A Season of Disappointment and Rebuilding
The 2024 season for the New York Giants was nothing short of a disaster, culminating in a 3-14 record and a painful absence from the playoffs. Perhaps nothing encapsulates the tumultuous year better than the infamous clip of team owner John Mara expressing his concern to general manager Joe Schoen: "I’ll have a tough time sleeping if Saquon goes to Philadelphia." Saquon Barkley, the star running back, indeed made the move to Philadelphia, where he ran for over 2,000 yards, helping the Eagles secure a Super Bowl title. This stark contrast only deepened the frustration of Giants fans, who were forced to watch Barkley’s highlight reel plays from the enemy’s ranks.
The Daniel Jones Debacle and Beyond
Adding to the Giants’ woes was the colossal mistake of signing Daniel Jones to a four-year, $160 million extension before the 2023 season. Jones’s performance was abysmal, leading to his benching after just ten games in the 2024 season and his eventual release. The franchise’s inability to secure a competent quarterback has been a recurring theme, and it now appears that a complete rebuild is inevitable. Despite the grim outlook, there were a few bright spots, most notably rookie wide receiver Malik Nabers, whose impressive performances hinted at a promising future.
Locker Room and Family Engagement Issues
The Giants’ struggles extended beyond the field, as evidenced by their drop from eighth to 20th in the NFLPA report card. Aging facilities, including a lack of hot tub and cold tub space, contributed to the team’s decline. Players also expressed a desire for more engagement with family members, indicating a need for a more holistic approach to player well-being. On the positive side, the team’s strength coaches received high praise, which could be a foundation for the upcoming rebuild.
Key Free Agents and Potential Departures
As the Giants prepare for the offseason, several key players are set to hit free agency. Wide receiver Darius Slayton and linebacker Azeez Ojulari, both of whom were speculated as trade chips this past season, are likely to command significant offers on the open market. Given the team’s need to invest in younger talent, it is unlikely that the Giants will pay a premium to retain these veterans. General manager Joe Schoen has already indicated that the team will bring back QB Tommy DeVito, but Drew Lock is unlikely to return. The team will also need to make decisions on defensive players like CB Adoree’ Jackson and versatile LB/S Isaiah Simmons, who have faced injury issues.
Addressing Key Needs Through Free Agency and the Draft
The Giants face a multitude of holes to fill, with quarterback being the top priority. The team must address their offensive line, which suffered significant injuries to key players like Andrew Thomas, Jon Runyan, and Evan Neal. Wide receiver and cornerback are also critical areas of need, especially with potential free agent departures. With about $45 million in cap room, the Giants are in a position to make significant moves in free agency. However, the third overall pick in the draft offers a golden opportunity to bring in a quarterback of the future. Names like Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward are among the top prospects, each bringing a mix of potential and excitement that the Giants desperately need.
A New Beginning with the Draft
The Giants’ draft strategy will be crucial in shaping their future. With the third pick, they have a chance to select a franchise quarterback, a position where they have experienced significant struggles. Shedeur Sanders, with his family legacy and impressive physical tools, could be a game-changer. His toughness, competitiveness, and arm strength make him a compelling choice, despite the high-risk nature of quarterback selections. Beyond the draft, the Giants will need to focus on building a solid offensive line and strengthening their secondary. The team’s draft picks, including multiple selections in the upper rounds, provide ample opportunities to address these needs and set the foundation for a long-term rebuild.
In summary, the 2024 season was a bitter pill for Giants fans, but the offseason offers a chance for significant change. With a top draft pick, cap space, and a clear need for leadership at the quarterback position, the Giants have the tools to begin a new chapter. The success of this rebuild will depend on smart decision-making and a commitment to both short-term fixes and long-term development.
