Sport

The New York Giants’ Rookie Class Shines Amid Chaos: A Bright Future Ahead?

2024-12-31

Author: Ken Lee

As the 2024 New York Giants season spirals out of control with a dismal 3-13 record, optimism seems hard to find in the aftermath of a franchise-record 10-game losing streak. However, amidst the struggle, the performance of their rookie class has provided a glimmer of hope for fans looking toward the future.

In the wake of a chaotic year characterized by a lack of consistency and direction, the Giants finally secured a long-awaited victory against the Colts, ending their painful losing streak. The Giants have faced quarterback unpredictability, with Drew Lock and Tommy DeVito stepping in after Daniel Jones left the team, highlighting a concerning regression since the 2022 season. With the 2025 NFL Draft on the horizon, General Manager Joe Schoen has staked his reputation on the talents of this year’s rookie class to bolster his case for retaining his position.

Here’s a closer look at the Giants’ 2024 rookie report card, highlighting their impact as the season reaches its conclusion:
Round 1 (No. 6): Malik Nabers, WR

The decision to bypass quarterbacks like J.J. McCarthy and Michael Penix Jr. for the star receiver Malik Nabers is one that evokes debate among analysts. Regardless, Nabers has quickly established himself as a pivotal figure, breaking Odell Beckham Jr.'s franchise record for rookie receptions with 104 catches. With 1,140 yards and six touchdowns, he stands a chance to surpass Beckham’s rookie yards mark in the final game against the Eagles. His versatility and remarkable ability to secure contested catches highlight his potential as a future top-five receiver in the league.

Grade: A
Round 2 (No. 47): Tyler Nubin, S

Despite a season-ending ankle injury that halted his progress, Tyler Nubin made an impressive mark in his limited time, leading the team in defensive snaps and ranking second in tackles with 98. His aggressive playing style and quickness provided a promising glimpse of what he could offer if he stays healthy. Staying in contention as the top rookie defender in tackles speaks volumes about his potential.

Grade: B
Round 3 (No. 70): Dru Phillips, CB

Dru Phillips has quickly emerged as a significant player in the Giants' defense, showcasing his ability to dominate on multiple fronts. With 67 tackles, two forced fumbles, and an eye-catching interception, Phillips has proven to be the type of defensive asset that teams covet. His understanding of defensive schemes and dynamic playstyle suggests that he could be a cornerstone for the Giants’ secondary moving forward.

Grade: A+
Round 4 (No. 107): Theo Johnson, TE

Theo Johnson's season was plagued by injury, limiting him to two games before going on IR. Nonetheless, in those games, he demonstrated promising skills with eight catches for 93 yards. While needing to further adapt to the professional game, his capabilities as a blocker and potential as a receiver remain evident. The Giants appear to see him as a foundational piece for their offense once he recovers.

Grade: B-
Round 5 (No. 166): Tyrone Tracy Jr., RB

Tyrone Tracy Jr. has been a very exciting surprise in his debut season, surpassing 1,000 yards from scrimmage. Not only has he shown explosiveness with 780 rushing yards and 36 catches, but there’s still room for improvement in securing the ball effectively. His impressive output at such a late draft position marks a significant achievement for the Giants and showcases the potential for a dynamic running back duo moving forward.

Grade: A+
Round 6 (No. 183): Darius Muasau, LB

Stepping up in the wake of injuries to key linebackers, Darius Muasau has proven himself versatile, recording notable statistics in both defensive and special teams capacities. His 47 total tackles and an interception early in the season have made him a reliable backup. Although he’s still a developing player, his readiness to contribute at a moment's notice adds depth to the Giants’ lineup.

Grade: B-

This rookie report card portrays an encouraging snapshot of the Giants' future. With three offensive players showing promise as starters and their defensive acquisitions also making an impact, Schoen’s decisions in the draft are beginning to pay off. While the current season can be characterized as a lost cause, the development of these players is a beacon of hope. If the Giants can find stability at quarterback, the resurgence of talent within this young core could lead to a remarkable turnaround, setting the stage for a bright future in New York. The big question looms: Can these rookies continue to evolve in a revitalized environment, or will they remain sidelined by the ongoing turmoil?