Giants GM Joe Schoen Outlines 2026 Draft Strategy: Positional Value & Trade Flexibility
New York Giants General Manager Joe Schoen addressed the media on Tuesday regarding the team's approach to the 2026 NFL Draft. The Giants hold the No. 5 overall selection in a draft class where many of the top-rated prospects play positions that are not typically the highest-paid in the NFL. Schoen discussed trade scenarios, positional value, and the team's current roster assessment.
Draft Context and Team Assets
"The 2026 NFL draft class is characterized by top prospects at positions including running back, inside linebacker, safety, and guard."
Fernando Mendoza is described as the only surefire first-round quarterback prospect. Top-rated prospects cited across reports include:
- Running back: Jeremiyah Love (Notre Dame)
- Inside linebacker: Sonny Styles (Ohio State)
- Safety: Caleb Downs (Ohio State)
- Guard: Vega Ioane (Washington)
- Wide receiver: Carnell Tate (Ohio State)
The Giants currently have seven selections in the draft. The team does not own a third-round pick (traded to the Houston Texans in 2025) or any seventh-round picks. They hold three picks in the sixth round.
Joe Schoen's Statements on Strategy
Schoen stated the team will evaluate every position and player to determine the best course of action.
On Trading the No. 5 Pick
"A trade requires two willing teams."
Schoen noted that market dynamics could make trading difficult, as more teams may want to trade down than up. He indicated the team would not pass on a player they are 'convicted on' just to acquire additional picks. He described scenarios where moving back a few spots might make sense if multiple similarly-rated players are available and the team can acquire an extra pick.
On Positional Value
"Teams often seek to draft players at high-value positions... but it just may not be the case this year."
Schoen acknowledged that teams typically target quarterback, wide receiver, edge rusher, and cornerback to gain surplus value on rookie contracts. However, he noted a key distinction: a wide receiver taken at No. 5 would likely be the 40th highest-paid at his position, while a running back taken at the same spot would be the 10th highest-paid.
Player and Position Assessment
Running Back Jeremiyah Love
Schoen described Love as "certainly an offensive weapon" and "not just a running back," noting his ability to play on third down, line up as a receiver, and catch passes.
Current Running Back Room
When asked about the team's running backs, Schoen said:
"We like our running back room now."
He cited Cam Skattebo's rookie season and Tyrone Tracy's production over the last two years, also mentioning Devin Singletary, Dante Miller, and Eric Gray. Schoen concluded: "We'll see what happens on draft night but like the room the way it's constructed right now."
Other Positions
Schoen indicated that linebacker Sonny Styles and safety Caleb Downs would immediately upgrade the Giants' defense.
Background Context
"The team is in a different place compared to when he took over."
Schoen inherited running back Saquon Barkley from a previous administration. The team did not sign Barkley to a long-term extension, placed the franchise tag on him, and Barkley later signed with the Philadelphia Eagles. Schoen stated his previous focus was on upgrading the offensive line and acquiring a quarterback on a rookie contract.
The Giants ranked fifth in the league in rushing during the 2025 season. New head coach John Harbaugh has stated a desire for a run-centric offense.
Mock Draft Scenario
NFL Network draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah released a final mock draft predicting the Giants would select:
- Running back Jeremiyah Love at No. 5
- Wide receiver Carnell Tate at No. 10 overall
Jeremiah reported that the selections are based on a strategy to build a dynamic offense around quarterback Jaxson Dart. He noted that if Love is not available at No. 5, the Giants would likely select wide receiver Jordyn Tyson.