Key Position Battles Expected
The upcoming New York Giants training camp is anticipated to feature several competitive position battles. While some positions, such as quarterback and linebacker, appear settled, various players are expected to compete for starting roles, potentially leading to more lively camp battles than in recent seasons.
One notable competition is at cornerback. Free agent acquisition Greg Newsome II, a 2021 first-round pick, is vying for a starting spot against 2023 first-round pick Deonte Banks. Newsome began the spring as the starter, but Banks has reportedly adapted well to the new scheme and coaching, earning more first-team snaps during OTAs and minicamp. Additionally, 2026 second-round pick Colton Hood is also in contention and could challenge both players.
The defensive line also presents significant competition, with the team needing to find three new starters following the departures of Dexter Lawrence and Rakeem Nunez-Roches. Veteran nose tackle D.J. Reader is expected to fill one of these roles. The spots next to him are contested, with 2025 third-round pick Darius Alexander and veteran Shelby Harris considered to have an inside track. Sam Roberts, one of the team’s first free agent signings, has not yet been seen this offseason, and Bobby Jamison-Travis is another player who could make an impact.
The wide receiver position is also in flux, with the team needing to replace Wan’Dale Robinson and manage the period until Malik Nabers returns. The team’s 90-man roster includes 14 receivers, featuring a mix of young players like Malachi Fields and Calvin Austin III, alongside veteran players such as Odell Beckham Jr. and Ju-Ju Smith-Schuster. Other veterans like Darius Slayton, Darnell Mooney, and Isaiah Hodgins are also looking to establish their value. The team’s priority is to build around Jaxson Dart, and how the receiver room is constructed will be a key focus.
The kicker position has been a persistent challenge for the Giants due to injuries to Graham Gano and issues with depth. The competition for this role appears to be between three-game veteran Ben Sauls and undrafted rookie Dominic Zvada. The decision between these two less experienced options is considered one of the significant surprises of the offseason.
Breakout Candidates and Player Development
As training camp approaches, several players are being identified as potential breakout candidates. On the offensive side, tight end Isaiah Likely is a player to watch. The team reportedly has a specific plan for the 26-year-old, who was the first player the Giants agreed to a deal with during the negotiating period. Likely could emerge as a primary option in the passing game early in the season. His former numbers in Baltimore, where he played behind Mark Andrews, did not fully reflect his potential, and he now has the opportunity to be the top tight end. Quarterback Jaxson Dart has praised Likely, describing him as a savvy and smart player who is difficult for defenders to cover due to his unique movement and ability to find open zones.
On the defensive side, safety Tyler Nubin is considered a breakout candidate. A former second-round pick, Nubin accumulated 13 interceptions during his final four seasons at Minnesota. While he has not yet recorded an interception in his first two NFL seasons, the presence of defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson is expected to help the young safety and the rest of the secondary perform at their best. Another player, Abdul Carter, a first-round pick from last year, is also expected to have a significant second year.
The Giants are counting down to the start of training camp with a series of questions focusing on various aspects of the team and player development.
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Source: bigblueview.com
Mason Reed
Sports reporter covering football, basketball and international competitions.