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NFL Announces 35 Compensatory Draft Choices to 16 Clubs

Photo Ced: USA Today

For the 2025​ NFL Draft round-by-round order, click here.

NEW YORK — March 14, 2025 — A total of 35 compensatory draft selections in the 2025 NFL Draft have been awarded to 16 teams, the NFL announced today. Under the rules for compensatory draft selections, a team losing more or better compensatory free agents (“CFA”) than it acquires in the previous year is eligible to receive compensatory draft picks.The compensatory picks will be positioned within the third through seventh rounds based on the value of the compensatory free agents lost.Compensatory free agents are determined by a formula based on salary, playing time and postseason honors. The formula was developed by the NFL Management Council. Not every free agent lost or signed by a club is covered by this formula. Clubs that suffer a net loss of CFAs during the prior free agent signing period are eligible to receive a corresponding number of compensatory selections. In addition, a club that lost the same number of CFAs that it gained (no net loss), may be eligible to receive a selection at the end of round seven based on the value of the CFAs lost versus the value of the CFAs gained. No club may receive more than four compensatory picks in any one year. If a club qualifies for more than four compensatory picks after offsetting each CFA lost by each CFA gained of an equal or higher value, the four highest remaining selections will be awarded to the club. In addition to the 32 compensatory selections awarded under the net loss formula, a special compensatory selection was awarded to the San Francisco 49ers, the Los Angeles Rams and the Detroit Lions under a 2020 amendment to the League’s Collective Bargaining Agreement, which was agreed upon by the NFL and the NFLPA to promote equal employment opportunities and an inclusive workforce within NFL clubs. This initiative provides that the prior employer-club of a minority employee who has been hired by another club as its head coach or primary football executive (general manager) will receive compensation in the form of a special compensatory draft selection in the third round of each of the next two drafts, or in each of the next three drafts if two minority employees from the employer-club are hired for these positions by another club or clubs. Special compensatory selections are awarded in draft selection order after all other compensatory selections in round three and are denoted with an asterisk in the following table. The following 2025 compensatory draft picks have been awarded for the 2025 NFL Draft, which will be held on April 24-April 26 in Green Bay:The compensatory free agents lost and gained in 2024 by the clubs that will receive compensatory picks in the 2025 Draft:* Reacquired via trade2025 NFL COMPENSATORY DRAFT PICKS*

Round Round Choice/
Overall Selection
Team
3 33-97 Minnesota
3 34-98 Miami
3 35-99 New York Giants
3 36-100* San Francisco
3 37-101* Los Angeles Rams
3 38-102* Detroit
     
4 33-135 Miami
4 34-136 Baltimore
4 35-137 Seattle
4 36-138 San Francisco
     
5 33-169 Buffalo
5 34-170 Dallas
5 35-171 Dallas
5 36-172 Seattle
5 37-173 Buffalo
5 38-174 Dallas
5 39-175 Seattle
5 40-176 Baltimore
     
6 33-209 Los Angeles Chargers
6 34-210 Baltimore
6 35-211 Dallas
6 36-212 Baltimore
6 37-213 Las Vegas
6 38-214 Los Angeles Chargers
6 39-215 Las Vegas
6 40-216 Cleveland
   
7 33-249 San Francisco
7 34-250 Green Bay
7 35-251 Kansas City
7 36-252 San Francisco
7 37-253 Miami
7 38-254 New Orleans
7 39-255 Cleveland
7 40-256 Los Angeles Chargers
7 41-257 Kansas City
*Special Compensatory Selection
BALTIMORE Lost: Jadeveon Clowney; Ronald Darby; Devin Duvernay; Gus Edwards;
Patrick Queen; John Simpson; Geno Stone; Kevin Zeitler
  Gained: Derrick Henry
     
BUFFALO Lost: Gabe Davis; Tyrel Dodson; Leonard Floyd; Dane Jackson; Tim Settle
  Gained: Mack Hollins; Austin Johnson; Curtis Samuel
     
CLEVELAND Lost: Harrison Bryant; Jordan Elliott; Joe Flacco; Sione Takitaki
  Gained: Jordan Hicks; Quinton Jefferson
     
DALLAS Lost: Dorance Armstrong; Tyler Biadasz; Dante Fowler; Tony Pollard; Tyron Smith
  Gained:  
     
GREEN BAY Lost: Yosuah Nijman; Jon Runyan; Darnell Savage
  Gained: Josh Jacobs; Xavier McKinney
     
KANSAS CITY Lost: Nick Allegretti; Willie Gay; Tommy Townsend
  Gained: Marquise Brown
     
LAS VEGAS Lost: Jermaine Eluemunor; Austin Hooper; Josh Jacobs; Bilal Nichols; Amik Robertson
  Gained: Harrison Bryant; Gardner Minshew; Christian Wilkins
     
L.A. CHARGERS Lost: Michael Davis; Austin Ekeler; Gerald Everett; Austin Johnson; Kenneth Murray
  Gained: Gus Edwards; Kristian Fulton
     
MIAMI Lost: Raekwon Davis; DeShon Elliott; Robert Hunt; Brandon Jones; Andrew Van Ginkel; Christian Wilkins
  Gained: Aaron Brewer; Jordyn Brooks; Kendall Fuller
     
MINNESOTA Lost: Kirk Cousins; Danielle Hunter; Marcus Davenport; Jordan Hicks; K.J. Osborn;
D.J. Wonnum
  Gained: Blake Cashman; Sam Darnold; Jonathan Greenard; Shaquill Griffin;
Andrew Van Ginkel
     
NEW ORLEANS Lost: Zack Baun; Malcolm Roach; Isaac Yiadom
  Gained: Willie Gay; Chase Young
     
N.Y. GIANTS Lost: Saquon Barkley; Ben Bredeson; Xavier McKinney; A’Shawn Robinson; Tyrod Taylor
  Gained: Jermaine Eluemunor; Drew Lock; Jon Runyan; Devin Singletary
     
SEATTLE Lost: Jordyn Brooks; Evan Brown; Damien Lewis; Drew Lock; Colby Parkinson;
Bobby Wagner
  Gained: Pharaoh Brown; Tyrel Dodson; George Fant
     
SAN FRANCISCO Lost: Sam Darnold; Clelin Ferrell; Sebastian Joseph-Day; Javon Kinlaw;
Ray-Ray McCloud; Charlie Woerner; Chase Young
  Gained: Elliott Jordan; Yetur Gross-Matos; Leonard Floyd; Isaac Yiadom
Baltimore 4
Dallas 4
Los Angeles Chargers 3
Miami 3
San Francisco 3
Seattle

Oakland’s Hope for an MCHC Title Dashed by the Dutchmen

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Photo Cred: Oakland University

The Oakland Golden Grizzlies came up just short of reaching the finals last night in Grand Rapids, suffering a heart-wrenching 3-2 overtime loss to Hope in a thrilling contest that left fans on the edge of their seats. The game was a fast-paced, high-intensity defensive battle, with both teams playing tight, physical hockey. The first period saw no goals, as both teams played excellent defense, preventing many good scoring chances.

However, late in the period, Hope’s Nolan Holtrop found a crack in the Oakland defense, firing a shorthanded goal past the Golden Grizzlies’ goaltender to put the Dutchmen on the board first. Oakland answered in the second period, when Austin Fertik showed off his skill and vision, weaving through Hope’s defense to get to the net and score the equalizer. But just as the Golden Grizzlies seemed to gain momentum, Hope quickly retook the lead. Casen Faustyn tipped a shot past the Oakland goaltender, giving the Dutchmen a 2-1 advantage.

Oakland Improves to 4-0 after Weekend Sweep of Miami University | Oakland  University Golden Grizzlies DIII Hockey

Photo Cred: Oakland University

The third period, however, was where the drama truly unfolded. Jake McCatty of Oakland tied the game at 2 with a well-executed shot, but the play was marred by controversy. Hope fans were left fuming over a possible high stick on the play, though the goal stood. The tension only heightened from there as Hope appeared to have scored the go-ahead goal minutes later, but it was immediately waived off due to goaltender interference.

The Golden Grizzlies’ defense and goaltender were able to keep Hope at bay, forcing the game into the final minutes of regulation. With time winding down, Oakland had a golden opportunity to seal the win. Connor Crawford had an open lane to score, but his shot rang off the crossbar, leaving the game tied and sending it into overtime.

Once overtime began, both teams struggled to break the deadlock. The intensity remained high, but neither side could find a way through the opposing defense, forcing the game into a nerve-wracking 3-on-3 situation. Unfortunately for Oakland, penalties by Brandon Danou and Reiss Williams handed Hope a power play advantage. With the Dutchmen now on the power play, Cade Pratt seized the opportunity and delivered a perfect shot to the top corner of the net, clinching the victory for Hope and sending them to the finals.

Oakland University Golden Grizzlies DIII Hockey

Photo Cred: Oakland University

While Oakland’s season ended in heartbreak, they will still have the chance to make an impact in the postseason as they have secured a spot in the ACHA National Tournament. Despite the painful loss, the Golden Grizzlies have proven themselves to be a resilient and competitive team, and they will look to carry that momentum into the upcoming tournament.

Part One: Syracuse Basketball A Season of Struggles

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Photo Cred: nunes magician.

Syracuse (14-19, 7-13) suffered a crushing 73-53 loss to SMU (23-9, 13-7) in the second round of the ACC tournament. Coming into the game as the 14th seed, the Orange hoped to continue their surprising run and pull off another upset. They had just managed a hard-fought 66-62 win over Florida State the previous day, and the team was determined to carry that momentum into their next game. But as has been the case for much of the season, things quickly unraveled for Syracuse in the second half.

SMU 73-53 Syracuse (Mar 12, 2025) Final Score - ESPN

Photo Cred: ESPN

While any loss in a tournament setting is frustrating, this particular defeat was hardly a shock, considering the way the season had unfolded for SU. A season marred by inconsistency, missed opportunities, and disappointing performances ended in a fittingly lackluster manner. This year’s collapse marked one of the worst seasons in Syracuse basketball history, and the team faces serious challenges that must be addressed in order to rebuild and restore the program to its former glory. Without significant changes, the road to success for Syracuse remains a long and uncertain one.

Despite the team’s struggles, it has been confirmed that head coach Adrian Autry will return for another season at the helm. However, it’s fair to say that Autry is under intense scrutiny and likely on the hot seat heading into next year. This season has highlighted several of his shortcomings as a coach, leaving many to question whether he is the right person to lead the program back to prominence. This has led to significant inconsistency on the court, as players have struggled to find their rhythm and contribute in meaningful ways.

Offensively, Syracuse has been painfully one-dimensional. Too often, the team has relied on isolation plays or Lampkin post-ups with little variation or creativity. The offense has become predictable, and opposing defenses have learned to exploit this lack of creativity. There has been little offensive flow, and players have appeared out of sync, with no real system in place to create easy scoring opportunities. On the defensive end, things have been equally problematic. Syracuse has struggled mightily, ranking second-to-last in the ACC in points allowed.

Clemson basketball vs SMU start time today: Channel, time, streaming info

Photo Cred: Grennville Online

Perhaps the most concerning aspect of this season has been Autry’s failure to get the team to come together as a cohesive unit. With a roster full of talent, the inability to connect and play as a team has been frustrating for fans and players alike. There have been flashes of potential, but they have been too few and far between to make any lasting impact. For Syracuse to have any chance of rebounding and returning to relevance next season, Adrian Autry will need to step up in a significant way.

Defensively, Autry will need to find a way to improve the team’s overall defense, both in terms of discipline and strategy. The Orange can’t continue to give up points at the rate they have been and expect to compete in the ACC. The future of Syracuse basketball hinges on these improvements. Autry faces a pivotal year ahead, and the pressure will be squarely on his shoulders to deliver results. The next season will be crucial for both Autry’s tenure and the future of the program as a whole.

New York Giants Offseason Analysis: Part Three

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Photo Cred: USA Today

The Giants made a wise move by re-signing one of their captains and veteran long-snapper Casey Krieter, but a crucial decision now looms at the kicker position. Graham Gano, who has been a reliable contributor in recent seasons, has struggled with injuries and is approaching the twilight of his career, turning 38 in April. Given his age and recent injury issues, Big Blue may look to invest in a younger, more reliable option at kicker moving forward. Additionally, punter Jamie Gillan is set to become a free agent, which means New York will likely be in the market for both a new punter and a kicker.

New York Giants rework Graham Gano's contract, clear 2022 cap space

Photo Cred: USA Today

The team will probably look to address these positions in the later stages of free agency or during the later rounds of the upcoming draft. Beyond special teams, the most pressing issue for the Giants remains the quarterback position. While this remains the team’s biggest question mark, the plan to sign a veteran like Aaron Rodgers or Russell Wilson while simultaneously drafting a top prospect, such as Cam Ward or Shedeur Sanders, seems to be an ideal solution.  This strategy would allow the Giants to remain competitive in the short term, giving them a proven veteran to lead the offense, while still building for long-term success with a promising young quarterback. In addition to quarterback, the Giants’ struggling secondary is another area that demands attention.

To strengthen the defense, the Giants have set their sights on Jets star cornerback D.J. Reed, who is their top target to improve the back end of the defense. The secondary has had its moments but has been inconsistent, and Reed would be a significant upgrade alongside Adoree’ Jackson. A move like this would further solidify a defense that has largely held its own despite the offense’s shortcomings. Meanwhile, the offensive line is another area that requires an upgrade, particularly at right guard.

Adoree' Jackson was Giants' highest-graded player in Week 15 loss to Ravens

Photo Cred: USA Today

Replacing Greg Van Roten with a more reliable option would go a long way in ensuring the offensive line can provide adequate protection for whichever quarterback steps under center. To clear room for these key free-agent acquisitions, the Giants will likely need to make moves to free up cap space. Potential cuts of players like Rakeem Nunez-Roches and Graham Gano could help with this, as well as restructuring the contracts of several other players. This financial flexibility will be critical in allowing the Giants to make the necessary upgrades across the roster.

With general manager Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll under pressure to deliver significant results, this offseason will be one of the most pivotal in the franchise’s history. The decisions made over the coming months will shape the team’s direction, and with the right moves, the Giants could emerge from this offseason stronger and more competitive both in the short and long term. This blueprint offers a clear path to success, navigating a challenging offseason while keeping one eye on the future.

Memphis Spence’s All-American Picks are In!

Photo Cred: USA Today

Memphis Spence votes are in! The prestigious title of Men’s All-Americans are awarded to some of the brightest stars in college basketball. Leading the way is Cooper Flagg from Duke. He’s likely the player of the year and the first pick in the upcoming NBA Draft. Outside of Flagg there were numerous others who had outstanding seasons!

Duke's Cooper Flagg sets freshman record with 42-point performance

Photo Cred: USA Today

Here are the top 5 men’s basketball players who received All-America votes for this season:

Men’s All-America 1: Cooper Flagg – Duke

The standout freshman from Duke, Cooper Flagg, has earned widespread recognition for his exceptional play on both ends of the court. With a combination of elite defense, scoring ability, and leadership, Flagg has proven to be one of the most versatile and exciting players in college basketball this season.

Men’s All-America 2: Mark Sears – Alabama

Mark Sears has been an anchor for Alabama, providing a steady hand with his scoring and playmaking abilities. His all-around game has played a crucial role in the Crimson Tide’s success, helping him secure a spot on the All-America 2 team.

Men’s All-America 3: Tre Johnson – Texas

Another exceptional talent, Tre Johnson of Texas, earned his place on the Men’s All-America 3 team. Known for his scoring prowess and ability to take over games, Johnson’s dynamic play has been instrumental in the Longhorns’ strong season.

Men’s All-America 4: PJ Haggerty – Memphis

PJ Haggerty’s performance this season has made him a standout for Memphis. With his scoring consistency and clutch performances, Haggerty has played a significant role in the Tigers’ success, and his placement on the Men’s All-America 4 team is well-deserved.

Men’s All-America 5: Eric Dixon – Villanova

Eric Dixon has been the heart and soul of Villanova’s squad. As one of the most skilled forwards in the nation, Dixon’s inside presence and scoring ability have helped him secure a spot on the All-America 5 team.

Cleveland Cavaliers Are First Team to Clinch Playoff Spot

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The Cleveland Cavaliers have been one of the biggest surprises of the NBA season and, without a doubt, have emerged as one of the best teams in the league. Currently holding the best record in the NBA, the Cavaliers boast a 7.5-game lead over the defending champion Boston Celtics for the number one seed in the East. While the Oklahoma City Thunder are right behind them in the West, Cleveland’s dominance has been impressive. They also possess the top-rated offense in the entire league.

Cleveland Cavaliers' perfect start: Where it ranks among NBA best

Photo Cred: USA Today

This past week, the Cavaliers became the first and only team to clinch a playoff spot, ensuring they avoid the play-in tournament. They achieved this feat in just 62 games, a stark turnaround from their performance last season. Already surpassing their 2023-24 win total of 48, the Cavs currently sit at 53-10 with 19 games remaining. The most remarkable part is that this is the same roster as last year, with only one major change—head coach Kenny Atkinson replacing JB Bickerstaff. Atkinson has unlocked numerous aspects of the Cavs’ roster, leading to their stunning success.

While Bickerstaff instilled a strong defensive foundation, last season, the team often relied heavily on Donovan Mitchell to carry the offensive load. This year, Mitchell is playing fewer minutes and scoring less than last season, but the team is winning more games. The Cavaliers have had three separate double-digit winning streaks this season, largely due to Darius Garland returning to All-Star form. Evan Mobley has also taken significant strides in improving his offensive game, including developing a consistent three-point shot—making him even more difficult for defenses to handle. He is also in the running for Defensive Player of the Year.

NBA midseason grades: Cavaliers, Rockets, Thunder acing season

Photo Cred: USA Today

The Cavs’ bench has been another critical factor in their success, with Ty Jerome and others contributing significantly. Despite already playing some of the best basketball in the league, the Cavaliers made a key trade at the deadline that has already paid dividends. The addition of De’Andre Hunter, a tall three-and-D wing, has provided the Cavs with an essential piece they had been missing. Hunter, a front-runner for Sixth Man of the Year, has made an immediate impact, and since his arrival, the Cavaliers have won 11 straight games.

With 19 games left in the regular season, the Cavaliers are focused on maintaining their momentum heading into the playoffs. Their magic number to secure the number one seed in the East is 12. Although the Celtics will likely be their primary playoff competition, the Cavaliers have proven they can compete with them, splitting their season series 2-2. The Cleveland Cavaliers have truly turned a corner this season, and they are poised to make a deep playoff run.

Will the Cincinnati Bengals Sign Tee Higgins?

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Photo Cred: USA Today

The Cincinnati Bengals have plenty of contract issues to work through this offseason.
They have franchised tagged wide receiver Tee Higgins for the second year in a row as
they have not come to an agreement on a long-term contract. This was announced by
Higgins through a tweet by simply posting “tag”. Last month he also tweeted that he
would be the first to let people know about his status with the Bengals.

NFL free agency predictions: Where will the top 10 free agents land?

Photo Cred: USA Today

Higgins would receive $26.2 million if they do not come to an agreement on an extension by July 15th. Higgins is not the only big-name player with contract issues as the Bengals still have wide receiver Jamar Chase and defensive end Trey Hendrickson who are only under contract for one more season. Three players who are wanting to be paid and have job security for the foreseeable future.

Quarterback Joe Burrow has been vocal about wanting the team to pay these guys to keep the team together.  He has also said that he is willing to restructure his 5-year $275
million dollar contract to free up money for the Bengals to spend on other players. When
he signed the contract $219 million of it was guaranteed. The Bengals could move
money around in his contract by pushing it back to later in his contract.

Changing some of the money owed to Burrow into a signing bonus, or Burrow could just take less money in general. This core of Burrow, Chase, Higgins, and Hendricks led this team to the Super Bowl in 2021 until ultimately falling to the Los Angeles Rams. They lost in the AFC Championship in 2022 but have gone on to miss the playoffs the last two seasons because of injuries and inconsistent defensive play.

Tee Higgins contract: Bengals franchise-tagged WR gets no extension.

Photo Cred: USA Today

Despite starting their 2024 campaign 4-8 they went on to finish the year 9-8 and just
missing the playoffs. They competed with some of the league’s best teams as well by
losing to the Chiefs 26-25, Commanders 38-33, and losing to division rival Baltimore
twice by a combined four points. Bengals fans feel they have a team that can win, but
that is done by keeping these core players together for the foreseeable future.

New York Giants Offseason Analysis: Part Two

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Photo Cred: USA Today

Upgrading at the Skill Positions

Aaron Rodgers signing with the Giants could be intriguing for several reasons, particularly if it includes adding star receiver Davante Adams alongside him. Rodgers and Adams were long-time teammates with the Packers. After Adams was traded midseason to the Jets to reunite with Rodgers, the possibility of Adams following Rodgers to New York’s other football team becomes increasingly likely.

While there is no guarantee, the prospect of Rodgers throwing to both Adams and Jaxon Smith-Njigba (before eventually handing the offense over to a young quarterback like Cam Ward) is an exciting one. Another top option for the Giants is receiver Cooper Kupp, who could be on the trade block after Puka Nacua emerged as the Rams’ primary receiver. As for longtime Giants receiver Darius Slayton, he’s hoping to join a contender in the later stages of his career, which likely means leaving New York behind.

Jets' Aaron Rodgers to his doubters - 'Watch what I do' - ESPN

Photo Cred: NBC News

At running back, Tyrone Tracy had a breakout rookie season. With Devin Singletary and Eric Gray under contract behind him, the team is likely set with their stable of backs for the foreseeable future. If the Giants decide against drafting a quarterback, defensive end Abdul Carter and two-way star Travis Hunter could be among the top prospects available. Both would add much-needed talent to a Giants roster that’s looking for a spark.

Defense

On the defensive side of the ball, Dexter Lawrence, Rakeem Nunez-Roches, and Elijah Chatman anchor the defensive line. However, Nunez-Roches could be a cap casualty, and the Giants may look to the draft for a potential replacement. Kayvon Thibodeaux and Brian Burns are expected to lead the linebacking corps, with Micah McFadden also expected to return.  Defensive captain Bobby Okereke, however, could be a surprise cut candidate after failing to make the same impact this past season under Shane Bowen’s defensive scheme.

NFL 2024 : Five defensive players poised to breakout this season | Goal.com  US

Photo Cred: Goal.com

The Giants’ most significant potential addition on defense may come in the secondary. While the safety positions are well-covered with Tyler Nubin and Jason Pinnock, the Giants lack a true shutdown corner. With Deonte Banks struggling at the position, D.J. Reed of the Jets could be the ideal candidate to start alongside Adoree’ Jackson. New York might be willing to offer up to $72 million for Reed or another high-caliber cornerback. Other options include Carlton Davis of the Lions and Charvarius Ward of the Niners, but neither possesses Reed’s skill set, making him the Giants’ primary target.

Eagles Part Ways with Pro Bowl Cornerback Darius Slay

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After winning a Super Bowl, an organization has time to celebrate, but they also need to quickly start planning for the next season. Now, almost a month after the Eagles’ Super Bowl victory, they face the unfortunate reality of the NFL offseason—letting players leave via free agency or releasing them. In this case, the Eagles will be parting ways with Pro Bowl cornerback Darius Slay and fellow corner James Bradberry.

Darius Slay's new deal is really a 2-year, $24.5M contract extension

Photo Cred: USA Today

Slay has spent the last five seasons with the Eagles, while Bradberry joined the team in 2022. Both players played key roles in the Eagles’ defense, which was the top-ranked unit in the NFL this past year. Despite their success, both are nearing the end of their careers. Slay is 34 years old, and Bradberry is 31. Both will be post-June 1st releases, which will help alleviate some of the team’s salary cap issues.

Releasing Slay will save the Eagles $4.3 million, and cutting Bradberry will save them $2.1 million. This cap space is crucial for the Eagles as they head into free agency and attempt to retain key players.  Linebackers Zach Baun, Josh Sweat, and offensive guard Mekhi Becton—ranging in age from 25 to 28—are all hitting free agency.

Eagles DC Vic Fangio compares CB Darius Slay to fine Italian red wine

Photo Cred: USA Today

They were integral to the Eagles’ success, helping the team finish with the league’s top defense and one of the NFL’s best offensive lines, which opened holes for Saquon Barkley to rush for over 2,000 yards this season. The decision to release two veteran cornerbacks also makes sense given the Eagles’ investments in the future. Last year, they drafted two cornerbacks—Cooper Dejean and Quinyon Mitchell—with their first two picks.

Both players had standout rookie seasons, with Dejean even picking off a pass from Patrick Mahomes and returning it for a touchdown in the Super Bowl. It’s sad to see great players like Darius Slay and James Bradberry leave a team that they helped elevate to two Super Bowls, winning one of them. However, this is an unfortunate part of the business of sports. Teams must often replace older, more expensive players with younger, cheaper talent. Fortunately for the Eagles, it seems they’ve already found excellent replacements.

Giants Offseason Analysis: Part One

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Photo Cred: USA Today

A Pivotal Offseason for the New York Giants

With a crucial offseason ahead, the New York Giants face numerous decisions that will shape the future of the franchise. After moving on from Daniel Jones as the starting quarterback, general manager Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll are tasked with quickly turning the team around while also building for the future. While young stars like receiver Malik Nabers, running back Tyrone Tracy Jr., defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, and left tackle Andrew Thomas provide a solid foundation, the most pressing concern remains the quarterback position and addressing key holes across the roster. Here’s what the Giants can do this offseason to improve their play on the field in 2025.

Will the Giants bench Daniel Jones? New York sticking with QB

Photo Cred: USA Today

The Big Quarterback Question

Despite the challenges, the Giants find themselves in a favorable position with the #3 pick in the upcoming draft. Rumors are swirling that New York plans to trade up for the #1 pick, likely targeting quarterback Cam Ward, though they’ve also expressed interest in Shedeur Sanders. The most probable outcome is the Giants trading up for Ward while pursuing a veteran quarterback in free agency to bridge the gap, allowing Ward to sit behind him and develop before taking the reins in a season or two.

One major rumor making waves is Aaron Rodgers. The Giants are currently the betting favorites to sign him, seemingly out of nowhere, after the Jets decided to part ways with the future Hall of Famer following a couple of turbulent years. Other potential free-agent options include Sam Darnold, Justin Fields, and Russell Wilson, all of whom could become available after strong 2024 seasons.

A Rodgers-Ward pairing, or a combination of a seasoned veteran and rookie presence, would be ideal for the Giants. Rodgers could help make the team competitive right away, while Ward, who threw for over 4,000 yards, 39 touchdowns, and just seven interceptions in 2024, is the quarterback of the future. Ward’s ability to throw on the run, deep ball accuracy, and proficiency in making all the required throws at the next level makes him the perfect candidate to lead the Giants out of their current struggles.

Strengthening the Offensive Line

New York Giants 2024 Position Unit Review: Offensive Line

Photo Cred: USA Today

The offensive line has been a persistent issue for the Giants, repeatedly hindering both their quarterbacks and the overall offensive production. With star left tackle Andrew Thomas suffering a season-ending injury, the line’s struggles only worsened. In 2025, Thomas’ health will be crucial for the offense’s success. The Giants experimented with ten different offensive line combinations in 2024, and none yielded consistent results.

Alongside Thomas, the team will return left guard Jon Runyan and right tackle Jermaine Elumenour, both of whom were additions in free agency last year. Recent draft pick John Michael Schmitz will also return as the starting center. However, right guard Greg Van Roten, who started much of the season at right guard before switching to center, is set to become a free agent, creating a hole at that position. Evan Neal, who has struggled at right tackle, might be a candidate to move to guard, but the Giants could also look to the free-agent market or the draft to address the position.

The key to success for the Giants will be assembling an offensive line that works cohesively, without significant weaknesses. This is critical to ensuring that the offense can operate efficiently and avoid the derailment that has plagued the team in recent seasons. Both the Giants’ coaching staff and fanbase know all too well how damaging a porous offensive line can be. Addressing the quarterback situation and fortifying the offensive line are the two most pressing areas, but with the right moves, the team can position itself for success in 2025 and beyond.