The New York Giants are actively planning for the future, focusing on key additions to strengthen their roster for the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. Among the notable targets is Ohio State’s standout safety, Caleb Downs. His impressive performance this season, allowing just 134 total yards and featuring a passer rating of only 50.8 when quarterbacks throw in his direction, positions him as a top prospect for the Giants as they aim to bolster their secondary.
Despite their current struggles, the Giants find themselves in a unique position to draft within the top three without pressing needs at quarterback, offensive tackle, or edge rusher. This opens the door to enhancing their defensive capabilities, specifically through acquiring a player with the potential to transform their secondary.
Draft Strategy and Key Picks
In this mock draft scenario, the Giants hold the No. 3 pick, allowing them to select elite talent. The decision is clear: prioritize defensive strength.
**Round 1, Pick 3: S Caleb Downs, Ohio State**
Selecting Downs provides the Giants with a generational talent who can impact the defense across multiple levels. His ability to limit yardage and disrupt passing plays will be critical as the Giants aim to refine their defensive strategy.
**Round 2, Pick 35: CB Colton Hood, Tennessee**
Continuing their focus on the secondary, the Giants could add Colton Hood from Tennessee. Hood has had a breakout season, holding opposing quarterbacks to a 50.0% completion rate and contributing one interception along with eight forced incompletions.
**Round 4, Pick 103: WR Malachi Fields, Notre Dame**
To enhance their offensive options, the Giants may consider Malachi Fields. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 222 pounds, Fields has demonstrated significant potential since Notre Dame’s Week 9 bye, recording 248 yards and three touchdowns in his last three games.
**Round 5, Pick 142: G Keylan Rutledge, Georgia Tech**
On Day 3 of the draft, targeting interior offensive linemen becomes essential. Keylan Rutledge from Georgia Tech has shown promise, allowing only one sack and three pressures across 300 pass-blocking snaps, paired with a strong run-blocking grade of 76.3.
**Round 6, Pick 182: LB Sammy Omisigho, Oklahoma**
Finally, Sammy Omisigho from Oklahoma presents a solid option as a linebacker. His standout season includes no missed tackles and a total of 116 yards allowed in coverage, with no touchdowns surrendered, making him a reliable addition to the defense.
Looking Ahead
As the NFL season progresses, fans are eager to see how their teams will address critical needs in the draft. The Giants’ current record positions them advantageously to select impactful players, making this mock draft an insightful preview of their strategic approach. The emphasis on enhancing both the secondary and offensive playmakers reflects a forward-thinking mindset aimed at achieving long-term success.
With the 2026 NFL Draft on the horizon, the Giants’ decision-making will be closely scrutinized. For now, acquiring talent like Downs and Fields can potentially reshape their roster and influence their performance in the seasons to come.
