In a surprising twist during their bye week, the New York Giants have manoeuvred themselves into possession of the No. 1 overall pick for the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft. This critical shift came courtesy of results elsewhere in Week 14, offering a rare bright spot in a dismal season for the franchise.
How the Draft Order Shifted
The pivotal moment arrived when the Tennessee Titans secured a victory over the Cleveland Browns. That result moved the Titans to a 2-11 record, drawing them level with the Giants. Furthermore, the Las Vegas Raiders were poised to join them at 2-11 with an anticipated loss to the Denver Broncos.
However, the NFL Draft tiebreaker system, which considers the strength of schedule, worked decisively in New York's favour. Because the Giants have faced tougher opponents over the course of the season, they currently hold the advantage over both the Titans and the Raiders, placing them first in the draft order.
A Season of Struggle and Injury
This draft boost comes amid a brutally challenging year for the Giants. The team has endured a seven-game losing streak and took the significant step of firing head coach Brian Daboll last month. While there have been flashes of promise from rookies like quarterback Jaxson Dart and running back Cam Skattebo, consistency has been elusive.
The campaign has also been ravaged by injuries. Star wide receiver Malik Nabers suffered a torn ACL, Skattebo dislocated his ankle, and Dart himself has missed considerable time through the first 13 weeks. These setbacks have severely hampered any chance of on-field progress.
Challenges to Holding the Top Spot
Securing the number one pick is not yet a foregone conclusion for the Giants. Several other teams, including the Cleveland Browns, New Orleans Saints, Washington Commanders, and New York Jets, all sit at 3-10. Their results in the remaining weeks of the season could yet alter the final draft order.
If the Giants do maintain their position, it would mark a historic moment for the organisation. They have not held the first overall selection since 1965. Their most recent high pick was in 2018, when they selected running back Saquon Barkley with the second choice.
The coming weeks will be crucial as the Giants navigate the final games of their season with an eye firmly on the future, hoping to convert this draft capital into a franchise-altering talent.
