Projecting Each Big Blue Selection After the NFL Combine in the NY Giants Mock Draft 2.0
As the NFL Combine wraps up, the New York Giants are starting to turn their attention to the 2025 NFL Draft. With several key areas of need on both sides of the ball, General Manager Joe Schoen and Head Coach Brian Daboll have an opportunity to reshape the team’s future with a strong draft. The Giants are aiming to strengthen their roster with the right mix of talent to complement quarterback Daniel Jones, enhance their defensive unit, and give Saquon Barkley the support he needs to thrive.
Here’s a look at how the Giants might approach each of their selections in the 2025 NFL Draft, taking into account the performances from the NFL Combine and the team’s current roster needs.
1. Round 1, Pick 25: WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba (Ohio State)
After struggling to provide Daniel Jones with a consistent and reliable receiving corps in 2024, the Giants will be looking to upgrade at wide receiver. The addition of a top-tier pass catcher could help elevate the offense, especially as the team continues to develop Jones.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba had a phenomenal combine, showcasing his smooth route-running and elite ball skills. Despite an injury-riddled 2023 season, his 2022 tape speaks volumes about his ability to create separation and make plays after the catch. He would immediately become a reliable target for Jones, providing the offense with a versatile playmaker that can line up all over the field.
With a lack of a true No. 1 wide receiver, Smith-Njigba’s polished skill set makes him an ideal selection for the Giants to bolster their receiving unit.
2. Round 2, Pick 57: OT Darnell Wright (Tennessee)
Protecting Daniel Jones has to be a priority for the Giants. Although the offensive line improved in 2024, they still need depth and improvement, especially at the tackle positions. Darnell Wright had a standout week at the NFL Combine, impressing scouts with his size, agility, and footwork. A 6-foot-5, 333-pound behemoth, Wright has the physical traits to be a dominant right tackle in the NFL.
In addition to his size, Wright showed great mobility during drills and has the nastiness to be a tone-setter in the running game. He could come in and provide immediate competition for the starting right tackle spot, allowing the Giants to solidify their line and protect Jones while also creating better running lanes for Saquon Barkley.
3. Round 3, Pick 88: EDGE Nolan Smith (Georgia)
The Giants’ defense showed potential in 2024, but there’s still work to be done, especially in the pass rush. While the defensive front has talent, the Giants need an explosive edge rusher to complement Leonard Williams and Kayvon Thibodeaux. Nolan Smith is one of the most dynamic edge prospects in the draft, with incredible burst off the line of scrimmage and an ability to turn the corner on blockers.
Smith’s combine performance helped solidify his first-day talent, showing off his speed and agility in the drills. His leadership on Georgia’s championship-winning defense is also a testament to his maturity and ability to make an impact. Smith would immediately add speed to the pass rush and would be a long-term solution to the Giants’ pass-rushing woes.
4. Round 4, Pick 128: CB Cam Smith (South Carolina)
The Giants have a solid secondary, but cornerback remains a position where they could add depth and youth. Cam Smith from South Carolina is an excellent value pick in Round 4. At the combine, Smith showcased his athleticism and coverage ability, proving to be a fluid and versatile corner who can play both man and zone coverage.
Smith has the ability to step in and provide depth behind Adoree’ Jackson and improve the overall talent pool at cornerback for the Giants. His ability to cover a variety of receivers and make plays on the ball would bolster the defense and give them more flexibility in the secondary.
5. Round 5, Pick 160: RB Tank Bigsby (Auburn)
Although Saquon Barkley is the heart and soul of the Giants’ offense, adding a reliable backup running back is essential to ensure that the offense can maintain its flow if Barkley goes down or needs a breather. Tank Bigsby had an impressive showing at the NFL Combine, clocking in as one of the most explosive backs with a solid combination of size, speed, and power.
Bigsby’s vision and balance are well-suited for a zone running scheme, and his ability to catch passes out of the backfield would add another dimension to the Giants’ offense. In the fifth round, Bigsby could be a steal and would provide the Giants with an excellent option in the running back rotation while also contributing on special teams.
6. Round 6, Pick 190: TE Tucker Kraft (South Dakota State)
While the Giants have some talent at tight end with Darren Waller, the depth at the position is lacking. Tucker Kraft, a former basketball player, offers great upside as a big, athletic tight end with good hands and the ability to stretch the field. At the combine, Kraft showed his explosive athleticism and impressed with his ability to separate from defenders.
Kraft could develop into a strong complement to Waller and give the Giants another dynamic weapon in the passing game. His physical traits make him a mismatch problem for defenders, and his potential as a blocking tight end would help improve the Giants’ run game as well.
7. Round 7, Pick 224: IOL Joe Tippmann (Wisconsin)
The Giants’ offensive line still needs some fine-tuning, particularly in terms of interior depth. Joe Tippmann, who impressed with his strength and agility at the NFL Combine, could be a solid late-round option to add depth to the interior offensive line. Tippmann is a powerful center/guard prospect with the ability to contribute right away as a backup or possibly even push for a starting spot.
The Wisconsin product’s ability to anchor the line and protect the quarterback is an area where the Giants need reinforcements. His versatility and experience in a pro-style system make him an excellent value in the seventh round, and he could develop into a future starter for the Giants’ offensive line.