Giants Fall to No. 5 Pick in 2026 Draft After Late Wins, Key Prospects Now in Focus
Back-to-back wins ended the Giants’ tough season, affecting their 2026 NFL Draft plans. Teams lacking quarterbacks often have the advantage of drafting first overall, which the Giants had in Week 17. New York fell to No. 5 after beating the Raiders and Cowboys.
Those late-season wins got the Giants to 4–13, but they squandered the chance to control the draft board or trade the first or second pick for a significant package of future assets. The Giants lost after Washington and Cleveland won last week, while the Raiders beat Kansas City to win the top pick. Fifth-place New York has top talent but less freedom.
Giants must decide how to enhance a roster with multiple voids since quarterback is not a priority. The franchise needs wide receiver, cornerback, and offensive tackle most to develop a more complete and competitive team around its young core.
New York will likely sign top wide receivers to improve offense consistency and scoring. Arizona State leading receiver Jordyn Tyson has eight touchdowns in nine games and is strong and reliable in the red zone. Carnell Tate of Ohio State is another big outside receiver who thrives in a packed scheme. Makai Lemon of USC proved he can be a go-to option against top competition with over 1,100 receiving yards and double-digit touchdowns.
Especially in the secondary, Giants value defense. Contract uncertainty and spotty play have cornerbacks worried. Due to his instincts and ball skills, Tennessee’s Jermod McCoy is a promising prospect despite missing the last season with a knee injury. Mansoor Delane’s draft status climbed after a good first year at LSU, bringing physicality and experience from two prominent institutions. Over the past two seasons, Clemson’s Avieon Terrell has provided solid coverage and multiple pass breakups.
The offensive line, especially right tackle, is being evaluated. Right tackle may alter due to age and free agency, but left tackle is solid. Spencer Fano of Utah has played both sides of the line and may provide long-term consistency, while Francis Mauigoa of Miami has played right tackle without switching positions.
Though losing a top-two pick limits trading options, the Giants can move forward. They may pick many players at No. 5 who can immediately impact both sides of the game. How front office balances immediate needs with long-term growth will determine the early rebuild and 2026 season goals.
Late-season wins shifted New York’s draft position but showed concerns. With careful evaluation and decision-making, the Giants can turn the fifth pick into a cornerstone and improve.
Sources
NFL official game results and standings
Pro Football Focus prospect rankings
