Anticipating the Giants’ 2026 Schedule
As we look forward to the complete New York Giants schedule for 2026, it’s worth examining the team’s roster for players who might break out in the coming seasons.
Tyler Nubin’s Struggles
The 2024 second-round selection has not become the impactful defender the Giants hoped for. In 26 NFL games, he has recorded merely three defended passes and one forced fumble, a far cry from his college days where he intercepted 13 passes across 55 games, including five in his senior year at Minnesota.
Translating College Talent to the NFL
Nubin’s ability to make plays has not transitioned well into the NFL, and his lack of athleticism during pre-draft evaluations appears to have hindered his performance. In the 2025 season, he missed an alarming 16.9% of tackle attempts and faced a passer rating of 119.5, showing signs of regression.
Coaching Impact and Future Potential
The question remains whether Nubin’s limitations were solely his fault or if they were influenced by the strategies employed by former defensive coordinator Shane Bowen and defensive backs coach Marquand Manuel. The Giants opted not to draft Ohio State safety Caleb Downs in the 2026 NFL Draft, indicating they need Nubin to fulfill his potential, especially with John Harbaugh at the helm.
Could Carter Emerge in 2026?
Carter did not meet the expectations set by the Giants after being picked third overall in the 2025 NFL Draft. He ended the season with only four sacks and faced criticism for unprofessional behavior like missing meetings. However, his underlying metrics indicate substantial potential, as he ranked 13th in total pressures among edge defenders, despite his low sack count.
Aligning with Quality Coaching
After some discipline from interim head coach Mike Kafka, Carter showed improvement late in the season. Under John Harbaugh’s leadership, maintaining discipline will be crucial; having a talented ensemble around him may allow Carter to thrive and make significant contributions to the Giants.
The Importance of Alexander and Likely
Replacing Dexter Lawrence will not fall on one player; the Giants have fortified their roster with free agents and draft picks. Alexander, the third-round pick from last year, showed promise but needs to improve his run defense to earn regular playing time. On the offensive side, Likely, who averaged 33.75 receptions during his four seasons with the Ravens, is expected to become a pivotal element following his lucrative three-year contract.
