The 2025 NFL Draft is right around the corner, and the New York Giants have a handful of questions to address. They could draft a quarterback at No. 3 overall or two-way superstar Travis Hunter. But amid all the discourse about what player the organization should select, Big Blue's rookie class last year is often overlooked.
Joe Schoen redeemed himself for the first two drafts he completed as general manager with last year's class. Headlined by superstar wideout Malik Nabers, NY's rookies were quietly one of the best groups in the NFL. According to a Pro Football Focus article by Bradley Locker, the Giants had the third-most productive rookie class in 2024.
The New York Giants rookies were outstanding in 2024
Of the six rookies NY drafted, five played key roles in 2024. Leading the charge was Nabers, who made an immediate impact at wide receiver. Despite missing two games and catching passes from what felt like a rotation of practice squad quarterbacks, Nabers racked up 1,204 receiving yards. Now he has future Hall of Famer Russell Wilson throwing him the ball, which should be a huge upgrade even if Wilson is on the back nine of his career.
Andru Phillips also made his presence felt in year one. The third-round cornerback finished with a 77.5 PFF grade, ranking ninth among all qualifying corners. It is a terrific sign that Phillips already looks like a reliable piece in the secondary. He and Deonte Banks will have more opportunities to shine after the G-Men signed Paulson Adebo.
Then there is Tyrone Tracy Jr., who quietly became the Giants' top running back as the season went on. His ability to catch passes out of the backfield and run with power helped him leapfrog Devin Singletary on the depth chart. Fans quickly fell in love with his playstyle, and he looks like a legitimate weapon moving forward with a solid 69.9 PFF rushing grade.
With a promising young core in place, the Giants are in a much better spot than they were a year ago. They still have work to do, but there is real hope that this team is building something sustainable.
So while everyone is debating who should be taken at No. 3 and ensuing rounds, it is important to remember that NY already has a foundation of young talent. It is a refreshing change of pace after so many years of bad draft misses — and that is something every Giants fan can appreciate.