The NFL Draft is like a high-stakes poker game—bluff, strategy, and a dash of guts. For the New York Giants, holding the No. 3 pick feels like sitting on pocket aces with half the table all-in. But here’s the catch. Do they go safe or swing for the fences? The ghost of Phil Simms whispers from the shadows, while Eli Manning’s two rings glint in the MetLife lights. Meanwhile, Joe Schoen and Brian Daboll are crafting a playbook that could redefine Big Blue’s DNA. Let’s just say… things are about to get spicy.

Picture a draft board split between flashy quarterbacks and game-wrecking defenders. The Giants’ war room buzzes like a New York deli at lunchtime. Rumors swirl faster than a Nathan’s hot dog-eating contest. Will they chase the next franchise QB or fortify a defense hungry for dominance? The answer lies in a mock draft that’s equal parts calculated risk and home-run swing. Buckle up, folks.

Round 1, Pick 3: Abdul Carter, Edge, Penn State

The Giants may kick things off by snagging Abdul Carter, a human tornado off the edge. Standing at 6’3” and weighing 250 lbs, Carter has the physical presence to make an immediate impact. In 2024, he led the FBS with 23.5 tackles for loss and ranked seventh with 12 sacks. His ability to switch from off-ball linebacker to defensive end showcased his versatility and adaptability.

Carter’s game is defined by his urgency and athleticism. He explodes off the snap, penetrates gaps, and alters protection schemes with his inside spin move. His closing burst and agility make him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks. His off-the-charts upside has drawn comparisons with Cowboys star Micah Parsons. Despite his dominance, Carter has room for improvement.

His average size and ankle tightness could limit him against stronger opponents. However, his production score of 95, ranked first among 2025 Combine DE/EDGE prospects, underscores his value. For the Giants, Carter isn’t just a pick—he’s a statement. A player who combines Pro Bowl talent with the kind of intensity that makes defenses better.

But wait—why pass on Shedeur Sanders? Insider whispers suggest Carter’s ceiling as a pass-rusher outweighed QB uncertainty. Sure, the stress fracture in his foot raises eyebrows. Yet, pairing him with Kayvon Thibodeaux and Brian Burns? That’s like adding sriracha to an already fiery wings platter. You can’t have too many dogs hunting the quarterback.

Round 2, Pick 34: Jalen Milroe, QB, Alabama

Meet Russell Wilson’s heir apparent. Jalen Milroe, Alabama’s dual-threat maestro, a dual-threat quarterback from Alabama who brings electrifying potential to the table. Standing at 6’2” and weighing 201 lbs, Milroe combines a strong arm with elite mobility. In 2024, he rushed for 726 yards and 20 touchdowns, both team highs, while maintaining a 64.3% completion rate. His deep-ball accuracy improved in 2023, but his 2024 performance showed room for growth in intermediate decision-making.

Despite inconsistencies in pocket presence and intermediate accuracy, Milroe’s raw tools and developmental upside make him an intriguing prospect. Milroe’s 4.5 40-yard dash time hints at his elusiveness, while his 20 rushing touchdowns in 2024 showcased his red-zone threat. Imagine Milroe in bootlegs, slicing defenses like a Broadway showstopper. He’s got that it factor. Big Apple lights won’t scare him.

Round 3, Pick 65: T.J. Sanders, DT, South Carolina

T.J. Sanders isn’t just a gap-plugger—he’s a disruptor. Standing at 6’5” and weighing 300 lbs, he offers a strong presence in the middle. In 2024, he recorded 7 tackles for loss and 4 sacks, showcasing his ability to penetrate gaps and pressure the quarterback. His broad jump of 9’4” highlights his lower-body explosiveness, while his violent hand strikes and strong core make him difficult to move at the point of attack.

Pairing Sanders with Dexter Lawrence is like teaming Shaq and Kobe in the trenches. This kid eats double teams for breakfast. Despite average first-step quickness, his sudden hand swipes and play-through power create disruption. While he lacks knee bend and can struggle against down blocks, his combination of power and pressure makes him a versatile fit for both odd- and even-front defenses. For a D-line that got pushed around in 2024? This pick can be a gut punch to NFC East rivals.

Round 3, Pick 99: Mason Taylor, TE, LSU

Jason Taylor’s son brings swagger to the TE room. At 6’5”, Mason bullied SEC linebackers for 546 yards and 2 TDs. Standing at 6’5” and weighing 251 lbs, Taylor combines size with athleticism. In 2024, he set an LSU single-season record with 55 receptions for 546 yards and two touchdowns. His natural hands, route-running ability, and agility make him a threat to stack linebackers and create mismatches. He’s Gronk-lite. Blocks like a tackle, catches like a WR1.

With Theo Johnson already aboard, Taylor gives Daboll mismatches galore. While he needs polish in blocking and route detail, Taylor’s ability to track throws and make adjustments on the fly makes him a valuable asset. With a father and uncle who are Hall of Famers, Taylor carries elite DNA into the NFL. Think two-TE sets that grind clock or strike deep. Defenses might not know whether to pray or punt.

Round 4, Pick 104: Jackson Slater, OG, Sacramento State

Jackson Slater’s a mauler with 44 starts under his belt. His Senior Bowl dominance made scouts drool. Standing at 6’3” and weighing 311 lbs, Slater combines power with surprising athleticism. He earned three First-Team All-Big Sky honors and a Third-Team Associated Press All-American nod in 2022. He’s Quentin Nelson without the hype.

At the Combine, Slater posted a 5.01 40-yard dash and 31 bench press reps, showcasing his functional strength. Slater might struggle with foot quickness at the next level. Despite his limited ceiling, Slater’s experience and power make him a plug-and-play option at guard. For the Giants, he’s not just a pick—he’s a potential day-one starter with the tools to protect Andrew Thomas’ blind side.

Giants Mock Draft: Digging for a few more diamonds

Round 5, Pick 154: Demetrius Knight Jr., LB, South Carolina

Demetrius Knight Jr. is a tackling machine with DeAngelo Hall’s DNA. Standing at 6’2” and weighing 235 lbs, he combines a broad frame with athletic movement. In 2024, he recorded 82 tackles, 8 TFLs, and an interception, showcasing his ability to diagnose plays and make tackles behind the line He’s Luke Kuechly with better hair.

His 4.58 speed at the combine lets him chase down RBs like a cheetah on Red Bull. He’s a future starter with potential to play all three downs. Knight’s instincts and toughness make him a steal in the mid-rounds. And sky’s the limit if he stays hungry.

Round 7, Pick 219: Kyle Monangai, RB, Rutgers

Local kid alert! Kyle Monangai rushed for 2,500+ yards at Rutgers, earning Ahmad Bradshaw 2.0 comparisons. Standing at 5’8” and weighing 211 lbs, he lacks breakaway speed but makes up for it with sudden cuts and exceptional contact balance. In 2024, he rushed for 1,279 yards and 13 touchdowns on 256 carries, averaging 5.0 yards per attempt.

He’s not fast, but he’ll truck your safety. His low center of gravity and ability to change direction instantly make him a nightmare for defenses. While he might not be a third-down specialist, Monangai’s reliability and power make him a perfect early-down workhorse. Think of him as the blue-collar backbone of any running game.

Round 7, Pick 246: Jacolby George, WR, Miami

Jacolby George is a late-round lottery ticket. His 14.2 yards per catch (2024) and punt-return chops add depth. Standing at 5’11” and weighing 172 lbs, he combines feisty competitiveness with route-running savvy. In 2023, he led Miami with 864 receiving yards and 8 touchdowns, averaging 15.2 yards per catch. He’s got Randy Moss hands in a slot receiver’s body. For a WR room needing spark? Worth the flier.

George’s ability to win boundary catches and maintain top speed during routes makes him a valuable slot option. While his small frame and struggles against physical corners may limit his deep-threat potential, George’s crisp route breaks and punt-return skills (11.8-yard average in 2021-2022) add versatility. For the Giants, he’s a late-round gem with the potential to contribute on special teams and as a slot receiver.

Ending notes on Giants mock draft

This Giants mock draft isn’t just about filling holes—it’s about identity. Carter may bring nastiness to the trenches. Milroe offers hope under center. Taylor and Slater? Building blocks for Daboll’s offensive vision.

As Vince Lombardi once barked, “Perfection isn’t attainable. But if we chase perfection, we can catch excellence.” For Schoen and Daboll, excellence means balancing urgency with vision. Can Carter become the next LT? Will Milroe silence critics?

One thing’s certain: The Giants aren’t playing for participation trophies. They’re reloading for a playoff push, one pick at a time. So, Giants fans—ready to trade doubt for dynasty? As Eleanor Roosevelt once mused, “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”

Would you have taken Shedeur Sanders at No. 3, or is Carter the right call?