INDIANAPOLIS — John Harbaugh has been closely analyzing the Giants’ roster, especially with free agency approaching and decisions needing to be made quickly.
The key players in this scenario are wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson, right tackle Jermaine El Emunor, and cornerback Cordale Flott.
All three have delivered impressive performances for a team that struggled with a 4-13 record last season. Yet, it’s still uncertain if Harbaugh views them as essential pieces for his 2026 lineup.
Harbaugh has taken a deep dive into their stats.
“Ultimately, we know which players we want back,” he mentioned Tuesday during the NFL Scouting Combine.
That’s straightforward. However, the challenge lies ahead. Can the Giants clear the necessary salary cap to make it happen?
“Is there a way to bring them back?” Harbaugh added. It’s part of a larger ongoing discussion. He noted that this week should bring a clearer picture of what the market values will be and what’s feasible.
With all three being starters, their potential exit from the team means finding adequate replacements would be crucial.
“There are ongoing discussions, and I believe we might gain a better understanding of the free agency situation after this week,” Harbaugh stated. He praised Joe Schoen for his effective handling of these matters and expressed curiosity about the results.
Meanwhile, Schoen is optimistic about the recovery of wide receiver Malik Nabors (knee) and running back Cam Skatebo (ankle) from their surgeries that cut their previous season short. Nabors is currently rehabbing in Miami following a serious injury.
“We’ve been in touch, and he seems to be doing well. We’re aiming for him to be ready for training camp,” Schoen said about Nabors, but added a note of caution, mentioning that “every recovery can vary and sometimes there are setbacks.”
The Giants are also looking to hire another video director soon. OLB Kayvon Thibodeau is back on his fifth-year option salary of $14.75 million, and any speculation about him being traded is currently unfounded. There were indeed inquiries about him during last season’s trade deadline.
“I haven’t received any indications yet, but it’s part of my role as a general manager to consider all inquiries about trades,” Schoen explained. “Listening doesn’t mean action will follow, but I always remain open to discussions.”
Schoen conveyed the expectation that “Kayvon will be with us.”
Both Schoen and Harbaugh were asked about co-owner Steve Tisch’s name popping up in Epstein’s files.
“Steve expressed his regrets in a statement weeks ago, and I’ll leave it at that. I won’t go into further detail,” Schoen stated.
Harbaugh added, “I really don’t have much to add on that. Steve issued a statement, conveying his regrets. That’s my stance as well.” When asked if Tisch and Epstein’s situation shifted his perspective on team ownership, Harbaugh replied that his interactions with other owners have been positive, mainly touching on matters of football and team management.
On January 30th, Tisch addressed his involvement, saying, “We exchanged a few emails about various topics. I never accepted invitations or travelled to his island. It’s now clear that he was a terrible person, and I regret my association with him.”
