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The New York Giants are at a crossroads heading into the 2024 NFL Draft. With the third overall pick, General Manager Joe Schoen and Head Coach Brian Daboll face a franchise-altering decision that could determine the future of the organization—and their own job security. After a disappointing season, the pressure is on to make the right choice, whether that means selecting a quarterback, drafting a generational talent at another position, or even trading down for additional assets. The debate surrounding this pick has sparked intense discussions among fans and analysts alike.
Recent comments from Schoen at the Senior Bowl suggest that the Giants are keeping their options open. “We’re going to be open to anything,” he stated, emphasizing that the team is in a strong position at No. 3. While this flexibility is a positive, it also highlights the complexity of the decision. With several quarterbacks projected to go early—such as Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders—there is pressure to find a long-term answer at the position. However, some experts argue that neither prospect is a can’t-miss, generational talent, leading to the question: Should the Giants use their pick elsewhere?
The franchise’s future hinges on this decision. Selecting the wrong quarterback could set the team back years, while passing on a potential star at another position could be equally costly. With prospects like edge rusher Abdul Carter, cornerback/wide receiver Travis Hunter, and wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan drawing high praise, the Giants must weigh their options carefully. Do they take a chance on a quarterback now, or build around a blue-chip talent and find their franchise signal-caller later? Let’s break down the possibilities and what they mean for the Giants moving forward.
At the Senior Bowl, Joe Schoen made it clear that the Giants are keeping all options open. “We’re going to be open to anything,” Schoen stated. “We’re in a good position sitting at three with the players that are available, but by process of elimination, we know we’re going to get a good player regardless of what happens.”
This statement suggests that the Giants could trade down, select a quarterback, or take the best available player on the board. The decision carries significant weight, as it could shape the franchise’s future and determine whether Schoen and Daboll remain in New York beyond 2024.
One of the major discussions surrounding the Giants’ pick revolves around the available quarterback prospects. Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders are two names often mentioned in the top-three discussion, but there are concerns about their ability to be franchise-altering players.
According to multiple analysts, neither Ward nor Sanders is considered a “generational” talent. If the Giants select a quarterback with the third pick, they must be confident that the player can develop into a long-term solution. However, taking a quarterback just for the sake of drafting one could result in another year of struggles and a high draft pick in 2025.
If the Giants opt against drafting a quarterback, several elite prospects could be available at No. 3:
Abdul Carter (EDGE, Penn State): Regarded as one of the best pass rushers in the draft, Carter could provide an immediate boost to the Giants’ defense.
Travis Hunter (CB/WR, Colorado): A rare two-way player, Hunter possesses elite skills as both a cornerback and a wide receiver, making him an intriguing prospect.
Tetairoa McMillan (WR, Arizona): A dynamic wide receiver who could pair well with the Giants’ existing pass-catchers.
Some analysts believe that if the Giants pass on a quarterback, Travis Hunter could be their pick due to his unique skill set and playmaking ability.
Another possibility is for the Giants to trade down and acquire more assets. This would allow them to accumulate additional draft capital while still securing a solid player. However, trading down comes with risks, as they may miss out on top-tier talent.
With teams like the Titans and Browns also in need of quarterbacks, the Giants could find trade partners willing to move up. But the decision to trade down depends on whether the Giants believe there’s a better option at quarterback later in the draft.
Recent drafts have shown that teams reaching for quarterbacks often regret their decisions. While some late-first-round quarterbacks have exceeded expectations, many high draft picks have struggled. The Giants must avoid making a panic pick just to address the position.
There are potential second-tier quarterbacks, such as Jackson Dart (Ole Miss), who could be available later in the draft. If the Giants take a generational talent at No. 3, they could look to trade back into the first round or target a quarterback in the second round.
While quarterback remains a pressing need, the Giants also have other holes to fill. Their receiving corps, led by Malik Nabers and Wan’Dale Robinson, has shown promise, but adding a player like McMillan or Hunter could elevate the offense.
There have also been rumors about the Giants potentially bringing in Stefon Diggs on a team-friendly deal. If that happens, their receiver group would become even stronger. However, none of this matters unless the Giants have a quarterback who can distribute the ball effectively.
If the Giants skip a quarterback at No. 3, they must have a clear plan for the position. Do they believe in Daniel Jones for another season? Will they sign a veteran bridge quarterback? These are critical questions that must be answered before draft night.
The Giants’ decision will not only shape the future of their franchise but also affect the job security of Schoen and Daboll. If they get it wrong, they may not be around to make another draft pick in 2025.
The Giants must balance short-term and long-term considerations. Drafting a quarterback now could provide hope for the future, but only if they believe in the player. Alternatively, selecting a generational talent could strengthen the roster and set them up for success in future drafts.
Ultimately, the Giants must make a decision based on talent evaluation, not pressure. Whether it’s Ward, Sanders, Hunter, Carter, or McMillan, the choice at No. 3 will define the team’s direction for years to come.
What do you think the Giants should do with the No. 3 pick? Should they take a quarterback or go with the best player available? Let us know in the comments! Don’t forget to subscribe to the GSMC Football Podcast, leave a review, and check out our latest content at gsmcpodcast.com. You can also catch our YouTube videos at GSMC Sports Network!
