New York Giants’ QB Pursuit Could Come at the Expense of Other Key Signings

The New York Giants endured one of the most disappointing offensive seasons in 2024, ranking 31st overall in total offense. This abysmal performance has led to widespread speculation that the team will prioritize acquiring a new quarterback—either through the NFL Draft or free agency. However, an insider has raised concerns that this pursuit may come at the expense of strengthening other areas of the roster that could be just as vital to the team’s success.

The Giants’ Offensive Struggles in 2024

Coming off a playoff appearance in 2022, the Giants had high hopes heading into the 2024 season. However, things quickly unraveled as injuries, poor quarterback play, and a lack of offensive firepower led to a disastrous campaign. Despite efforts to patch up the roster, the Giants finished with one of the worst offenses in the league, ranking 31st in yards per game and near the bottom in scoring.

The quarterback position was a major source of frustration. Daniel Jones, who signed a four-year, $160 million extension in 2023, struggled with injuries and inconsistency. His backup, Tommy DeVito, showed flashes of promise but lacked the experience and reliability needed to guide the team to success. By season’s end, it became clear that the Giants needed a long-term answer at quarterback.

The Giants’ Roster Overhaul: Key Additions on Defense

While much of the focus has been on finding a new quarterback, head coach Brian Daboll and general manager Joe Schoen have been working diligently to revamp the rest of the roster. Over the past few days, the Giants have made significant moves, particularly on the defensive side of the ball:

• Chauncey Gholston (DE): A strong edge rusher who adds depth to the defensive line.
• Roy Robertson-Harris (DE): Brings veteran leadership and a solid presence against the run.
• Paulson Adebo (CB): A young and talented defensive back who can contribute immediately.
• Jevon Holland (S): A versatile safety with playmaking ability in the secondary.
• Chris Board (LB): A solid addition to the linebacker corps with special teams value.

These acquisitions indicate that the Giants are taking a well-rounded approach to improving the team. However, the looming quarterback question remains the biggest storyline.

Retaining Key Offensive Players

In addition to making defensive signings, the Giants have also made moves to keep their offensive core intact. They have extended two crucial players:

• Darius Slayton (WR): One of the team’s most consistent pass-catchers, Slayton provides a reliable deep threat.
• Greg Van Roten (G): A veteran guard who helps solidify the offensive line.

With these moves, the Giants have ensured that all but one offensive starter from last season will return. The only missing piece? The quarterback.

Dan Duggan’s Criticism: Is the QB Search Too Costly?

Dan Duggan of The Athletic has voiced concerns over the Giants’ aggressive pursuit of a new quarterback. He argues that while finding a franchise signal-caller is crucial, the team may be sacrificing other valuable signings in the process.

“There’s no denying the importance of the quarterback position,” Duggan wrote. “But if the Giants devote too many resources—whether it’s cap space, draft picks, or trade capital—to chasing a new quarterback, they could end up weakening other areas that also need improvement.”

Duggan’s argument highlights a crucial dilemma for the Giants: should they go all-in on finding a quarterback, or would a more balanced approach yield better long-term results?

The Giants’ Quarterback Options: Draft vs. Free Agency

The Giants have two primary avenues for finding their next quarterback: the NFL Draft or free agency. Each option comes with its own set of pros and cons.

NFL Draft Prospects

If the Giants decide to draft a quarterback, they will likely have to trade up, as they currently hold the No. 6 overall pick. The top three quarterback prospects—Caleb Williams (USC), Drake Maye (UNC), and Jayden Daniels (LSU)—are expected to be taken within the first few picks.

• Pros of Drafting a QB:
  • A young quarterback on a rookie contract provides financial flexibility.
  • Long-term potential if the player develops correctly.
  • Allows the Giants to build around a fresh face for the franchise.
• Cons of Drafting a QB:
  • The Giants may need to give up valuable draft capital to trade up.
  • Rookies often struggle in their first year, meaning immediate success is unlikely.
  • If they draft the wrong player, it could set the franchise back several years.

Free Agency Options

The 2024 free-agent quarterback class isn’t particularly deep, but there are a few intriguing options:

• Kirk Cousins: A proven veteran who could provide stability, but at a high price.
• Baker Mayfield: Coming off a strong season with the Buccaneers, but questions remain about his long-term viability.
• Gardner Minshew: A serviceable option but likely not a franchise-altering signing.
• Pros of Signing a Free Agent QB:
  • No need to sacrifice draft picks.
  • More immediate experience and leadership.
  • Can serve as a bridge quarterback while developing a younger player.
• Cons of Signing a Free Agent QB:
  • Veteran quarterbacks demand high salaries, limiting cap flexibility.
  • No guarantee of long-term success.
  • Many available quarterbacks have already hit their ceiling.

Striking the Right Balance

The Giants find themselves at a crossroads. Do they go all-in for a franchise quarterback now, potentially sacrificing depth and talent elsewhere? Or do they take a more measured approach, ensuring that the rest of the team is strong before making a QB splash?

What Should the Giants Do?

1. Avoid Overpaying for a QB in Free Agency
   • The Giants should be cautious about spending a massive chunk of their salary cap on a veteran quarterback who may not be the long-term answer.
2. Consider Trading Down in the Draft
   • If the top quarterbacks are out of reach, trading down to acquire more assets might be a smarter move than forcing a selection.
3. Strengthen the Offensive Line and Playmakers
   • Regardless of who plays quarterback, they’ll need better protection and weapons. Investing in top-tier offensive linemen and additional receivers could set the next quarterback up for success.
4. Develop a Young Quarterback Behind a Veteran
   • If they draft a QB, signing a reliable veteran as a bridge starter would provide stability while allowing the rookie to learn.

Final Thoughts: A Crucial Offseason for the Giants

The New York Giants are at a pivotal moment in their franchise’s future. The decision on how to approach their quarterback situation will have lasting implications. While the temptation to go all-in on a QB is understandable, the team must be careful not to neglect other key areas in the process.

Dan Duggan’s concerns are valid—if the Giants focus too much on a quarterback, they could fail to properly rebuild a team that needs improvements across the board. However, without a solid quarterback plan, all other moves could be rendered meaningless.

As the NFL Draft approaches and free agency unfolds, the Giants’ front office must strike a delicate balance: find the right quarterback without sacrificing the overall strength of the team. If they get it right, they could set themselves up for long-term success. If they get it wrong, they may find themselves in another disappointing season, searching for answers yet again.