REPORT: New York Giants’ free agency moves signal major 2025 NFL Draft strategy pivot
The New York Giants have been active in free agency, focusing on retaining and adding players to address key positions.
Their biggest move came on Friday when they secured quarterback Jameis Winston on a two-year, $8 million deal. Acquiring a veteran quarterback was general manager Joe Schoen’s primary goal this offseason, and he has now checked that off his list.
However, the draft remains the most crucial avenue for building a strong roster, and for the Giants to have a successful season, Schoen must put together a solid draft class. The team’s free agency moves provide insight into their likely approach for the draft.
Giants no longer need to trade up in draft to take QB
There’s still a strong possibility that either Ward or Sanders will be available when the Giants pick third overall. If both are off the board, the team might consider trading back to gain additional picks and selecting Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart later in the first round.
Winston’s presence allows the Giants to be patient, letting the draft unfold rather than feeling compelled to make a move to secure a quarterback.
Travis Hunter less likely option at No. 3 overall
Earlier this offseason, many mock drafts projected the Giants to select Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter with the third overall pick. While some still predict this outcome, most analysts now expect the team to prioritize a quarterback with their first selection.
Before free agency, Hunter seemed like an ideal fit given the team’s multiple roster needs and his versatility as both a cornerback and wide receiver. However, the Giants have since signed Paulson Adebo, whom they view as a shutdown corner, and re-signed Darius Slayton on a three-year, $36 million deal.
With Adebo and Slayton filling the roles Hunter would have occupied, the likelihood of drafting him has diminished. While he remains an option depending on how the draft unfolds and where he ranks on their board, his selection appears less probable than it did earlier in the offseason.
Giants could look to trade WR Jalin Hyatt during draft
When the Giants traded up to select Jalin Hyatt with the 73rd overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, he was expected to eventually replace Darius Slayton. However, after two underwhelming seasons, Hyatt has failed to make an impact, which played a role in the team’s decision to re-sign Slayton.
Bringing Slayton back highlights how much the Giants value him and their dwindling confidence in Hyatt. The team also added Zach Pascal and Lil’Jordan Humphrey, further bolstering the receiver group. With this added depth, Hyatt could become a trade candidate during the draft.
Despite recording just 31 receptions for 435 yards and no touchdowns in two seasons, Hyatt remains one of the NFL’s fastest players. It’s likely that at least one coach believes their system can unlock his potential, making a draft-day trade a real possibility.