The fifth overall pick in the upcoming 2026 draft is a significant topic for the Giants. Given their position, it’s crucial for the team to maximize the chance to bring in game-changing players.
This goal has become even more interesting with the trade of Dexter Lawrence to the Bengals, granting the Giants the tenth overall pick as well. This opens up numerous possibilities for the team.
With a total of eight picks, they could potentially gain more by trading down from one of their early selections. If they stick with their positions, they’ll have three chances among the first 37 picks. It’s also noteworthy that this will be John Harbaugh’s first draft with the Giants, which might lead to some changes over the next few days.
In preparing for this draft, we combined insights from Pro Football Network and ESPN’s simulators to arrive at a clearer consensus.
Here’s a mock draft 5.0 for the Giants.
Round 1, 5th overall: Sonny Stiles, LB, Ohio State University
Previous selection: RB Jeremiah Love, Notre Dame.
The top four picks included Fernando Mendoza, Abel Reese, David Bailey, and Jeremiah Love, which simplifies the decision. If Love had been available, he would have definitely been considered. Stiles addresses several needs for the team. Their run defense took a hit in 2025, and with Lawrence gone, adding Stiles would help. He’s a ferocious tackler, missing only three in his time at Ohio State. A 6-foot-5, 244-pound athlete, his skills are impressive. He could start right away and possibly work alongside free-agent signing Tremaine Edmunds in the near future.
Round 1, 10th overall: Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State
Previous selection: none.
This pick would serve as a backup plan if Malik Nabors’ recovery from ACL surgery takes longer than expected. If Nabors is back on schedule and performing well, Tyson would provide Jackson Dart another top target. During his time at Arizona State, he made 136 catches for 1,812 yards and 18 touchdowns. While he isn’t the fastest and lacks a towering frame at 6-foot-2, 213 pounds, he is both skilled and tough. The Giants have investigated his past injuries, including a left ACL tear in 2022, collarbone fracture in 2024, and issues in 2025 with his ankle and hamstring.
Round 2, 37th overall: Avion Terrell, CB, Clemson
Previous selection: Terrell, DT Caleb Banks, Florida State, G Chase Bisontis, Texas A&M, DT Kristen Miller, Georgia State.
There had been talk of selecting Banks here to improve the defensive line, but Terrell’s potential is too valuable to pass up. He started 31 straight games by the end of his career, and his eight forced fumbles highlight his play around the ball. With the versatility to play inside and out, he may be smaller at 5-foot-11, 186 pounds, but his talent is undeniable. His older brother, AJ, is a former first-round pick with the Falcons. While veteran Greg Newsome II was signed for a single season, Terrell represents a longer-term solution.
Round 4, 105th overall: Jalen Farmer, G, Kentucky
Previous selection: OL Brian Parker II, Duke State, WR Deion Burks, Oklahoma State, WR Brennen Thompson, Mississippi State.
Farmer brings experience, having started 24 games at right guard during the last two seasons, making him a contender for the Giants’ offensive line. At 6-foot-4 and 312 pounds, he excels in run blocking but will require some development in pass protection. Current players like Daniel Faalele and Lucas Patrick are not likely to be long-term solutions.
Round 5, 145th overall: Adam Randall, RB, Clemson
Previous selection: WR Malachi Fields (Notre Dame), CB Jadon Canady (Oregon), LB Caleb Eyarms Orr (TCU).
Randall switched from wide receiver to play running back, finishing as the Tigers’ leading rusher in 2025 with 814 yards and 10 touchdowns. At 6-foot-3 and 232 pounds, he’ll need to refine his skills in this new position. In addition, he made a mark with an average of 23.2 yards on kickoff returns.
Round 6, 186th overall: Dae’Quan Wright, TE, Ole Miss
Previous selection: LB Keyshawn Elliott (Arizona State), RB Adam Randall (Clemson), DT Nick Barrett (South Carolina).
A 6-foot-3, 246-pound threat down the field, Wright caught 39 passes for 635 yards and 5 touchdowns in 2025. He has the opportunity to learn from players like Isaiah Likely and Chris Manhertz, and his connection with former teammate Jackson Dart could be beneficial.
Round 6, 192nd overall: Dontae Corleone, DT, Cincinnati
Previous selection: TE Nate Berkircher, Texas A&M, G Fernando Carmona, Arkansas.
You can’t help but be intrigued by a player known as “Godfather.” At 6 feet and 340 pounds, he’s a run stuffer with limited pass-rushing abilities. As the 2025 team captain, he brings strong leadership and determination.
Round 6, 193rd overall: Markelle Bell, OT, Miami
Previous selection: S Deshon Singleton, Nebraska, LB Caleb Ellams Orr, TCU.
If Bell is still available, his notable size at 6-foot-9, 346 pounds makes him an interesting prospect to consider. Although he’s only started at the FBS level for one year, he has shown promise at left tackle.
