The New York Giants are making moves this offseason, and they are not playing around with their quarterback situation. General Manager Joe Schoen is leaving no stone unturned in finding the right guy to lead Big Blue. With the signings of veteran quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston, the Giants have gotten started—but they are not done yet. Here’s the breakdown on what this means for the team’s salary cap, depth chart and draft strategy.
Giants Sign Russell Wilson: A Veteran Bet
The Giants have agreed to terms with Russell Wilson on a one year deal worth $10.5 million guaranteed, $21 million max. This comes on the heels of signing Jameis Winston to a two year deal worth $8 million per year (plus incentives). According to sources, the Giants see Wilson as a short term solution who can compete for the job while mentoring younger players.
What Russell Brings to the Table
At 36 years old, Wilson is not the same guy he was five years ago but showed flashes of brilliance with the Pittsburgh Steelers last season. 63.7% completion rate, 16 touchdowns, 5 interceptions. He still has something left in the tank—just not consistently. His experience and leadership would be huge for a young locker room especially if the Giants draft a rookie quarterback.
But questions remain about his durability and ability to play at an elite level for a full season. If he struggles the Giants can pivot to other options without being locked into a long term deal.
Jameis Winston: The Backup with Starter Potential
The addition of Jameis Winston adds another layer to the Giants’ QB room. He’s an aggressive player who brings excitement and risk. Over the last few years he’s shown he can make big plays but also turn it over.
Under Brian Daboll he could thrive. Daboll is a coach who tailors his offense to his QBs and that could help mitigate Winston’s mistakes and maximize his arm talent. Worst case he’s a solid backup or bridge starter if Wilson falters.
League insiders say Winston may be a better mentor for a rookie QB than even Aaron Rodgers or Wilson himself. His personality and approach fits well with helping younger players grow.
Tommy DeVito: The Local Legend
Tommy DeVito, the local boy from New Jersey, returns to the Giants after signing his ERFA tender. His role is unknown but he has an edge over the newcomers. Whether he sticks as the 3rd QB, lands on the practice squad or finds opportunities elsewhere will depend on how the rest of the offseason plays out.
For now he’s a body in the system—a player who knows the playbook and can contribute in small ways.
Current Giants QB Depth Chart
Here’s how the quarterback room looks after all these moves:
- Russell Wilson: Starter going into camp. He gets first crack at the job.
- Jameis Winston: Backup with starter potential. Steps in if Wilson falters or gets hurt.
- Tommy DeVito: Familiar face with system knowledge. Developmental option.
Drafting the Future: Shedeur Sanders, Cam Ward, and Beyond
They added two veterans but the Giants aren’t ruling out drafting a quarterback at 3. League sources say Cam Ward is favored by the Titans at 1, leaving Shedeur Sanders as the likely target at 3 if they stay put. But don’t rule out a trade up if they fall in love with a prospect.
If the Giants pass on a QB at 3, they could go after another elite non-QB prospect like CB/WR Travis Hunter or LB Abdul Carter . Then they’d focus on QB later in the draft and use their 2nd round pick (34) to grab a developmental QB.
Pre-Draft Process Underway
The Giants are doing 30 visits with top QBs, including Sanders, Ward and others. Unlike last year’s WR group workout, these visits will be separate so the coaches and front office can evaluate each prospect individually. Pro Days and private workouts will also be factored in before they finalize their consensus.
Salary Cap Implications
They haven’t spent all their money in free agency. Wilson’s one year deal keeps cap hits manageable going forward and Winston’s incentive-laden contract keeps costs low unless he exceeds expectations. This allows them to allocate resources to other positions of need like OL and defense.
According to league insiders, the Giants are committed to being under the cap while building a competitive team. They’re willing to roll the dice on multiple QBs because it’s a long term play for stability under center.
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