Giants Make Big Moves in 2026 NFL Draft
The New York Giants have secured two top-10 picks in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft, and it seems the new head coach, John Harbaugh, is prioritizing strength on both offense and defense.
With their fifth overall selection, the Giants made a decisive move to pick Ohio State’s standout edge rusher, Abel Reese. This marks their third edge rusher chosen in the first round since 2022, highlighting a clear strategy to bolster their defense.
Then, at the tenth spot, they were fortunate to see safety Caleb Downs available, allowing them to grab yet another standout from Ohio State’s impressive defense. Nevertheless, the Giants appear focused on ensuring the future success of quarterback Jackson Dart, so they shifted to offensive picks next.
Miami tackle Francis Mauigoa was called up at the tenth overall pick. Having played as a tackle for the Hurricanes, it’s anticipated that he will transition to play on the interior of the offensive line.
The Giants also secured Jermaine Elemunor, who excelled as the team’s right tackle last season. While he’s set to retain that position, there are concerns regarding the guard spot, and it’s thought that Mauigoa might step in there.
Draft Projections and Surprises
Interestingly, some pre-draft mock-ups had Reese pegged to go second overall to the New York Jets, but they opted for David Bailey from Texas Tech instead. As the draft progressed, the Arizona Cardinals later drafted Jeremiah Love, marking him as the first running back selected since the Giants picked Saquon Barkley back in 2018. This left Reese to fall to the Giants.
Giants receiver Malik Nabors, who was seen on the draft show alongside Green Bay Packers’ edge rusher Micah Parsons, raised questions about Reese’s position considering the formidable competition from players like Brian Burns, Kayvon Thibodeau, and Abdul Carter, who was picked third overall a year ago. Yet, Harbaugh hinted that Reese might transition to the inside linebacker position, an area that definitely needs bolstering in the Giants’ defense. If this is the route they take, Reese’s athleticism will certainly be put to the test in the league.
On Mauigoa’s side, standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 329 pounds, he was one of the top prospects in the offensive line category this draft. He was recognized as a first-team player for the Miami Hurricanes last year, contributing to their push to the national championship and starting all 16 games at right tackle.
However, there are some health concerns; Mauigoa has been dealing with back issues that may need surgical intervention down the line. The Giants have looked into these health matters and don’t seem too worried about taking a chance on him.
This tenth pick originally stemmed from a trade with the Cincinnati Bengals involving All-Pro defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, who requested a trade amid contract disputes.
Mauigoa seems to already be winning over the Giants fan base, expressing in a draft interview, “I would die for you, Jackson Dart.” That’s the kind of intensity Harbaugh, Dart, and the entire Giants organization appears to be looking to infuse into essential positions.
