With the 2025 NFL Draft rapidly approaching, all eyes are on the teams at the top of the draft order. The Titans, Browns, and Giants are all quarterback-hungry, and two generational prospects, Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders, headline the class. Other notable talents include two-way star and Heisman winner Travis Hunter and legendary edge rusher Abdul Carter, each of whom could claim the title of “Best Player Available.” In this breakdown, I’ll address the key question of what the Giants should do in the first round, while also exploring how the entire draft could unfold for Big Blue, all the way through to the seventh round.
Pick #3: Shedeur Sanders, QB – Colorado
Photo Cred: USA Today
While this pick depends on what the Titans and Browns do with their selections, many expert predictions suggest Tennessee will take Cam Ward at #1 and the Browns will select Abdul Carter with the second pick to pair with Myles Garrett. This leaves the Giants with a major decision. Should they take Travis Hunter at #3 and wait until the second round to secure their quarterback, or use their prime position to grab their future franchise leader?
Joe Schoen and Brian Daboll are desperate for the right quarterback to lead their franchise, and Sanders fits the bill. He’s already shown interest in New York, wearing Giants cleats to the Alamo Bowl, and the team has closely scouted him throughout the season. Sanders passed for over 4,100 yards, threw 37 touchdowns to just 10 interceptions, and has a dynamic arm capable of making downfield throws. After learning behind a proven veteran like Aaron Rodgers or Russell Wilson, Sanders could rejuvenate the Giants, who’ve long struggled to find stable quarterback play. With the second-best quarterback in a top-heavy class still available, it’s time for the Giants to take a swing on a talent they haven’t seen at quarterback in years. With a veteran mentor in place, Sanders would be primed to take over and bring the swagger and skill New York fans have been waiting for.
Alternate Options: Trade up for Cam Ward, draft Travis Hunter at #3
Pick #34: Donovan Jackson, OG – Ohio State
The Giants need to address their offensive line woes, and while Greg Van Roten is returning and Evan Neal may shift to right guard, Donovan Jackson would provide a solid boost to the line. At 6’4″ and 320 pounds, Jackson has the strength, mobility, and athleticism to excel on either side of the center. His championship pedigree with Ohio State also makes him a strong fit for the bright lights of New York. Jackson’s versatility is valuable; he filled in at left tackle for the Buckeyes and could do the same for the Giants if needed. This selection shows the Giants are serious about fixing their offensive line and making an immediate impact in the second round.
Alternate Options: Grey Zabel (OT), Tyliek Williams (DT)
Pick #65: Deone Walker, DT – Kentucky
Photo Cred: USA Today
Despite having one of the league’s top nose tackles in Dexter Lawrence, the Giants lack quality depth behind him. Enter Deone Walker, a 6’7″, 331-pound behemoth who will be a nightmare for offensive linemen. While Walker’s technique still needs refinement, his sheer size, strength, and power make him an intriguing prospect. With his off-the-ball quickness and ability to disrupt running backs, Walker can provide insurance behind Lawrence and further strengthen the Giants’ already formidable defensive line, alongside Rakeem Nunez-Roches and Chauncey Golston.
Alternate Options: Darien Porter (CB), T.J. Sanders (DT)
Pick #99: Hollin Pierce, OT – Rutgers
The Giants earned the #99 pick as a compensatory selection after losing Xavier McKinney in free agency. They use it to secure a highly underrated offensive lineman in Hollin Pierce. Standing at 6’8″ and 341 pounds, Pierce is a massive presence on the field. He excels at creating running lanes, pass protection, and handling stunts and blitzes. His size and lateral movement are impressive, though his technique still needs improvement. Nonetheless, Pierce could become a crucial piece to protect the quarterback and complement All-Pro left tackle Andrew Thomas.
Alternate Options: Anthony Belton (OT), Gunnar Helm (TE)
Pick #105: Dorian Strong, CB – Virginia Tech
With the addition of Paulson Adebo and the departure of Adoree Jackson to the Eagles, the Giants are still in need of cornerback depth. Dorian Strong out of Virginia Tech is an intriguing option. Known for his man coverage skills, Strong is also capable in zone coverage and excels at disrupting passing lanes. His ball skills allow him to jump routes and read quarterbacks’ throws effectively. Strong offers the Giants a great opportunity to bolster their secondary and compete for the starting right cornerback spot alongside Adebo and Deonte Banks, helping revitalize the team’s pass defense.
Alternate Options: Cobee Bryant (CB), DJ Giddens (RB)
Pick #154: Kyle Monangai, RB – Rutgers
Photo Cred: USA Today
While the Giants’ running back room is fairly crowded, with breakout star Tyrone Tracy Jr., Devin Singletary, and Eric Gray, adding another solid option like Kyle Monangai could be a late-round steal. Monangai is known for his ability to run through tackles and outrun defenders in space, reminiscent of Isiah Pacheco. He won the Big Ten rushing title with 1,262 yards in 2023 and followed it up with 1,279 yards and 13 touchdowns in 2024. With zero fumbles over 707 touches, Monangai offers both reliability and explosive potential, making him a great value pick in the later rounds.
Alternate Options: Damien Martinez (RB), Tyler Shough (QB)
Pick #219: Luke Lachey, TE – Iowa
The Giants could use another tight end, and Luke Lachey from Iowa fits the bill. While Theo Johnson and Cody Bellinger haven’t been standout performers, Lachey offers a solid mix of blocking and pass-catching ability. At 6’6″ and 253 pounds, he can be a reliable safety valve for Sanders while contributing to the running game. Lachey doesn’t have elite athleticism but brings a wealth of experience and could provide depth at tight end for the Giants.
Alternate Options: LeQuint Allen (RB), Thomas Fidone (TE)
Pick #246: Ja’Corey Brooks, WR – Louisville
With Darius Slayton returning and Malik Nabers on the roster, the Giants still need another playmaker at wide receiver. Ja’Corey Brooks from Louisville could be the answer. Known for his size and playmaking ability, Brooks excels as a deep threat and is versatile enough to line up outside or in the slot. After transferring from Alabama, he had 61 catches for over 1,000 yards and 9 touchdowns in his final season. His big-play ability could be the missing piece in the Giants’ receiving corps, providing a strong option alongside Slayton, Nabers, and Wan’Dale Robinson.
Alternate Options: LaJohntay Wester (WR), Kurtis Rourke (QB)
