After completely overhauling their coaching staff, the New York Giants now have some roster work to do. Giants general manager Joe Schoen is still in place, which means he should have a strong feel for his team’s top strengths and weaknesses. One thing that’s obvious is that the Giants’ 26th-ranked defense must improve.
The Giants will surely make some moves in free agency, but they’re only projected to begin the offseason with roughly $7 million in cap space. While cap cuts and contract restructurings could open up some more money, the Giants’ biggest contributions could come from their 2026 rookie class.
However, the Giants have the benefit of having the fifth overall pick in the first round, putting them in position to select a blue-chip talent. Perhaps even one who can help a defense in dire need.
Despite the presence of Tyler Nubin and Jevon Holland, one popular player commonly projected to land with the Giants in 2026 NFL mock drafts is Ohio State safety Caleb Downs. Recently, coach Harbaugh addressed the possibility of selecting a safety like Downs with what would be his highest-ever draft selection as a head coach.
“We favor Hall of Fame safeties, so if we have a chance to draft a potential future Hall of Fame safety in Caleb Downs, that would be just fine with me,” Harbaugh said. “We’ll take the best player. When you draft that high, you take the best player. It’s not a need pick, it’s a best player pick because you’re going for the guy that’s going to be that kind of player. You’re talking about a player that you would like to see someday wearing a gold jacket if possible.”
John Harbaugh on Caleb Downs
Downs is viewed as one of the best defenders available in the upcoming draft class. If the Giants are trying to prioritize upgrading their weakest unit, Downs would certainly help.
However, the Giants have already invested quite a bit into their group of starting safeties. Nubin was a second-round pick in 2024. Holland was one of their prized free agent additions last offseason, signing a three-year, $45 million contract.
Though, Downs has the potential to be better than both of them. Plus, Holland and Nubin are only under contract through 2027. Meanwhile, Downs can still make an impact as the type of athlete capable of moving all over the field, much like Harbaugh had with All-Pro Kyle Hamilton in Baltimore.
Ultimately, with the Giants already having a quarterback, an elite receiver, an All-Pro offensive tackle, and great pass-rushers, selecting the best player available makes the most sense at No. 5. That could very well be Downs.
Related: John Harbaugh Tried Recruiting Former NFL Head Coach for Top Coaching Role
