The New York Giants’ 2024 season was a disaster, plain and simple. A 3-14 record capped off a campaign riddled with underperformance and inconsistency. The offense was lifeless for most of the year, failing to generate momentum, while the defense couldn’t stop anyone from exploiting key weaknesses.
There are bright spots, though, including a promising 2024 rookie class that saw several players earn praise as foundational pieces. But time is running out for GM Joe Schoen and Head Coach Brian Daboll. The pressure to fix the salary cap, solidify the roster, and address gaping holes at key positions has never been greater.
This offseason might be the most crucial in years. With limited resources and rising expectations, the Giants have to hit on free agency and the draft to avoid falling further into irrelevance. Landing the right free agents could finally give Schoen and Daboll the tools to pull this team out of its rut and back into contention.
5. Kansas City Chiefs: Justin Reid, S
The New York Giants' secondary faced significant challenges in the 2024 season, particularly after the loss of safety Xavier McKinney. The team struggled to find a consistent replacement, leading to vulnerabilities in pass coverage and overall defensive performance. Rookie Tyler Nubin showed promise, leading the team in defensive snaps, but the lack of experienced depth was evident.
Justin Reid, currently with the Chiefs, could be an ideal addition to address this gap. At 27, Reid brings a blend of experience and athleticism, having been a consistent starter throughout his career. In the 2024 season, he recorded 61 solo tackles, 2 interceptions, and 9 passes defended. His leadership and versatility would provide the Giants with a stabilizing presence in the secondary, allowing younger players like Nubin to develop alongside a proven veteran.
4. Philadelphia Eagles: Mekhi Becton, OG
The Giants' offensive line woes were a glaring issue in 2024, contributing to their dismal 3-14 record. Injuries, including Andrew Thomas' season-ending Lisfranc injury in Week 6, and underwhelming performances left the unit in shambles.
Mekhi Becton, now a guard for the Eagles, could be a perfect solution. A natural tackle, Becton shifted to guard and thrived in Philadelphia, starting every game for a potential NFC Championship-bound team.
His ability to play multiple positions would bring versatility and reliability to the Giants' injury-prone line. More importantly, Becton’s experience in high-pressure environments could bring a winning edge to a unit desperate for stability.
3. Kansas City Chiefs: Trey Smith, OG
The Giants' 3-14 season was a harsh reminder that football games are won—or lost—in the trenches. The offense consistently faltered behind an overmatched and inconsistent line, leading to ineffective quarterback play and a stifled run game. If the Giants want to get back to contention, upgrading the interior line isn’t just a priority—it’s a necessity.
That’s where Trey Smith comes in. The Chiefs' standout right guard is a physical, technically sound presence who excels in run blocking and holds his own against top-tier pass rushers. Smith’s ability to dominate in the trenches would bring much-needed stability to the Giants' line, while his winning experience with a perennial contender could inject a culture of accountability into a team desperate for change.
2. Detroit Lions: Carlton Davis III
Big Blue's secondary faced significant challenges in 2024, particularly with the regression of cornerback Deonte Banks. After a promising rookie season, Banks struggled in his second year, allowing a quarterback rating of 124.2 when targeted, a steep decline from 79.6 the previous year. His issues with effort and consistency led to benchings and public criticism. These struggles underscored the need for veteran leadership in the defensive backfield.
Stealing Carlton Davis III from the Lions could address this void. Despite suffering a fractured jaw in Week 15, Davis was playing very well. His experience and skill set would not only bolster the Giants' pass defense but also provide mentorship to both Banks and rookie sensation Dru Phillips. Davis's presence could foster a culture of accountability and development, helping young talents refine their skills and adapt to the professional level.
1. Philadelphia Eagles: Milton Williams, DT
Known for his exceptional athleticism and versatility, Williams has demonstrated the ability to play both inside and on the edge, making him a valuable asset for any defensive scheme. His agility and quickness off the snap allow him to disrupt offensive lines effectively, traits that would complement the dominant presence of Dexter Lawrence on the Giants' interior.
Pairing him with Lawrence could create a formidable interior duo, increasing the defense's ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks and improve overall defensive performance. Moreover, Williams' experience with the Eagles' successful defense brings a winning mentality and valuable playoff experience to a Giants team looking to bolster its defensive line prowess.