The New York Giants are on the hunt for new talent as they look to improve their roster during the offseason, particularly focusing on adding depth and skill at key positions. With the 2025 NFL Draft around the corner, all eyes are on the franchise's push for game-changing players, especially at quarterback and cornerback.
General Manager Joe Schoen is under pressure to secure impactful players, particularly as the team considers upgrading their quarterback position. Rumors swirl around Travis Hunter as the Giants evaluate their options for the upcoming draft, choosing between talented prospects. Hunter is noted not just for his versatility on both sides of the ball but also for the buzz he has created through impressive performances.
Meanwhile, the Giants are exploring immediate solutions through free agency, eyeing established cornerbacks such as D.J. Reed, Charvarius Ward, Carlton Davis, and Byron Murphy. Pro Football Focus has pointed out 26-year-old Chargers cornerback Kristian Fulton as a viable and affordable option for the Giants. Fulton, who has experience playing under New York’s current defensive coordinator Shane Bowen, stands out as someone who might excel within the team's defensive scheme.
Fulton had his best season last year, showing prowess both in coverage and run support. "His 44.6 passer rating allowed when targeted ranked eighth among qualifiers," commented PFF analyst Bradley Locker, detailing Fulton’s impressive performance metrics. After amassing one interception, 51 combined tackles, and seven pass breakups during the 2024 season, his statistics reflect the growth he has achieved since exiting from the Titans organization where Bowen previously coached him.
The Giants face uncertainty with unrestricted free agent Adoree' Jackson, who isn't expected to re-sign with the team, as well as cornerback Deonte Banks struggling at times last season. Schoen has indicated the importance of strengthening the defensive backfield and securing depth, especially after seeing Fulton’s ability to halt the run—an area where last year’s defense faced significant challenges.
Intriguingly, the team’s improved performance hinges not only on acquiring new talent but also on allowing players like Dru Phillips, who impressed during his rookie season, to flourish within the compounding strength of the revamped roster. The strategic addition of Fulton could augment the depth as the Giants work to fortify specific sectors of their lineup.
On the other side of the league, the Tennessee Titans are also preparing for significant shifts during the upcoming offseason. Currently holding the top pick at the 2025 NFL Draft, the Titans have outlined their strategy clearly: they are open to trading this prime selection or using it for standout talent deemed as 'generational.' While they might not draft a quarterback with their first-round pick, it’s clear they seek to fill this pivotal position through their free agency moves.
The Pro Football Focus has identified veteran quarterback Russell Wilson as the 'perfect' match for the Titans, filling the need for experienced leadership at the helm. With clarity around their quarterback strategies, the Titans appear unlikely to draft one early, as they weigh the task of developing Will Levis versus introducing Wilson, who is seasoned and has shown capability under pressure.
Wilson's experience would be advantageous for head coach Brian Callahan, who values accuracy and decision-making. Despite being 36, Wilson has been known for getting the job done as evidenced by his impressive track record, completing nearly 65% of his career passes. Last year, he threw 16 touchdowns with just five interceptions, showcasing his ability to lead effectively. Head-to-head comparisons with Levis, who struggled with 13 touchdowns against 12 interceptions last season, suggest Wilson would be the commanding presence needed for the Titans.
The Titans also have notable assets like Calvin Ridley, whose connection with Wilson could highlight their pass-heavy game plan. Ridley’s profile hints at potential downfield tactics, especially since Wilson is statistically adept at pushing the ball downfield, evidenced by his PFF deep passing grade leading the league.
Meanwhile, the Dallas Cowboys have their eyes set on improving at the wide receiver position after finishing with poor receiving metrics last year. Pro Football Focus has proposed star receiver Stefon Diggs as the ideal acquisition for the Cowboys, who particularly need to upgrade Dak Prescott's supporting cast. Diggs, now 31, is coming off of major injury, having torn his ACL last season, but remains valued for the capacity to reshape the receiving core with proven success.
The Cowboys have the financial flexibility to engage with the free-agent market, boasting over $54 million in salary cap space. The market value for Diggs sits at about $13.5 million, highlighting the realistic potential for Dallas to make this addition. His past performance with the Minnesota Vikings and the Buffalo Bills has established his pedigree as someone who can excel and add depth to the passing attack.
This offseason holds distinct potential for transformation across these franchises, from the pivotal picks at the draft to strategic acquisitions through free agency. Each team's pursuits will not only define their individual fates for the next season but also contribute significantly to the NFL's broader competitive balance as they attempt to target improvement and capitalize on the shifting talent pool.