New York Giants Face Crucial Offseason Decisions

The New York Giants enter the 2025 offseason with several critical decisions to make. After a disappointing 2024 campaign, team owner John Mara has opted to retain head coach Brian Daboll and general manager Joe Schoen, but their futures remain uncertain. With a glaring need for a new quarterback and key roster reinforcements, the Giants must navigate free agency and the upcoming NFL Draft wisely.

Giants Secure a Third-Round Compensatory Pick

One silver lining for the Giants heading into the draft is the acquisition of a compensatory pick in the third round. According to Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team, New York will receive the 99th overall selection in the 2025 NFL Draft. This compensatory pick is the result of losing star safety Xavier McKinney to the Green Bay Packers in free agency last offseason.

McKinney flourished in his first year with the Packers, earning first-team All-Pro honors. He racked up 88 total tackles, one sack, one fumble recovery, and an impressive eight interceptions during the 2024 season. His stellar performance underscored the impact of his departure from New York’s defense.

How the NFL’s Compensatory Pick System Works

The NFL’s compensatory pick formula remains somewhat of a mystery to those outside league offices. However, the basic premise revolves around teams being rewarded for losing high-value free agents without adequately replacing them. In the Giants’ case, they did not spend enough in the previous free agency period to offset McKinney’s departure, thereby earning them an extra draft selection.

Additionally, the league awards compensatory picks to teams that lose minority coaches or front office executives who are hired for head coaching or general manager positions elsewhere. This year, the San Francisco 49ers, Los Angeles Rams, and Detroit Lions will all receive third-round picks under this provision.

Did the Giants Make the Right Call on McKinney?

While losing McKinney was a tough blow, the Giants appear to have made a calculated decision by allowing him to walk. Given their salary cap situation and pressing roster needs, committing significant resources to retain him might not have been the wisest move.

Instead, the Giants turned to free agency in 2025 to fill the void left in their secondary.

Giants Replace McKinney with Dolphins Star Jevon Holland

To address the safety position, New York signed former Miami Dolphins standout Jevon Holland to a lucrative three-year, $45.3 million contract. Holland, a four-year starter in Miami, made an immediate impact in his rookie season and continued to be a key contributor. He recorded 69 total tackles, 2.5 sacks, and two interceptions in his first professional season, showcasing his versatility and playmaking ability.

Reports suggest the Dolphins simply could not afford to retain Holland due to salary cap constraints. Holland himself claimed that Miami began phasing him out of their defense late in the 2024 season once it became apparent he would not be returning in 2025. Regardless of Miami’s rationale, New York stands to benefit from acquiring a young and talented safety to anchor their defense.

Holland will team up with 2024 rookie Tyler Nubin to form the Giants’ new safety tandem. The duo offers a promising blend of youth, athleticism, and high football IQ.

Further Secondary Upgrades with Paulson Adebo Signing

In addition to Holland, the Giants bolstered their secondary by signing cornerback Paulson Adebo to a three-year, $54 million contract. Adebo, previously with the New Orleans Saints, has developed into a reliable defender capable of covering top receivers. His arrival strengthens a Giants defense that struggled with consistency in the passing game last season.

With these defensive additions, New York has taken significant steps toward solidifying its secondary. Now, their attention must turn to the offense.

What’s Next for the Giants?

Despite their defensive upgrades, the Giants’ most pressing need remains at quarterback. With Daniel Jones failing to meet expectations and the team seeking a long-term solution, the 2025 NFL Draft could be their best opportunity to find a franchise signal-caller.

Beyond the quarterback position, New York must also address the offensive line, which struggled mightily in 2024. Improving pass protection and run blocking will be critical for whoever takes the helm under center next season.

The Giants have set themselves up with strategic roster moves, but much work remains. The upcoming draft and the remainder of free agency will determine whether this team can turn the corner and return to playoff contention in 2025.

For now, all eyes remain on Brian Daboll and Joe Schoen as they navigate this pivotal offseason.