The New York Giants are on the hunt for a new franchise quarterback, a search that comes with sky-high expectations and little to no room for error. After an embarrassing 3-14 season that put the spotlight on the team’s shortcomings, the G-Men have the No. 3 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, a decent amount of cap space, and a glaring need for stability at the league’s most important position.
Enter Eli Manning. The two-time Super Bowl MVP and the most iconic quarterback in Giants history is throwing his name into the mix—not as a potential candidate to suit up (eyes emoji), but as a guide to help steer the ship toward a brighter future. Manning, who spent 16 seasons navigating the highs and lows of being a New York quarterback, made it clear he’s ready to lend a hand.
“I like watching film,” Manning said during an event, per The New York Post. “If that’s something I’m wanted for, needed for, [I’d] be happy to look at film and get involved in that part of it.” For a franchise that hasn’t had an answer at quarterback since Manning retired in 2019, this offer couldn’t come at a better time.
Could Eli Manning’s insight be the Giants’ secret weapon?
Manning’s willingness to help isn’t just nostalgia bait—it’s a legitimate opportunity for the Giants to tap into the mind of someone who knows better than anyone what it takes to survive and thrive as a quarterback in New York.
From weathering media storms to shouldering the weight of expectations, Manning navigated it all, and his input could give the Giants an edge as they evaluate a quarterback class led by Shedeur Sanders, Cam Ward, and others.
There’s also Manning’s unique connection to the next wave of signal-callers. Through the Manning Passing Academy, Eli has worked with many of the top prospects, including Texas’ Quinn Ewers and Ole Miss’ Jaxson Dart.
Manning’s personal ties to Dart, a fellow Ole Miss product (duh), make his input especially intriguing: “I like Jaxson Dart,’’ Manning said. “I’ve probably watched him more than anybody, just from watching Ole Miss games. I’ve been around him and [he’s] been a great kid, been in the same offense for three years and been successful. Seen him grow and progress and seems to be able to make all the throws.’’
Manning has spent years sizing up quarterbacks beyond the Xs and Os. His experience with the passing academy gives him more insight any scout or talent evaluator ever could. “Just what kind of person they are,” Manning added. “Kind of more off-the-field stuff than maybe on the field.” The Giants need more than just a talented arm—they need a leader—and Eli's perspective could be invaluable.
The Giants face monumental pressure to get this right, and Manning could be integral in turning things around this year. His expertise in handling the unique challenges of being a quarterback in the bright lights of New York makes him absolutely worth listening to. Letting him weigh in, even informally, could help general manager Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll avoid the mistakes that have plagued this franchise for years.
Ultimately, whoever steps into the role will face the kind of pressure only Manning truly understands.
The Giants need someone who can deliver promise—and fast. Eli might not be in the war room come draft night, but his influence could quietly shape the team’s decision. After all, if anyone knows what it takes to win in New York, it’s No. 10.