Adam Schefter joined Get Up to discuss why the New York Giants could exceed preseason expectations this season. The team opens the 2025 NFL regular season against the Washington Commanders on Sept. 6 at Northwest Stadium.
The Giants’ roster is deeper and more versatile than it has been in years, which makes Tommy DeVito expendable after starting games in each of the past two seasons. With the 53-man roster deadline set for 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday, here is a projection of how the Giants might shape their 53.
Quarterbacks (3): Russell Wilson, Jaxson Dart, Jameis Winston
Tommy DeVito appears to be the odd man out, even though he’s a capable backup. The Giants aren’t looking to trade Winston, valuing him as a player and a leader.
Running Backs (3): Tyrone Tracy Jr., Devin Singletary, Cam Skattebo
Dante “Turbo” Miller may deserve a spot, but the Giants are heavily invested in these three. Miller could end up on the practice squad if he isn’t claimed.
Tight Ends (3): Theo Johnson, Daniel Bellinger, Chris Manhertz
Seventh-round rookie Thomas Fidone II lands on the practice squad. Greg Dulcich flashed at times this summer, but the Giants already have Johnson as their primary pass-catching option.
Wide Receivers (6): Malik Nabers, Darius Slayton, Wan’Dale Robinson, Jalin Hyatt, Beaux Collins, Ihmir Smith-Marsette
Undrafted Beaux Collins beat out Lil’Jordan Humphrey and Montrell Washington thanks to size and blocking. Smith-Marsette earned another chance as the return man based on last year’s performance, ahead of Gunner Olszewski, who seems to be the leading return option.
Offensive Line (10): Andrew Thomas, Jermaine Eluemunor, Jon Runyan, Greg Van Roten, John Michael Schmitz Jr., Evan Neal, Marcus Mbow, James Hudson III, Joshua Ezeudu, Austin Schlottmann
The depth is improved here. Notable omissions include veteran Aaron Stinnie and undrafted rookie Jake Kubas, who had been in the mix at right guard.
Defensive Line (6): Dexter Lawrence II, Roy Robertson-Harris, Rakeem Nunez-Roches, Darius Alexander, Elijah Chatman, D.J. Davidson
Jeremiah Ledbetter was added to help against the run but didn’t gain traction this summer. Davidson emerged as the standout among the holdovers from last year.
Outside Linebackers (4): Brian Burns, Kayvon Thibodeaux, Abdul Carter, Chauncey Golston
This group is described as deep and capable, with Carter positioned to become a rising star and potentially increase his playing time.
Inside Linebackers (5): Bobby Okereke, Micah McFadden, Darius Muasau, Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles, C.J. Board
The inside linebacker corps is the deepest it’s been in years, with Muasau drawing strong expectations and Flannigan-Fowles and Board contributing on special teams.
Cornerbacks (6): Paulson Adebo, Deonte Banks, Cor’Dale Flott, Dru Phillips, Tre Hawkins III, Art Green
Green earned a roster spot through his strong summer play, though the group remains youthful overall.
Safeties (4): Jevon Holland, Tyler Nubin, Dane Belton, K’Von Wallace
Holland, Nubin and Belton are anticipated to play significant roles, with Wallace contributing on special teams and in sub-packages.
Specialists (3): Graham Gano, Jamie Gillan, Casey Kreiter
Gano earned his spot this summer with a string of long field goals, capped by three makes of 50-plus yards in the preseason opener, despite a $4.415 million cap hit.
Commentary and context:
– The Giants’ improved depth across multiple units could translate into more flexibility for coaching decisions, especially in the trenches and at receiver.
– The proposed three-quarterback arrangement is unconventional for an NFL team in a single regular-season roster, and it hinges on strong leadership and health from Wilson, Dart, and Winston.
– If this depth translates to better competition in practice and more reliable special teams, New York could position itself to challenge higher expectations this season.
– The club’s opening-game schedule and how quickly the young players, especially on defense and the WR corps, can contribute will be critical to meeting or exceeding projections.
Summary:
A placement of increased depth across key positions has the Giants optimistic about outperforming some preseason forecasts, with a focus on leadership from veteran quarterbacks and a versatile, battle-tested defense. If the coaching staff can leverage the abundance of options while maintaining health, New York’s 2025 campaign could get off to a strong start.
Positive note:
There’s reason for cautious optimism: a deeper roster at nearly every position offers more ways to adapt to opponents and to manage the grind of the season, which could help the Giants exceed expectations and build momentum early.