The New York Giants endured a tough 2024 season, finishing with a disappointing 3-14 record. However, the new season brings fresh hope, thanks to new talent on the roster. With changes in place, there’s potential for a much-improved outcome in 2025.
Despite the many challenges of last season—including losing quarterback Daniel Jones to injury—there was a silver lining, and that bright spot is still on the team. Now, with veteran quarterback Russell Wilson in the mix, that standout player could take his game to the next level.
In a May 21 article for Pro Football Focus, NFL analyst Trevor Sikkema ranked the top 32 wide receivers heading into the 2025 season, using a mix of analytics, film study, and scheme context. One of the Giants’ own, Malik Nabers, earned high praise by landing at No. 12 on the list.
“Wide receiver continues to be one of the most impactful and versatile roles in the game today,” Sikkema noted. “From dominant outside threats to agile slot weapons, elite receivers reshape offensive schemes and enhance quarterback performance.”
Nabers, a 2024 first-round pick who signed a four-year, $29.2 million rookie deal with an $18 million signing bonus, had a stellar debut season. According to Sikkema, he stood out despite erratic quarterback play, finishing with an 87.1 receiving grade—ninth-best in the league—and averaging 2.17 yards per route run, a strong indicator of even greater potential as the offense stabilizes.
At the top of Sikkema’s list was Philadelphia Eagles star A.J. Brown, a player renowned for his dominance. “Brown’s excellence against single coverage stands out,” Sikkema wrote. “He posted a league-best 96.6 grade versus single coverage in 2024 and has led the league in that metric since 2022.”
In a May 22 Bleacher Report article, NFL analyst Alex Ballentine reviewed each team’s roster needs and trade assets heading into the new season. For the Giants, quarterback remains a question mark, even with Russell Wilson now in the lineup. Ballentine points to defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux as the team’s most valuable trade chip.
“The pressure is on Brian Daboll to get the team back on track,” Ballentine wrote. “That could mean squeezing one solid season out of Wilson or fast-tracking Jaxson Dart’s development.”
He also suggested that Thibodeaux might be trade bait following the addition of linebacker Abdul Carter, and that backup quarterback Jameis Winston could draw interest from other teams as well.