As the New York Giants stray further from a quarterback selection atop the 2025 NFL Draft, much of the team’s resources may instead be directed to the defense.
General manager Joe Schoen made defensive depth (with special teams versatility) a priority in free agency. The team’s most expensive signings were also on that side of the ball. Corner Paulson Adebo was the team’s first major move, with safety Jevon Holland right behind him.
The two add athleticism and pedigree to a young secondary. Most importantly, they add ball skills, making New York’s unit more potent than seasons past.
With most of the starting roles already solidified on offense, the defense may see even more investment in the 2025 NFL Draft. Likewise, the Giants picked two first-round talents in the following three-round mock draft, made using Pro Football and Sports Network’s mock draft simulator.
Round 1, Pick 3: Penn State Edge Rusher Abdul Carter
The tea leaves seem to be pointing towards Carter and the No. 3 pick, complicating New York’s matters up front. Carter would be a luxury pick in the short term, as Kayvon Thibodeaux did enough to retain his starting job in 2025. However, his immense talent allows the team to move on from Thibodeaux if need be, and he’ll quickly push him for playing time.
Blending elite athleticism with a knack for good hand usage, despite his inexperience, Carter is the best pass rusher in the class and offers a promising blend of floor and ceiling. He might create some logistical problems in 2205. Pairing him with Brian Burns for 2026 and beyond will keep New York in the conversation for elite defensive lines.
Round 2, Pick 34: Notre Dame Cornerback Benjamin Morrison
If Morrison didn’t have some real red flags in his profile, he wouldn’t be on the board early in Round 2. There’s risk laden in his profile after a hip injury dampened his pre-2024 hype.
However, Morrison entered the year as a top-three corner in the class, alongside Will Johnson and Travis Hunter. Passing on Hunter means leaving the second corner spot in uncertain territory.
Morrison addresses that hole with a blend of physicality and ball skills that lend itself to upside. If he’s back at full strength, his athleticism will make a real impact while he irons out technical inconsistencies.
Round 3, Pick 65: Toledo Defensive Tackle Darius Alexander
Having already hosted Alexander on a visit, the Giants are a realistic landing spot for the small-school lineman.
Alexander, as an older prospect, trades some upside for a high floor and an ability to start from Day 1. Paired with Dexter Lawrence and weaponized by quality edge rushers around him, Alexander can push the pocket and instantly improve the run defense that threatened last year’s unit.
Round 3, Pick 99: Colorado State Receiver Tory Horton
Horton has been slept on for parts of the draft cycle, but his quality athleticism makes him an enticing dice roll late on Day 2.
New York will enter 2025 with a similar receiving corps to 2024, but the bottom half of the receiving corps isn’t impressive. Horton’s ability to stretch the field – with a natural feel for separation – makes him a suitable long-term replacement for Darius Slayton and adequate depth for the time being.
The Giants can ill afford to let Jalin Hyatt or Zach Pascal see significant time if a starter goes down. Horton helps insulate the room and he has enough talent to see a part-time role right away.
