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[New York Giants]

What CB Paulson Adebo brings to the New York Giants

Photo by Ryan Kang/Getty Images

Nick Falato goes to the film room

The New York Giants splashed early on the first day of free agency by signing 25-year-old cornerback Paulson Adebo, formally of the New Orleans Saints. Adebo was selected in the third round out of Stanford during the 2021 NFL Draft.

Joe Schoen and the Giants gave the 6-foot-1, 192-pound corner a three-year contract worth $54 million, with $36 million guaranteed ($18 million average annual value). This contract makes Adebo the 13th-highest paid cornerback behind Chicago’s Jaylon Johnson and just in front of San Francisco’s Deommodore Lenior.

Adebo played 3,049 defensive snaps over four seasons in New Orleans. He’s allowed a sub-60% completion rate in each of the last two seasons, almost exclusively playing as the left outside cornerback. Here are Adebo’s testing numbers from the 2021 NFL Scouting Combine:

His elite three-cone drill is unsurprising; Adebo is light on his feet and has controlled and fluid movement skills. He possesses excellent short-area quickness, agility, and overall explosiveness that allows him to leap through the catch point — Adebo is a nuisance in contested catch situations.

He is a man-coverage cornerback with press skills and a sticky nature. Adebo finds himself in phase often, typically living in the hip pockets of receivers. Even when beaten, his acceleration and athletic traits allow him to recover quickly. Adebo also has excellent ball skills; according to Pro Football Focus, he’s intercepted ten passes and defended 29 passes.

The Giants need man coverage skills on the outside. Shane Bowen’s system is quarters based from off-leverage, but most of the plays transpire to man coverage once the routes are declared. There are impressive plays from Adebo, where he displays superb eye discipline and route-awareness in country spot-drop zone.

He’s a good player who upgrades the defense, but his discipline isn’t perfect or technically sound, as you’ll see in the video below. He must also be more secure in run support, ensuring he keeps contain as the force defender.

Overall, the Giants signed a promising young football player at a premium position to a market-value deal for a free agent. New York needed a cornerback to alleviate the burden on their first-round pick from two drafts ago, which isn’t ideal. Still, the Giants found one with upside and whose best football is still ahead of him. I break down his highlights and some of his issues in the video below. Please like, comment, and subscribe to the channel.

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/2025/3/11/24382941/what-cb-paulson-adebo-brings-to-the-new-york-giants

 

[New York Giants]

New York Giants, Pittsburgh Steelers appear to be waiting on Aaron Rodgers

Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images

Where will the future Hall of Famer play in 2025?

The wildly-spinning NFL quarterback carousel has stopped for the moment, with the New York Giants and Pittsburgh Steelers waiting on a decision from future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers.

Geno Smith has moved from Seattle to Las Vegas. Sam Darnold from Minnesota to Seattle. Justin Fields from Pittsburgh to the New York Jets. Daniel Jones from Minnesota to Indianapolis.

A Rodgers decision appears to be next. What will it be?

Will Rodgers choose to stay in New York to try and erase the stain left on his legacy by his failed two-year tenure with the Jets? That might help Brian Daboll keep his job with the Giants. Will he join future Hall of Fame coach Mike Tomlin in Pittsburgh, where the Steelers are perennially a playoff contender?

Ian Rapoport told Pat McAfee that he doesn’t know how this will end.

"I don't know which way Aaron Rodgers is leaning right now..

It's either gonna be the Steelers or Giants..

I imagine this is a real tough decision" ~ @RapSheet #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/KUxVtzMruB

— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) March 11, 2025​

“I’ve gone back and forth on Rodgers ... I don’t know. It’s a really hard choice. I have some thoughts, but I don’t know which way he’s leaning.”

Rapoport’s case for the Giants​

“If it’s the Giants, first of all he doesn’t have to move. Second of all, it’s a team they’ve added in free agency, still got some weapons, they are a team that when they’ve had even decent quarterback play they’ve won ... that’s a pretty intriguing situation.”

Rapoport’s case for the Steelers​

“You have the Steelers, who’ve lost a lot in free agency but it’s still the Steelers. You’ve got that defense, you’ve got the fans, you’ve got the stadium, you’ve got [Mike] Tomlin.

“I can understand why it’s a tough decision.”

What is Rodgers goes to Pittsburgh?​

I will just reiterate something I wrote Tuesday morning:

“Would the Giants pivot to Wilson? Maybe, if they want to spend the kind of money that would require. Would they try to trade for Kirk Cousins? Might they just go the low-cost route and sign someone like Jameis Winston, Carson Wentz or — gulp! — Joe Flacco?

“Honestly, does it really matter? Whether it is Cam Ward, Shedeur Sanders, Jaxson Dart, Tyler Shough or someone else they believe has a chance to be their long-term answer at quarterback what really seems to matter is the young quarterback Schoen and Brian Daboll deem worthy of taking a chance on.”

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/2025/3/...iting-on-aaron-rodgers-nfl-free-agency-rumors

 

[New York Giants]

Giants Day 1 free agency analysis: Monday was a good day, even if it wasn’t sexy

Chauncey Golston | Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images

The Giants plugged some holes, and got a potentially difference-making cornerback

The quarterback question looms over everything for the New York Giants as we enter Day 2 of the NFL free agency negotiating window. GM Joe Schoen and the Giants, though, accomplished quite a bit on Day 1. Even if much of it wasn’t sexy.

My inbox, social media timelines and the comments here at Big Blue View have been filled with shots taken at the embattled GM because of the seemingly small nature of some of Monday’s moves. Everybody loves the splashy signings of the big-name players, but each move made on Monday could potentially help the 2025 Giants. We know not all of the moves will work out, but each makes sense.

Below, thoughts on each player who signed or agreed to terms with the Giants on Monday.

CB Paulson Adebo (three years, $54 million) — I love this signing. Adebo, who turns 26 this summer, is younger than the other top cornerbacks who were available. He is just entering his prime, which should give him a longer runway of success.

Adebo has something the Giants did not have in their secondary a year ago — ball skills. He has seven interceptions and 28 passes defended in 22 games over the past two seasons.

Despite suffering a season-ending injury in Week 7, Paulson Adebo allowed the 3rd-fewest EPA when targeted among all CBs during the 2024 season (-25.6).

Adebo recorded 10 passes defensed in Weeks 1-7, tied for the 3rd-most in the NFL.@Giants | #TogetherBlue https://t.co/djZiv7FJQV pic.twitter.com/8denB4RBiz

— Next Gen Stats (@NextGenStats) March 10, 2025​

Adebo is coming off a broken femur that limited him to just seven games a season ago. That, though, doesn’t look like it’s going to be a problem:

Paulson Adebo broke his femur in October and is already doing this.

The new Giants corner played college ball at Stanford with Bobby Okereke and started 51 of the 52 games he played in with the Saints. pic.twitter.com/zgqsWARZhF

— New York Post Sports (@nypostsports) March 10, 2025​

DT Roy Robertson-Harris (two years, $9M) — I hear all of the ‘this guy is just a depth piece’ comments/complaints. Well, guess what the Giants did not have on their defensive line a year ago? Competent veteran depth players who could take some heat off Dexter Lawrence and Rakeem Nunez-Roches. Robertson-Harris and Giants defensive line coach Andre Patterson were together a UTEP, so the Giants have intel on the player. The Giants still need more help on the interior defensive line, and could find it in the draft.

WR Darius Slayton (three years, $36M) — This one was a stunner. Slayton seemed like he had a foot out the door as far back as the end of the season. It is also an excellent move to bring him back. Had he gone elsewhere, the Giants would have had a WR2 hole to fill. Slayton is also an excellent locker room presence, the kind of core player and veteran leader teams need.

OT James Hudson III (two years, $12M) — If you look up Hudson’s Pro Football Focus grades, you won’t be impressed. He isn’t a great player. Backups generally aren’t. Still, he is something the Giants have not had the past two seasons — a real swing tackle. He has significant NFL playing experience at both tackle spots. Also, at 26 he isn’t a player who is just hanging on at the end of his career. Maybe there is still some upside there.

LB Chris Board (two years, up to $6M) — Board is a special teamer and backup linebacker. This might be an indication that the Giants chose him over retaining Ty Summers and Matthew Adams. Board was a special teams captain in Baltimore last season.

Surprised the Ravens weren't more aggressive in trying to keep Board, who was voted the special teams captain last year. Board played team-leading 386 special teams snaps last year (Harrison was second with 336). Also contributed as reserve ILB, his role increasing as yr went on.

— Jeff Zrebiec (@jeffzrebiec) March 11, 2025​

Edge Chauncey Golston (three years, $19.5M) — Golston is likely the replacement for Azeez Ojulari as the Giants’ third edge defender. It is likely not an accident that the Giants chose Golston. I checked his snaps played by position at Pro Football Focus, and Golston has significant experience at a variety of alignments along the defensive front.

Perhaps most importantly, this seems like a signing targeted to fit what defensive coordinator Shane Bowen likes to do. Golston has played more snaps as a LEO or REO than anywhere else. That is a position Bowen employed heavily with the Tennesee Titans, and the Giants did not have a player who was a natural fit for that role a season ago. Now, they do.

Besides, Golston has the Nick Falato stamp of approval:

2024 Chauncey Golston highlights vs. the pass and run.

The #Giants signed a high-energy, incredibly long (96th percentile wingspan) physical defender with power and some craftiness in his hands.

Coming off a career year, the 27-year-old is a good addition to the DL/EDGE room pic.twitter.com/cQY33u9lbr

— Nick Falato (@nickfalato) March 11, 2025​

What about quarterback?​

That question, of course, looms.

Indications have been that the Pittsburgh Steelers are going to end up with either Aaron Rodgers or Russell Wilson — probably Rodgers. That would take the player who seems to be the Giants’ primary target off the board.

Would the Giants pivot to Wilson? Maybe, if they want to spend the kind of money that would require. Would they try to trade for Kirk Cousins? Might they just go the low-cost route and sign someone like Jameis Winston, Carson Wentz or — gulp! — Joe Flacco?

Honestly, does it really matter? Whether it is Cam Ward, Shedeur Sanders, Jaxson Dart, Tyler Shough or someone else they believe has a chance to be their long-term answer at quarterback what really seems to matter is the young quarterback Schoen and Brian Daboll deem worthy of taking a chance on.

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/2025/3/...s-monday-was-a-good-day-even-if-it-wasnt-sexy

 

[New York Giants]

New York Giants get a third-round comp pick in 2025 NFL Draft

Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images

The loss of Xavier Mckinney, and McKinney’s big 2024 season, net Giants pick No. 99

The New York Giants will receive a third-round compensatory selection, No. 99 overall, in the 2025 NFL Draft.

The NFL announced the official compensatory selections Tuesday evening.

The Giants’ draft picks are now as follows:

Round 1 (No. 3)
Round (No. 34)
Round 3 (No. 65)
Round 3 (No. 99)
Round 4 (No. 105)
Round 5 (No. 154)
Round 7 (No. 219)
Round 7 (No. 246)

The compensatory pick is for the loss of Xavier McKinney in free agency a year ago. The NFL compensatory formula is based on the number of qualifying free agents signed and lost. Per the NFL, salary, playing time and postseason honors all factor into the formula.

The fact that McKinney had a career year, intercepting eight passes and being named first-team All-Pro, probably pushed the compensatory pick higher than it may otherwise have been.

The Giants have been expected to pursue a trade up from No. 3 to No. 1 in the first round of the draft, probably for Miami quarterback Cam Ward. Adding a fourth pick in the top 100 of the draft, along with having pick No. 105, gives GM Joe Schoen more maneuverability to execute a trade.

Here are the players who figured into the compensatory formula for the Giants:

• Lost: Saquon Barkley; Ben Bredeson; Xavier McKinney; A’Shawn Robinson; Tyrod Taylor
• Gained: Jermaine Eluemunor; Drew Lock; Jon Runyan; Devin Singletary

The Baltimore Ravens, Dallas Cowboys and Miami Dolphins were awarded the most compensatory selections, with four each.

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/2025/3/...get-a-third-round-comp-pick-in-2025-nfl-draft

 

[New York Giants]

New York Giants free agency: Jason Pinnock leaving Giants for San Francisco 49ers

Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images

Pinnock bolts New York after sign Jevon Holland

Former New York Giants safety Jason Pinnock is finalizing a one-year deal with the San Francisco 49ers, per Jordan Schultz. Pinnock started the last two seasons for the Giants, playing a total of 1,987 snaps while contributing 473 defensive snaps in his inaugural season as a Giant in 2022.

The 25-year-old took a step back last season and failed to seize the moment opposite rookie Tyler Nubin. Pinnock has a prototype safety body at 6-foot, 205 pounds with long extremities, but the inconsistent location and crucially missed tackles plagued the young player. Pinnock missed 13.4% of his tackles over his three seasons in New York, with 27 missed tackles as a starter.

Through three seasons with New York, Pinnock defended 10 passes and had three interceptions. He also added 211 tackles, 12 for a loss, 28 pressures, and 6.5 sacks.

The 33rd Team dug up this unsavory statistic about Pinnock:

Jason Pinnock Allowed a Passer Rating of 148.3 when targeted last season

That is the worst among all DBs that saw more than 20 Targets in 2024 https://t.co/WVA72tynjS pic.twitter.com/MuGLsDUNAj

— The 33rd Team (@The33rdTeamFB) March 12, 2025​

Although his tenure in New York ended unceremoniously, and he was replaced by Jevon Holland, his landing spot with Robert Saleh with the 49ers is ideal. The Giants initially signed Pinnock off the Jets’ practice squad in 2022; Saleh was the head coach of Gang Green at the time, so the familiarity should assist Pinnock as he competes for snaps at strong safety with Ji’Ayir Brown. Here’s Saleh on losing Pinnock in 2022:

Here's Robert Saleh on new 49ers safety Jason Pinnock back in 2022, when the Jets waived him but wanted him back. Full circle now: pic.twitter.com/jXAGNQZo8a

— David Lombardi (@LombardiHimself) March 12, 2025​

Pinnock still young and possesses upside. The change in scenery should do him well.

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/2025/3/...innock-leaving-giants-for-san-francisco-49ers

 

[New York Giants]

Giants news, 3/12: Jevon Holland signs with Giants, Darius Slayton, Chauncey Golston, more headlines

Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

New York Giants headlines for Wednesday

Good morning New York Giants fans!

From Big Blue View​

• New York Giants free agency: Giants agree to terms with S Jevon Holland
• NFL free agency news - Daniel Jones agrees to terms with the Colts
• What CB Paulson Adebo brings to the New York Giants
• New York Giants free agency: Giants still in the market for a starting guard
• New York Giants free agency: Giants agree to terms with EDGE Chauncey Golston
• Giants Day 1 free agency analysis: Monday was a good day, even if it wasn’t sexy
• New York Giants free agency grades: Day 1 gets mostly good marks
• New York Giants’ QB search: Everything we know about pursuit of a veteran quarterback
• New York Giants free agency tracker: Latest signings, rumors, news, analysis
• 2025 NFL Draft prospect profile - Ashton Gillotte, EDGE, Louisville
• NFL pro days schedule, results tracker 2025: What to know about pre-draft workouts
• New York Giants 2025 free agency | New York Giants 2025 Draft

Other Giant observations​

Giants make the right moves to fix their defense in free agency — up next, quarterback | SNY.tv​

General manager Joe Schoen received said message. Fixing Big Blue’s bruised and battered defense was clearly among the offseason’s top priorities. Free agency was his first chance to see that through. That group isn’t just better – it’s good, at least on paper. Maybe best: They’re young. Bobby Okereke (28) and Rakeem Nunez-Roches (31) are their oldest projected starters. This doesn’t mean the Giants are destined for the playoffs or ready to compete with the Commanders and Eagles in the NFC East, but they’ve taken a step in the right direction on that side of the ball.

From Free Agency Frenzy: The #Giants have had good conversations with Aaron Rodgers and have let him know they believe he and WR Malik Nabers would vibe well. pic.twitter.com/0ss76LLDSZ

— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) March 11, 2025​

Why the Commanders Could Be Close to a Super Bowl | SI.com​

If Aaron Rodgers picks the New York Giants, I’m not sure where Russell Wilson lands. Maybe Pittsburgh swallows hard and brings him back. But other than that? I know the Tennessee Titans don’t have any interest. The Cleveland Browns just traded for Kenny Pickett and, I think, could be waiting to see what happens with Kirk Cousins and the Atlanta Falcons. And I don’t feel like there’d be much for him as a backup out there.

Darius Slayton, Giants reunite: Why WR is a perfect fit next to Malik Nabers | The Athletic​

Slayton’s ability as a field-stretcher is an ideal complement to Nabers’ all-around dominance. Slayton’s 15 yards per catch average is tied for sixth highest in the NFL since he entered the NFL.

Slayton also provides important intangibles to a locker room that has seen an exodus of homegrown talent in recent years. Slayton was a particularly valuable resource for Nabers, often helping the talented rookie line up before the snap.

Chauncey Golston: What to know about new NY Giants defensive lineman | The Record​

It'd be a surprise if Golston played on the edge with Brian Burns and Kayvon Thibodeaux, but his physicality gives defensive coordinator Shane Bowen a chess piece to play next to Dexter Lawrence in pass rush situations. That's not to say Golston can't stand up and play outside, but it will be interesting to see where he fits. He does have the ability to set the edge and provided punch for the Cowboys in their defensive rotations a year ago. Under former defensive coordinator Dan Quinn, Golston played more defensive tackle. While he was not as productive on the stat sheet, by playing in multiple spots his appeal goes beyond the numbers at this point.

Grading 2025 NFL Free-Agency Signings and Trades for Day 2 of Tampering Period | Bleacher Report​

S Jevon Holland, three years, $45 million Grade: A

Big Blue selected Tyler Nubin in the second round of the 2024 draft. He played both safety positions and made a notable impact with his run support. Holland will complement him on the back end with his ability to track the ball. The Giants needed someone like Xavier McKinney, whom they lost in free agency last offseason. Holland can fill that void and immediately help a defense that finished 21st in points allowed and 24th in yards allowed last season.

Around the league​

Defensive tackle Solomon Thomas agrees to terms | Blogging The Boys

Dallas adding ex-Broncos RB Javonte Williams to replace Rico Dowdle, per report | CBSSports.com

Cowboys, KaVontae Turpin finalizing three-year deal | Pro Football Talk

Eagles trading DB C.J. Gardner-Johnson to Texans for OL Kenyon Green | NFL.com

Washington Commanders Free Agency: Saints S Will Harris agrees to 2-year deal | Hogs Haven

Justin Simmons says Eagles, Commanders 'high on the list' in 2025 NFL free agency | CBSSports.com

Vikings beef up trenches with Jonathan Allen, Javon Hargrave additions in free agency | NFL.com

Vikings agree to terms with guard Will Fries on 5-year, $88 million deal: Source | The Athletic

Chargers expected to sign former Steelers RB Najee Harris to one-year deal worth up to $9.25 million | NFL.com

Report: Tyrann Mathieu agrees to reworked deal to stick with Saints in 2025 | Pro Football Talk

Chargers CB Kristian Fulton agrees to 2-year deal with Chiefs | ESPN.com

Chase Young sticks with Saints on 3-year, $51 million deal: Source | The Athletic

Browns expected to land Kirk Cousins if Falcons release QB, per report | CBSSports.com

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Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/2025/3/...hauncey-golston-signings-nfl-free-agency-more

 

[New York Giants]

New York Giants free agency grades: Jevon Holland deal gets an ‘A’

Jevon Holland | Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images

Giants now have a young, talented secondary

The addition of safety Jevon Holland to the New York Giants secondary has drawn an ‘A’ grade from voters in our poll.

Sixty-three percent (1,838) of 2,923 voters graded the move as an ‘A’. Thirty-three percent (963 voters) gave the mark a ‘B’.

The addition of Holland gives the Giants a young, talented starting secondary. Here are the ages of the projected starters:

Holland (25)
CB Paulson Adebo (25)
CB Deonte Banks (24)
CB Dru Phillips (23)
S Tyler Nubin (23)

Cor’Dale Flott, now likely the primary backup both outside and in the slot, will be just 24 this season.

There have been some questions as to why the Giants would spend on Holland (three years, $45.3 million, with $30.3 million guaranteed) when they did not spend big money to keep safety Xavier McKinney from joining the Green Bay Packers a season ago.

The New York Post reported that the Giants made McKinney an offer similar to the one Holland accepted. McKinney said no, and ultimately signed a four-year, $68 million deal with Green Bay.

Here is who some other outlets graded the Holland signing:

CBS Sports

Grade: A

The deal makes Holland one of the league’s highest-paid safeties and gives the Giants a much-needed playmaker in the secondary.

On top of getting a marquee player, the acquisition of Holland generated some much-needed positivity for a team and fan base that is surely in need of some.

Pro Football Focus

Grade: Average

The Giants can now pair Holland with Tyler Nubin, their second-round pick from last year. While Holland didn’t enter free agency on a high note, finishing with a 63.0 overall grade in 2024, he posted elite coverage grades in 2021 and 2023. The Giants are betting on him returning to that form within their young secondary.

Sporting News

Grade: A+

This is a very good value for New York who has missed a different type of safety, Xavier McKinney. Holland is a big upgrade for upfield play at the position vs. run and pass.

The Athletic

Grade: B-

Holland gives the Giants a big safety (6-foot-1, 205 pounds) with playmaking ability. But he’s wildly inconsistent. Some of that might be because he played under three different defensive coordinators in his four NFL seasons. But the Giants are hoping the three-year deal can offer Holland some stability and fuel another leap forward in his development.

33rd Team

Grade: A

It’s clear that the New York Giants wanted to invest heavily in their secondary this offseason, and now they’re coming away with one of the top cornerbacks and safeties on the open market.

Jevon Holland signed a three-year, $45 million deal to head to New York. He’s still just 25 years old and is an immensely valuable safety who can play multiple roles as a reliable tackler and effective coverage playmaker.

Safeties aren’t valued like they used to be, but this is a great fit to pair with Paulson Adebo, along with a young and hungry secondary.

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/2025/3/...ee-agency-grades-jevon-holland-deal-gets-an-a

 

[New York Giants]

Can you guess this former Blue Raider in today’s in-5 trivia game?

Think you can figure out which Giants player we’re talking about? You’ll get five clues to figure him out in our new guessing game!

We’re back for another day of the Big Blue View in-5 daily trivia game. Game instructions are at the bottom if you’re new to the game! Feel free to share your results in the comments and feedback in the Google Form.

Today’s Big Blue View in-5 game​

If you can’t see the game due to Apple News or another service, click this game article.

Previous games​

Tuesday, March 11
Monday, March 10
Sunday, March 9

Play more SB Nation in-5 trivia games​

NFL in-5
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Big Blue View in-5 instructions​

The goal of the game is to guess the correct Giants player with the help of up to five clues. We’ll mix in BOTH ACTIVE AND RETIRED PLAYERS. It won’t be easy to figure it out in one or two guesses, but some of you might be able to nail it.

After you correctly guess the player, you can click “Share Results” to share how you did down in the comments and on social media. We won’t go into other details about the game as we’d like your feedback on it. How it plays, what you think of it, the difficulty level, and anything else you can think of that will help us improve this game. You can provide feedback in the comments of this article, or you can fill out this Google Form.

Enjoy!

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/2025/3/12/24382616/sb-nation-giants-daily-trivia-in-5

 

[New York Giants]

Film study: Why the New York Giants adding Chauncey Golston is smart

Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images

The New York Giants bolstered their edge room by signing Chauncey Golston to a three-year, $19.5-million contract ($6.5-million average annual value). The contract is on par with the Panthers’ D.J. Wonnum and is worth slightly more than Tyree Wilson’s rookie deal (seventh pick in the 2023 NFL Draft).

Golston was selected in the third round (85th overall) of the 2021 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys. The 6-foot-5, 268-pound 27-year-old had his best season under Mike Zimmer last year. He recorded 37 pressures and 5.5 sacks, with five tackles for a loss and passes defended. He also intercepted Jayden Daniels on an excellent effort play – reading a screen – from the backside.

Effort, awareness, and backside pursuit are all elements of Golston’s skill set that must have enticed the New York Giants; those and his unique frame. He’s a large edge, but also has a 96th percentile wingspan and massive 10 ⅞-inch hands:

Golston has sufficient quickness to penetrate, which is maximized by his ability to keep his hips low and use his length. He gains initial contact through his length, and his vice-grip hands allow him to dictate and control the point of attack more easily than most defensive linemen. Golston also flashes good lower-leg drive when moving forward, which allows him to push the pocket and generate pressure through power.

He strings moves together and showcased solid overall hand usage as a pass-rusher, with upside in the twist/stunt game due to good change of direction. He’s not dynamic as a pass-rusher, per se, but his effort and foundation is enough to be a significant contributor in a rotation. It’s also plausible that Andre Patterson can continue his ascension and bring his high floor closer to his ceiling.

Golston is also a sound-run defender who can penetrate and hold the point of attack in most cases against one-on-one matchups. He does, at times, attempt to slide off blocks—which works well on stretch plays—but he’ll attempt to do so when fully engaged, leading to him losing gap integrity, especially against double teams; this isn’t a dire issue with his game but something to acknowledge.

I break down his strengths and weaknesses in the brief video below. Please like, share, and subscribe to the channel.

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/2025/3/...-york-giants-adding-chauncey-golston-is-smart

 

[New York Giants]

New York Giants free agency news: LB Dyontae Johnson tendered

Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

The Giants retain a player who impressed in preseason

The New York Giants are tendering linebacker Dyontae Johnson as an exclusive rights free agent, per a report from Jordan Raanan of ESPN.

The Giants originally signed Johnson as an undrafted free agent out of Toledo following the 2023 NFL Draft. He spent his rookie season on the Giants’ practice squad and was considered a long-shot to make the roster once the calendar turned to 2024.

That, however, quickly changed once the offseason program got going and Johnson thrived in Shane Bowen’s defense. He impressed throughout the spring and summer, enough so that he earned the start in the first preseason game. He was immediately productive and delivered a sack on the second play of the game.

Unfortunately, he suffered an ankle injury in the third quarter and was ultimately placed on injured reserve. The Giants finally activated him late in December — Christmas Eve, to be precise.

This is a low-cost move that will provide depth through the offseason program, and give Johnson the chance to pick up where he left off in 2024.

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/2025/3/...-free-agency-news-lb-dyontae-johnson-tendered

 

[New York Giants]

New York Giants free agency: We’re all on Aaron Rodgers time as we await his decision

Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

The quarterback carousel has ground to a halt waiting for Rodgers to make his choice

The NFL world — at least the parts of it connected to the New York Giants, Pittsburgh Steelers and Minnesota Vikings — continues to wait for the always marching to the beat of his own drummer Aaron Rodgers to decide which team he will play quarterback for in 2025.

Jordan Ranaan of ESPN said earlier on Wednesday that “a decision is expected today.”

Then again, maybe not.

NFL insider Ian Rapoport indicated Wednesday morning that a decision by Rodgers may not be imminent.

“I know a lot of people think it’s going to be today for Aaron Rodgers. Might not be,” Rapoport said. “He’s on his own time ... I’m sure he just wants to make the best decision he can. He has been slow, he has been methodical, he has not been rushed at all ... Rodgers will make a decision when he makes a decision.”

Rapoport did add that “it does seem like money will not be an issue.” Which, of course, means money will be an issue. Because money is always an issue.

Updating where things stand with Joey Bosa, Russell Wilson and Aaron Rodgers, with @RapSheet. pic.twitter.com/U7wOb1CCpR

— Judy Battista (@judybattista) March 12, 2025​

James Palmer thinks the Giants’ work in free agency has made them more appealing for Rodgers.

The Giants have narrowed the gap in the race to land Aaron Rodgers.@JamesPalmerTV explains how they've done it and the player who is left dangling in the wind as a result. pic.twitter.com/VqlhQMe4T3

— Underdog NFL (@Underdog__NFL) March 11, 2025​

If Rodgers chooses Pittsburgh the Giants could pivot to Russell Wilson. The New York Post indicates they might consider Joe Flacco, a player GM Joe Schoen mentioned last year on ‘Hard Knocks’. They could move down the list to Jameis Winston, Carson Wentz or another available veteran quarterback.

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/2025/3/...n-aaron-rodgers-time-as-we-await-his-decision

 

[New York Giants]

NFL pro days schedule, results tracker 2025: What to know about pre-draft workouts

Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images

The NFL Scouting Combine is over, but the pre-draft process is continuing

The NFL Scouting Combine is a distant memory, and we are already on to the Pro Day circuit. A smattering of Pro Days (Ball State, Miami of Ohio, Indiana) have already been held. The rest of the Pro Day schedule.

We will update with information about which Pro Days the New York Giants are attending, results and other news as appropriate.

WHAT TO WATCH: Top prospects who did not work out at the Combine like quarterback Cam Ward of Miami, quarterback Shedeur Sanders and wide receiver/cornerback Travis Hunter of Colorado and edge defender Abdul Carter of Penn State, should work out at their Pro Days.

HOW TO WATCH: Some of the major Pro Days will be shown on NFL Network.

March 5​

• Purdue

The Giants will be in attendance at this one. The player to watch is offensive tackle Marcus Mbow, a potential Day 2 pick. [Prospect profile]

Every NFL team but Pittsburgh will be at Purdue’s pro day on Wednesday. https://t.co/HwRkbbxKm0

— Tom Dienhart (@TomDienhart1) March 4, 2025​

March 6​

• Illinois State

March 7​

• East Texas A&M
• Washington State

March 10​

• Austin Peay
• Eastern Kentucky
• Georgia Southern
• Washington
• Western Michigan

March 11​

• Central Michigan
• Kentucky
• Oklahoma
• Tennessee

March 12​

• Georgia

All 32 teams will be represented today in Athens for UGA pro day. I am also expecting Atlanta Falcons HC Raheem Morris in attendance.

— Rusty Mansell (@RustyMansell_) March 12, 2025​

• Wyoming

March 13​

• Buffalo
• Clemson

March 14​

• Delaware
• Georgia Tech

March 17​

• Arkansas
• UCLA
• Syracuse

Big 12 Pro Day (March 18-21, Exact dates TBD)​

• Arizona
• Arizona State
• Baylor
• BYU
• Cincinnati
• Colorado
• Houston
• Iowa State
• Kansas
• Kansas State
• Oklahoma State
• TCU
• Texas Tech
• UCF
• Utah
• West Virginia

March 18​

• Northwestern
• Oregon
• South Carolina
• Wofford

March 19​

• Alabama
• Alabama A&M
• Idaho State
• Kent State
• Minnesota

March 20​

• California
• Middle Tennessee

March 21​

• Michigan
• Missouri
• Youngstown State

March 24​

• Bowling Green
• Miami (FL)
• Stony Brook UTSA

March 25​

• Dartmouth
• East Carolina
• Nebraska
• Rice
• UConn

March 26​

• Boise State
• LSU
• Ohio State
• South Dakota State
• Texas
• USF

March 27​

• Army
• Holy Cross
• Merrimack
• Morgan State
• North Dakota State
• Texas A&M
• Villanova

March 28​

• Maine
• Penn State

March 31​

• Sacramento State

April 1​

• Albany

April 3​

• Montana

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/2025/3/...-what-to-know-how-to-watch-pre-draft-workouts

 

[New York Giants]

2025 NFL Draft prospect profile - Quinn Ewers, QB, Texas

Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Will the Giants take a swing on Ewers?

The New York Giants need to come up with a long-term answer at quarterback. The current belief is that they’ll be signing a veteran to start immediately, then draft a young passer to be their quarterback of the future.

Most expect the Giants to pick their quarterback in the first round, perhaps even trading up to ensure they get their guy. But could they save their high picks and take a swing at a quarterback in the later rounds?

Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers was widely considered one of the top quarterbacks in his recruiting class, with some services putting him ahead of 2024 first overall pick Caleb Williams. Ewers never realized the upside in college which had him regarded so highly, but could the Giants develop him?

Prospect: Quinn Ewers (3)
Games Watched: vs. Georgia (2024), vs. Clemson (2024), vs. Georgia (2024 SEC Championship), vs. Ohio State (2025)
Red Flags: Oblique (2024), Ankle (2024)

Measurables​

Kent Lee Platte | RAS.football

Strengths​

Best traits

• Arm elasticity
• Accuracy
• Competitive toughness

Ewers has a solid set of physical and athletic traits to play quarterback at the NFL level.

Ewers’ size, arm strength, and athleticism are all adequate for an NFL quarterback. Though none of them are truly elite traits, they should all fall within teams’ thresholds and not limit him at the next level. He has enough arm strength to access the intermediate to deep part of the field and challenge tight coverages in the short area of the field. Ewers also has solid arm elasticity, which allows him to attempt throws from unconventional arm slots as well as off-platform.

He has adequate athleticism to flow behind the line of scrimmage, as well as pick up yardage with his legs if the play breaks down and the defense turns their back on him.

Competitive toughness is the defining trait of Ewers’ game. He suffered a torn oblique muscle early in the season, and also suffered a sprained ankle later on. While Ewers missed time (two games) in the middle of the season, he returned and played through his recovery. He’s also willing to hold the ball until the last instant if necessary, as well as challenge tight coverages to give his receivers a chance to make the play.

Weaknesses​

Worst traits

• Precision
• Decision making
• Pocket presence

Ewers’ greatest weaknesses as a quarterback come down to his processing and decision making.

Ewers flashes the ability to navigate progression reads, but there’s too much evidence of him getting hung up on reads or staring receivers down. Not only does that slow down his process, but his lack of eye discipline can lead defenders to the ball. At the same time, he can be a “see it, throw it” quarterback who holds the ball until he sees his receiver running open.

He also shows a lack of pocket presence. There are instances in which he’s oblivious to pressure, holding the ball too long, or letting his eyes drop if he has to move in the pocket or move off his first read. Ewers’ tendency to hold the ball and be oblivious to pressure has led to a concerning tendency to take unnecessary sacks. He has a high sack rate and his pressure-to-sack rate (23.2 percent) is above the 20 percent threshold that has historically been a red flag.

Ewers had a concerning tendency to miss defenders dropping in coverage or throw into coverage. At the same time, while he was a generally accurate quarterback, he isn’t a precise one. There were too many instances where he forced receivers to adjust to poorly placed passes or alter their routes to track down inaccurate passes.

Game Tape​

(Ewers is the Texas quarterback wearing number 3)

Projection​

Ewers’ projection is a complicated one. It wasn’t long ago that he was considered one of the top one or two quarterback recruits in the country and top prospects in this draft class. However, not only did he not take the expected step in 2024, he regressed in some aspects of his game.

Of course, it’s possible that his injuries held him back this year, though his precision, interception rate, and sack rate were more stagnant than anything else.

The safest projection for Ewers is as a reserve quarterback, though it’s possible that he could develop with coaching in the right situation. He was once considered a top QB recruit, generally ranked first or second in his recruiting class. There will be at least one team who will want to see if they can unlock the potential that had him considered one of the very best high school players in the country.

Does he fit the Giants?
No

Final Word: A Day 3 value

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/2025/3/...-profile-quinn-ewers-qb-texas-scouting-report

 

[New York Giants]

New York Giants free agency: Russell Wilson to visit Giants, after Cleveland Browns

Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Could the Giants really get into a bidding war with Cleveland for Russell Wilson?

The New York Giants have competition for one of their primary quarterback targets.

Adam Schefter of ESPN is reporting that Russell Wilson will visit the Cleveland Browns on Thursday. He’ll then fly to New York on Thursday night for a Friday meeting with the Giants.

Sources: Free-agent QB Russell Wilson is scheduled to fly tonight to Cleveland to visit with the Browns on Thursday, before being scheduled to fly to New York on Thursday night to visit Friday with the Giants. pic.twitter.com/5mKkcqV4ja

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 12, 2025​

It’s an interesting development, as the Browns also recently traded for Kenny Pickett.

There has been some smoke recently that the Browns could be targeting a quarterback at the top of the draft. Their interest in Wilson could indicate that they don’t believe that their target would be available. That could indicate that they believe either the Tennessee Titans are taking their favorite quarterback prospect, or that a team like the Giants is likely to jump them.

The fact that Wilson also has a visit scheduled with the Giants on Friday suggests a couple things as well. On one hand, they might not be expecting Aaron Rodgers’ decision any time soon and are going about their business. On the other hand, it could suggest that the Giants believe that Rodgers is leaning toward Pittsburgh and want to be ready to pivot as soon as possible.

We’ll keep an eye on the situation as it develops.

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/2025/3/...son-to-visit-cleveland-browns-new-york-giants

 

[New York Giants]

New York Giants free agency: WR/KR Ihmir Smith-Marsette returning to Giants

Photo by Kyle Ross/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Explosive returner stays with New York after a successful 2024 season

The New York Giants have announced they are bringing back wide receiver and kick returner Ihmir Smith-Marsette on a one-year deal. Smith-Marsette made a name for himself in 2024 with his dynamic special teams play, highlighted by a 100-yard kickoff return touchdown in the Giants’ Week 17 win over the Indianapolis Colts.

Smith-Marsette, was a bright spot in an otherwise abysmal 2024 season. His 4.42 speed and ability to create explosive plays make him a valuable asse.

Originally a fifth-round pick out of Iowa by the Minnesota Vikings in the 2021 NFL Draft, Smith-Marsette has bounced around the league, spending time with five different teams before finding a home in New York. In 42 career games, he has recorded 14 receptions for 182 yards and two touchdowns, while also adding nine carries for 73 yards and another score.

With the Giants’ wide receiver depth chart still taking shape, Smith-Marsette now rejoins a group that currently includes Malik Nabers, Wan’Dale Robinson, Darius Slayton, and Jalin Hyatt. By re-signing Smith-Marsette, the Giants retain a key playmaker on special teams at the returner position, something they have struggled to find for years. Expect New York to probably be done in free agency in the receiver market after resigning Slayton and Smith-Marsette.

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/2025/3/...r-kr-ihmir-smith-marsette-returning-to-giants

 

[New York Giants]

New York Giants free agency: Giants continue to add offensive line depth

Stone Forsythe | Photo by Brooke Sutton/Getty Images

Giants add second offensive tackle in free agency

The New York Giants continued on Wednesday to add experienced offensive tackle, agreeing to terms with four-year veteran Stone Forsythe. AMDG Sports, Forsythe’s agency, announced the deal.

Forsythe, 6-foot-8, 307 pounds, was a sixth-round draft pick by the Seattle Seahawks in 2021. He played in 53 games with 14 starts over four seasons with Seattle. In 2024, he started five games and played 413 snaps at right tackle.

Forsythe, 27, also has experience at left tackle. For his career with the Seahawks, he played 925 snaps at right tackle and 215 at left tackle.

The Giants also signed swing tackle James Hudson III this week as they continue to try to fortify their offensive line depth.

It is a bit curious that the Giants would add another swing tackle. Perhaps this signals that Evan Neal will be moved inside. Perhaps even that Jermaine Eluemunor could be moved to right guard if the Giants can’t find a better alternative, with Forsythe and Hudson competing for the right tackle role.

Whatever the reason, it seems the Giants are determined not to be caught without a proper swing tackle should injuries strike again in 2025.

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/2025/3/...g-giants-continue-to-add-offensive-line-depth

 

[New York Giants]

New York Giants free agency: Guard Greg Van Roten returns to New York

Greg Van Roten | Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images

Giants’ starting 2024 offensive line is back together

The New York Giants perused the free agent guard market during the first few days of NFL free agency, and decided to go right back where they started from to fill the right guard spot.

Greg Van Roten, who started 17 games for the Giants in 2024, is reportedly finalizing a deal to return to the Giants for a second season.

The 35-year-old Van Roten signed with the Giants last August and spent most of the season starting at right guard. He filled in at center for an injured John Michael Schmitz at the end of the season.

A Rockville Center native, Van Roten gets to continue his career more or less playing at home.

After entering the league as an undrafted free agent in 2012, Van Roten did not earn a full-time starting job until 2018 as a member of the Carolina Panthers.

Van Roten has started every game the past two seasons, in 2023 for the Las Vegas Raiders and last season for the Giants. He played more than 1,000 snaps in each season. The only other time he played that many snaps was that 2018 season.

With the return of Van Roten, the offensive line that began the 2024 season for the Giants is back intact. That line is:

Andrew Thomas (LT), Jon Runyan Jr. (LG), John Michael Schmitz (C), Van Roten (RG), Jermaine Eluemunor (RT).

The line played well until injuries forced shuffling and exposed inadequate depth. It is still possible, of course, that the Giants add a younger starting right guard. Van Roten would make excellent interior line depth if that ends up being the case.

The Giants have added a pair of tackles, James Hudson III and Stone Forsythe, for depth. It also seems likely they will add to the line in the 2025 NFL Draft.

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/2025/3/...ency-guard-greg-van-roten-returns-to-new-york

 

[New York Giants]

Giants news, 3/13: Russell Wilson visit set, Ihmir Smith-Marsette, Stone Forsythe, more headlines

Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

New York Giants headlines for Thursday

Good morning New York Giants fans!

From Big Blue View​

• New York Giants free agency: We’re all on Aaron Rodgers time as we await his decision
• New York Giants free agency: Russell Wilson to visit Giants, after Cleveland Browns
• New York Giants free agency: WR/KR Ihmir Smith-Marsette returning to Giants
• New York Giants free agency: Giants continue to add offensive line depth
• New York Giants free agency news: LB Dyontae Johnson tendered
• New York Giants free agency grades: Jevon Holland deal gets an ‘A’
• Film study: Why the New York Giants adding Chauncey Golston is smart
• New York Giants free agency: Jason Pinnock leaving Giants for San Francisco 49ers
• New York Giants get a third-round comp pick in 2025 NFL Draft
• New York Giants free agency tracker: Latest signings, rumors, news, analysis
• New York Giants’ QB search: Everything we know about pursuit of a veteran quarterback
• NFL pro days schedule, results tracker 2025: What to know about pre-draft workouts
• New York Giants 2025 free agency | New York Giants 2025 Draft

Other Giant observations​

Giants running out of options while they’re stuck in quarterback holding pattern | New York Post​

If the Giants miss out on Rodgers and Wilson, a player who might interest them is Joe Flacco. The 40-year-old played decently last season for the Colts, going 2-4 in six starts with 12 touchdown passes, seven interceptions and a passer rating of 90.5.

Good first two days for the Football Giants​

Through two days of free agency, here are our updated grades ⤵ pic.twitter.com/GaDHPMUsnd

— PFSN (@PFN365) March 12, 2025​

NFL free agency: The 6 best bargains of 2025 legal tampering period | For the Win​

Jevon Holland, who signed for less in 2025 than Xavier McKinney the year before, is a chameleon on the back end, closing quickly to take big throws off the board – a number backed by his -11.4 completion percentage over expected (CPOE) in 2024 – a top-four mark among safeties. While that comes with a bit more boom/bust tendencies than you’d like (especially for a player who went without an interception last season), it’s still a significant upgrade for a team with a dire need.

And, again, it’s an inexpensive one. Holland can add support in both phases of the defense and has All-Pro upside but his $15.1 million annual average salary ranks only eighth among NFL safeties.

Who might Giants sign if they miss out on Aaron Rodgers? Their options are bleak | NJ.com​

According to Pro Football Focus, the best available free agent QBs are Russell Wilson (the 45th ranked free agent), Jameis Winston (84th), and Mason Rudolph (169th) as well as Joe Flacco and Mac Jones. None of these exactly scream “franchise savior.”

Chris Russo closes door on Giants taking Shedeur Sanders with No. 3 overall pick of 2025 NFL Draft | Sportskeeda​

“I don’t think Sanders is the option for the Giants. I really don’t. Now, this is just me—I have no idea,” said Russo. “ I’m just throwing it out there, Stevie. I don’t think that’s going to happen. I think the Giants right now are in a very different situation—they’re in a rut. But I don’t think Sanders will be in New York at the end of the draft.”

The picks that Joe Schoen will have at his disposal next month​

Our full 2025 NFL Draft order ⤵ pic.twitter.com/AR6TFAvYK3

— New York Giants (@Giants) March 11, 2025​

How ‘Hard Knocks’ fallout scared rest of NFL from following in Giants’ bumbling footsteps | New York Post​

Where is the heartfelt “thank you’’ from the other 31 teams in the NFL? Where is the appreciation for what the Giants undertook that saved the rest of the league from all the scrutiny and subsequent grief?

How about a “way to go’’ to Joe Schoen from all the other general managers for being the first — and, as for now, last — executive to bare his soul to the world and open a window into the inner-workings of an NFL offseason?

Baldy seal of approval​

.@Giants @AdeboPaulson_ is a great signing by the G-Men. Loves to lock up wide recievers in M2M. Welcome to BigBlue #BaldysBreakdowns pic.twitter.com/tHvP5JFL4P

— Brian Baldinger (@BaldyNFL) March 12, 2025​

Around the league​

Dallas Cowboys lose DeMarcus Lawrence to Seahawks in free agency | Blogging The Boys

Cowboys acquire former Bills first-round CB Kaiir Elam, swap 2025 picks in trade | The Athletic

Cowboys finalizing trade with Titans for LB Kenneth Murray | Pro Football Talk

With Tunsil trade, Commanders trying to maximize Super Bowl window | ESPN.com

Marcus Mariota back to Washington Commanders on 1-year deal | Hogs Haven

Steelers, Darius Slay strike a deal, finally | Pro Football Talk

Colts' Anthony Richardson, Daniel Jones have tons at stake | ESPN.com

Broncos signing two-time Pro Bowl tight end Evan Engram to two-year, $23 million deal | NFL.com

Source - Titans add guard Kevin Zeitler to revamped O-line | ESPN.com

Jets to make Aaron Rodgers a post-June 1 cut on Wednesday | Pro Football Talk

Rams release All-Pro WR Cooper Kupp after failing to find trade partner | NFL.com

Josh Allen didn't want new deal to 'kill' Bills' salary cap | ESPN.com

BBV mailbag​

Have a Giants-related question? E-mail it to [email protected] and it might be featured in our weekly mailbag.

BBV YouTube​

You can find and subscribe to Big Blue View YouTube from the show’s home page

BBV on X: Follow @BigBlueView | Ed Valentine: @Valentine_Ed | Threads: @ed.valentine | Bluesky: @edvalentine

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Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/2025/3/...-smith-marsette-stone-forsythe-more-headlines

 

[New York Giants]

Your daily Giants trivia game, Thursday edition

Think you can figure out which Giants player we’re talking about? You’ll get five clues to figure him out in our new guessing game!

We’re back for another day of the Big Blue View in-5 daily trivia game. Game instructions are at the bottom if you’re new to the game! Feel free to share your results in the comments and feedback in the Google Form.

Today’s Big Blue View in-5 game​

If you can’t see the game due to Apple News or another service, click this game article.

Previous games​

Wednesday, March 12, 2025
Tuesday, March 11, 2025
Monday, March 10, 2025

Play more SB Nation in-5 trivia games​

NFL in-5
MLB in-5
MMA in-5

Big Blue View in-5 instructions​

The goal of the game is to guess the correct Giants player with the help of up to five clues. We’ll mix in BOTH ACTIVE AND RETIRED PLAYERS. It won’t be easy to figure it out in one or two guesses, but some of you might be able to nail it.

After you correctly guess the player, you can click “Share Results” to share how you did down in the comments and on social media. We won’t go into other details about the game as we’d like your feedback on it. How it plays, what you think of it, the difficulty level, and anything else you can think of that will help us improve this game. You can provide feedback in the comments of this article, or you can fill out this Google Form.

Enjoy!

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/2025/3/13/24384756/sb-nation-giants-daily-trivia-in-5

 

[New York Giants]

Can Jevon Holland make Giants fans forget Xavier McKinney?

Photo by David Rosenblum/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Let’s go to the film and see what we can learn

The New York Giants have signed former Miami Dolphins’ safety Jevon Holland to a three-year, $45.3 million contract with $30.3 million guaranteed to fortify Shane Bowen’s secondary, opposite promising second-year safety, Tyler Nubin.

The Giants now have Nubin (23) and Holland (25) at safety with Tae Banks (24), Paulson Adebo (25), and Dru Phillips (23) as the starting corners in nickel. Cor’Dale Flott (23) is the third outside cornerback with one year left on his deal. New York has quietly assembled a promising youthful secondary to complement the pass-rushing trio of Dexter Lawrence, Brian Burns, and Kayvon Thibodeaux.

Holland was a team captain for the Miami Dolphins and played for three different defensive coordinators. He spent arguably his worst season in Anthony Weaver’s defense in 2024 and one year with Vic Fangio in 2023. Prior to Fangio, his first two seasons were with Josh Boyer.

I would contend his two seasons with Boyer were his best two as a professional. He was tasked with multiple assignments in every system, but Boyer had him as the middle-of-the-field closed safety more than the two-high structures of Fangio and Weaver.

Holland possesses the athletic traits to execute any assignment of a safety. Man coverage, deep half, single-high, quarters-read, buzz/robber, and he frequently assumed man responsibilities from depth. His plate was full and he did not disappoint, albeit his 2024 was a down year; he missed 17.1% of his tackles (12 total) and failed to haul in an interception for the first time in his career.

He has 16 career passes defended and six interceptions to go with his nine and ten passes defended from his two seasons at Oregon.

The Holland contract immediately caused debate among Giants’ fans, since Xavier McKinney’s contract had an average annual value of $16.75 million over four years, and Holland’s was $15.1 over three million. McKinney expressed some discontent on X after the Holland signing was announced:

“You thought last season was impressive ... okay bet watch this , you ain’t seen s*** yet.”

Confusion is understandable. Why would the Giants give Holland – a lesser player than McKinney – a contract that’s close in average annual value? Perhaps Joe Schoen acknowledged his mistake? Maybe Bowen needs a quality veteran to start on the backend? Or, perhaps, several small instances – and one major ATV accident – rubbed Giants’ brass the wrong way and they decided McKinney was expendable at that price. I’m not insinuating that’s the case, but it’s safe to say safety value is NOW important to Schoen, and we shouldn’t forget he spent a top-50 pick on it last season.

McKinney is a sensational player coming off an eight-interception season and a First-Team All-Pro bid. Holland is not that player. Still, Holland is 25 years old, has extensive experience handling many assignments, and is a significant upgrade over Jason Pinnock.

As you’ll see in the video below, Holland is not a perfect player. His technique — specifically tackling — suffered in 2024 and his play strength is only average, which is disappointing for a player with his frame. However, he’s a good football player who will allow Bowen to run any concept imaginable on the back end. Please enjoy the breakdown below and like, comment, and subscribe!

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/2025/3/...e-new-york-giants-fans-forget-xavier-mckinney