Building Toward Greatness

    The New York Giants aren’t rebuilding — they’re rebranding. With Russell Wilson at the helm and Abdul Carter and Jaxson Dart on the rise, the future looks good.

    This isn’t about one year; it’s about being a winner for years to come. And with the right pieces in place, Big Blue Nation will soon be back on top.

  • Giants Could Ditch Russell Wilson, Jaxson Dart Is the New Hope

    Giants Could Ditch Russell Wilson, Jaxson Dart Is the New Hope

    The New York Giants made headlines when they signed veteran quarterback Russell Wilson to lead their offense in 2025. On paper, it seemed like a solid move—Wilson brings experience, leadership, and a Super Bowl ring to the table. But as ESPN’s Dan Graziano points out in a recent article, Wilson’s position as the starter might not last long if things don’t go as planned.

    Graziano uses an intriguing word to describe what could happen: “temptation.” The temptation, in this case, is the allure of giving rookie Jaxson Dart a chance to shine early in the season. While the Giants have veteran options like Wilson and Jameis Winston to lean on, the reality is that rookies often get thrown into the mix faster than teams initially plan.

    Why Jaxson Dart Represents the Future for the Giants?

    Let’s face it—Jaxson Dart is the future of the franchise. The Giants drafted him with the intention of grooming him into their next franchise quarterback. While Wilson and Winston were brought in to provide stability and mentorship, the team knows that Dart is the only path to a brighter tomorrow.

    As Graziano notes, the Giants’ situation mirrors what happened with the Patriots last season. They started the year with Jacoby Brissett under center, but after a string of losses, rookie Drake Maye was thrust into the starting role by Week 6. Unless the Giants are scoring points and winning games at a surprising rate early on, it’s hard to imagine them resisting the urge to see what Dart can do.

    Russell Wilson’s Struggles Cast Doubt on His Longevity in New York

    Russell Wilson’s time in Pittsburgh last season didn’t exactly inspire confidence. He struggled to recapture the magic that once made him one of the NFL’s elite quarterbacks. Meanwhile, Jameis Winston, who played for the Browns in 2024, was arguably the more productive passer between the two veterans.

    While Wilson’s experience is valuable, his declining performance raises questions about how long he can hold off Dart. If the Giants find themselves out of playoff contention midway through the season, it’s not hard to imagine them turning to the rookie as a way to build for the future.

    A Mentorship Plan That Can’t Last Forever

    The Giants likely plan to keep Wilson and Winston around to mentor Dart, at least in the short term. Having veteran quarterbacks in the locker room can be invaluable for a young player still learning the ropes of the NFL. However, there comes a point where mentorship takes a backseat to development.

    If Dart shows he’s ready to take the reins, the Giants can’t afford to hold him back. The organization needs to prioritize its long-term success over clinging to a fading veteran like Wilson. Fans should expect the transition to happen sooner rather than later if the team starts faltering early in the season.

    The Inevitable Shift: When Will Dart Take Over?

    It’s not a matter of if Jaxson Dart will start for the Giants—it’s a matter of when. If the Giants stumble out of the gate, the calls for Dart to replace Wilson will grow louder with each loss. Graziano’s prediction feels spot-on: teams rarely stick to their “sit the rookie” plans when the season starts going south.

    For Giants fans, this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Dart represents hope—a fresh start for a franchise that has struggled to find consistency at the quarterback position. While Wilson and Winston are placeholders, Dart is the player who could lead the Giants back to relevance.

  • Victor Cruz Boldly Predicts Giants Rise in 2025: ‘We Have a Good Team

    Victor Cruz Boldly Predicts Giants Rise in 2025: ‘We Have a Good Team

    Victor Cruz stood in the middle of Liberty State Park in Jersey City, N.J., on Wednesday with the Manhattan skyline in the background. The sun was shining — it was an 84-degree day — and while he was dressed in a suit for a 2026 World Cup event, the former Giants wide receiver couldn’t help but reflect on the upcoming New York Giants season.

    Though he doesn’t miss lacing up in pads or sweating under the New Jersey sun, Cruz still felt the familiar pull of football when asked about the team’s direction as minicamp approaches.

    “I’m out here in this heat in the suit, and I don’t miss it. Let alone being out there with half pads and shorts,” Cruz said with a laugh.

    But his tone shifted quickly when he spoke about what the future holds for Big Blue.

    Cruz Feels This Year Is Different

    Cruz won’t be suiting up anytime soon, but after a recent visit to the Giants’ facility in East Rutherford, he admitted something surprising — he got that nostalgic feeling again.

    “I started to get the bug back. I started stretching. I was like, hold on, Vic, what are you doing?” Cruz said. “But being back there and missing the guys and being in the locker room and just having that energy back a little bit. It’s a little nostalgic for me.”

    That energy is now directed toward the 2025 season, and Cruz believes this year could mark a turning point for the Giants.

    “I think we have a good team,” Cruz said confidently. “I think for the first time, [head coach Brian Daboll] has a team in a draft that you could feel he wrapped his arms around. These are his guys, and we’ll see how he develops them and gets them ready to play.”

    Drafting for the Future

    The Giants took a bold step in the 2025 NFL Draft by selecting edge rusher Abdul Carter at No. 3 overall and trading back into the first round to pick quarterback Jaxson Dart at No. 25.

    For Cruz, this move signals a new chapter for the franchise — one led by Daboll’s vision and built around young talent.

    He especially likes the idea of Jaxson Dart learning from two veteran quarterbacks: Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston.

    “I think Jaxson could learn some things from both of those guys,” Cruz explained. “Russell is the ultimate pro’s pro , and Jameis brings that gunslinger sort of mentality . That combination can only help Dart grow.”

    With Wilson and Winston mentoring Dart, Cruz sees potential for a strong offensive identity and better quarterback development than in previous years.

    Cruz’s Take on the Coaching Staff

    Cruz also praised the direction under Brian Daboll, saying this might be the first time he feels like the head coach truly has control over the roster and draft class.

    “These are his guys,” Cruz emphasized. “He’s not just inheriting talent — he’s building it.”

    That kind of ownership is key to long-term success, and if Daboll can mold this young core into a consistent winner, the Giants could be on the rise.

    Beyond Football: The 2026 World Cup Connection

    While Cruz was speaking about the Giants, he was also emceeing a major event celebrating the lead-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup , which will include eight matches at MetLife Stadium, including the final.

    And Liberty State Park? That’s where the FIFA Fan Festival will take place — a massive celebration open to fans who want to soak in the global soccer atmosphere.

    Cruz called the event “iconic,” comparing it to any big game he’s ever played in.

    “We’re talking about the biggest sporting event in the world coming to the New York-New Jersey region,” he said. “This park will be the place in the country where fans can catch every single one of the 104 matches — right here on these grounds, with views of the Statue of Liberty and all the vibes happening. It’s going to be incredible.”

    It’s a fitting backdrop for someone who once made iconic plays on the gridiron — now preparing to celebrate another global sports moment.

    Final Thoughts: Big Blue’s Time May Be Coming

    Victor Cruz may no longer be playing, but he still carries the heart of a Giant. And based on what he saw during his visit to the facility and the moves the front office has made, he believes the pieces are finally in place.

    If the Giants can stay healthy and develop their young core, they might just surprise everyone in 2025.

    As Cruz put it:

    “We have a good team.”

    Three simple words — but for Giants fans, they carry a lot of weight.

  • Is Cam Skattebo the Next Saquon Barkley? His Highlights Say Yes

    Is Cam Skattebo the Next Saquon Barkley? His Highlights Say Yes

    Cam Skattebo wasn’t supposed to be the story this summer. A fourth-round pick out of Arizona State, he entered the New York Giants’ camp with little fanfare, overshadowed by higher-profile rookies and veterans alike.

    But as practices have unfolded, one name keeps coming up in locker room conversations and scout reports: Skattebo.

    He plays with a chip on his shoulder, a bruising running style, and a relentless work ethic that’s hard to ignore. And now, people are starting to notice — including scouts who see echoes of a familiar name when they watch him play.

    Yes, some are even asking: Is Skattebo the next Saquon Barkley?

    Not in terms of hype or draft pedigree — but in heart, versatility, and potential impact on the Giants’ offense.

    The Saquon Comparison – More Than Just Hype

    It’s easy to dismiss the comparison at first glance. Barkley was a No. 2 overall pick, a track star with rare athleticism and jaw-dropping highlight reels. Skattebo is none of those things — at least not in the same way.

    But what he lacks in pure speed, he makes up for in physicality, vision, and grit. He doesn’t dance around defenders — he runs through them.

    A NFC scout recently put it best:

    “Cam Skattebo is a name that keeps popping up, and for good reason. He’s got that underdog energy, and he doesn’t shy away from contact. He reminds you a bit of those classic workhorse backs — the ones who grind out yards and wear down defenses.”

    That kind of praise might not land him on a rookie card anytime soon, but it does something more important: it earns respect inside the building.

    And for a team still finding its identity after Barkley’s departure, that kind of player matters.

    A Backfield Wide Open

    With Saquon gone, the Giants’ backfield is no longer defined by one man’s dominance. Instead, it’s wide open, and Skattebo is taking full advantage.

    While fifth-round pick Tyrone Tracy Jr. has drawn attention for his versatility and speed, questions remain about his durability and ability to handle a full workload. That leaves the door cracked — and Skattebo is walking right through it.

    His approach is simple: run hard, catch passes, block well, and contribute on special teams. There’s nothing flashy about it — just consistent, reliable football.

    And in the NFC East, where cold weather games and tough sledding define December football, that kind of player could become essential.

    Building Something With Jaxson Dart

    Skattebo isn’t the only rookie trying to make an early impression.

    Enter Jaxson Dart, the Giants’ young quarterback who also flew under the radar during the draft. Like Skattebo, Dart is determined to prove he belongs — and together, the two could form a gritty, hard-nosed duo capable of reshaping the Giants’ offensive identity.

    Head coach Brian Daboll loves players who maximize their skill set, and Skattebo fits that mold perfectly. Whether it’s picking up blitzes, converting short-yardage situations, or stretching the field as a receiver, Skattebo is showing he can do it all.

    If Dart earns the nod under center, having a back like Skattebo could give the offense a much-needed spark.

    What Coaches Are Saying

    Inside the facility, the buzz around Skattebo is growing.

    One anonymous assistant coach praised his football IQ and work ethic:

    “He might not be the fastest or most explosive guy out there, but he knows how to play the position. And that matters.”

    In a league obsessed with upside and ceiling, Skattebo is proving that preparation, consistency, and toughness still count for something.

    Final Thought: A Blueprint for Success

    Cam Skattebo isn’t trying to be the second coming of Saquon Barkley — but maybe that’s the point.

    Barkley brought flash. Skattebo brings fight.

    He’s not going to wow anyone with a 40-yard dash time, but he will earn every yard, take every hit, and do whatever it takes to help his team win.

    For Giants fans hungry for a new identity, Skattebo might be the kind of player they didn’t know they needed.

    And if he keeps showing up like this, it won’t be long before nobody overlooks him again.

  • New York Giants Linked to Elite 2026 Offensive Lineman

    New York Giants Linked to Elite 2026 Offensive Lineman

    For the New York Giants, protecting their young quarterback isn’t just important — it’s essential. With Jaxson Dart seen by many as the long-term answer under center, the team faces a critical question: How do they keep him upright and give him time to develop?

    One of the best ways? Strengthening the offensive line.

    And according to the latest 2026 NFL mock draft from Pro Football Sports Network, the Giants could land one of the most coveted prospects in the class: Kadyn Proctor, a blue-chip offensive tackle out of Alabama.

    If this projection comes true, it could reshape the entire trajectory of Big Blue’s offense.

    Why Kadyn Proctor Makes Sense

    Proctor, a massive and technically sound tackle, has drawn rave reviews for his ability to thrive in both gap and zone blocking schemes — something that fits perfectly with the Giants’ current system.

    Though he typically plays left tackle, the mock suggests he’d slide over to the right side, where he can use his strength and footwork to dominate at the point of attack.

    Paired with Andrew Thomas, who continues to blossom into one of the league’s top left tackles, Proctor would give the Giants a formidable bookend duo — potentially the best they’ve had in years.

    That kind of protection could make all the difference for Dart, allowing him to grow without constantly dodging defenders in the backfield.

    The Bigger Picture: A Rebuild or a Reset?

    Of course, there’s a catch.

    For the Giants to land the first overall pick, things would have to go very wrong in 2025. That means continued struggles for Dart, a defense that underperforms despite its potential, and possibly even a coaching change or front office shake-up.

    In other words, if this mock becomes reality, it won’t be because everything went right.

    A first-overall selection implies a disastrous season, which would likely mean a new general manager — and possibly a new head coach — making the call on draft day.

    And in that scenario, even Dart might not be safe.

    What This Means for the Future

    Right now, Dart is considered the quarterback of the future. But football is a business, and a fresh regime might have different ideas.

    If the Giants end up with the top pick and bring in a new brain trust, the direction of the franchise could shift dramatically.

    Still, landing a player like Proctor wouldn’t be a bad consolation prize. Even if Dart’s future becomes uncertain, having elite protection on the edges would help whoever ends up under center.

    And if the Giants do stick with Dart, giving him time to throw could finally unlock his potential.

    Final Thought: Hope Through the Chaos

    While no fan wants to see another rough season, the idea of adding a talent like Kadyn Proctor brings some silver lining.

    Whether the Giants are rebuilding or retooling, investing in elite protection for the quarterback is never a bad move.

    And for now, with uncertainty swirling around the roster and coaching staff, the 2026 draft offers a chance to start over, or at least start better.

  • Can Jaxson Dart Dethrone Russell Wilson as Giants QB Starter?

    Can Jaxson Dart Dethrone Russell Wilson as Giants QB Starter?

    Russell Wilson, the former Seahawks star, is entering his 14th NFL season and is the front runner to start at quarterback for the New York Giants in 2025. Though he’s past his prime years, Wilson’s experience and early work in OTAs has him as the top guy to lead the Giants’ offense this season.

    He’s had his ups and downs — a trade to the Broncos, a stint with the Steelers, a one year deal with the Giants — but he’s consistently shown he can still play at a high level.

    Wilson Leads Early in the QB Race

    According to Charlotte Carroll of The Athletic, during the Giants’ first OTAs, Wilson got the majority of the first team reps, so the coaching staff sees him as the early favorite to start Week 1.

    His age and recent play has raised questions, but his leadership and veteran presence is a big asset for a team rebuilding.

    Winston Still in the Mix, But Not the Favorite

    Jameis Winston, who had some moments during his time with the Browns last year, is still in the mix but struggles with consistency, so he won’t be the full time starter.

    Winston did get some first team reps in OTAs, but Wilson’s experience and steadiness has him ahead.

    Jaxson Dart: The Rising Star

    The wild card is rookie Jaxson Dart, the Giants’ first round pick at 25 in the 2025 NFL Draft. Dart rose up the draft boards late and is considered the third best quarterback prospect behind Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders.

    His game is raw, but Dart’s talent and ability to make an impact right away can’t be ignored. He brings a fresh perspective and energy to the Giants’ offense and if he keeps improving he’ll challenge Wilson for the job.

    What it means for the Giants and Brian Daboll

    This quarterback competition has big implications for the players but also for Giants head coach Brian Daboll whose job is tied to the team’s success.

    A strong rookie season from Dart could give Daboll a way to keep his job, a good season from Wilson would stabilize the situation for the coach.

    Who will win the job?

    For now the Giants are going with Wilson’s experience and leadership but the pressure is on both the quarterback and the head coach.

    As training camp approaches all eyes will be on Wilson and Dart to see who can win the job and help the Giants compete in what should be a tough season.