Giants rookie class honors signal a promising new era in New York

The 2024 season was forgettable for the New York Giants, but their rookie class shined as a beacon of hope for the future. Highlighted by several standout performances, the Giants' rookies not only logged significant playing time but also earned recognition on The 33rd Team’s All-Rookie teams. As the franchise looks to rebuild after a 3-14 campaign, this group might be the foundation for better days ahead.

Malik Nabers, the Giants' first-round pick, headlined the class with a record-breaking season. Nabers set the franchise record for rookie receptions with 109, totaling 1,204 receiving yards and seven touchdowns. Despite catching passes from a carousel of quarterbacks, Nabers proved he could be a reliable, dynamic playmaker. He wasn’t alone in making an impact.

Fifth-round running back Tyrone Tracy Jr. surpassed 1,000 scrimmage yards, providing a dual-threat option out of the backfield. Safety Tyler Nubin, tight end Theo Johnson, and cornerback Dru Phillips also played pivotal roles, earning spots on All-Rookie teams or being cited as future building blocks.

In a season that lacked wins, these rookies delivered highlights and hope, signaling that general manager Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll got it right with this draft class.

Giants 2024 rookie class is ushering in a new era

The Giants’ 2024 rookie class didn’t just participate—they excelled. Nabers and Tracy set records, becoming only the second pair of rookie teammates in NFL history to both top 1,000 scrimmage yards. Tracy emerged as the next man up in the backfield, demonstrating versatility and reliability with 839 rushing yards and 284 receiving yards.

Defensively, Tyler Nubin quickly became a steady presence before his season ended prematurely due to injury. He led all rookies in tackles through 12 weeks and proved adept in coverage, allowing just 204 yards on 19 receptions. Dru Phillips, meanwhile, cemented himself as one of the league’s best young cornerbacks, holding opponents to just 373 receiving yards and one touchdown all season. His standout play earned him the No. 13 spot on Pro Football Focus’ top rookies list.

Even third-round tight end Theo Johnson showed promise, gaining momentum before an injury cut his season short. Johnson’s ability to contribute both as a blocker and pass catcher gives the Giants a versatile weapon moving forward.

For a team in desperate need of a turnaround, the Giants’ rookie class provides legitimate reason for optimism. As GM Joe Schoen noted, “I’m happy with the core foundation that we were able to acquire through last year’s draft. I think those guys will be key pieces moving forward.” With several rookies already performing at a high level, the foundation is in place to usher in a new era of Giants football.

Notably, safety Tyler Nubin and slot defender Andru Phillips were recognized as All-Rookie Second Team selections, further highlighting the depth and talent of this class. Their contributions, alongside first-team standouts like Malik Nabers and Tyrone Tracy Jr., show the Giants’ rookie crop is making an impact across the board.

Of course, turning potential into sustained success will require more than just young talent. A stable quarterback situation and further roster improvements are essential. But with rookies like Nabers, Tracy, and Nubin leading the way, the Giants might not be too far from recapturing their competitive edge.

The 2024 draft class is more than just a bright spot in a bleak season—it’s a promise of better days to come. Giants fans may finally have a reason to believe the future is worth watching.