The New York Giants are poised for a potential resurgence in 2026, with several breakout candidates on their roster. Here's a breakdown of the players who could make significant strides in the upcoming seasons:
S Tyler Nubin
Nubin's journey from college stardom to the NFL has been a challenging one. His struggles in the NFL are evident, with just three passes defensed and a forced fumble in 26 games. The lack of athleticism and playmaking ability, as evidenced by his pre-draft testing, has been a concern. Nubin's performance in 2025, marked by a 16.9% missed tackle rate and a high passer rating against, further highlights his regression. The Giants' decision not to draft Caleb Downs, a safety with a similar profile, suggests they are counting on Nubin to step up. With a new defensive coordinator and a coach known for high-quality safety play, Nubin has the opportunity to shine. However, his future remains uncertain, and the Giants will need to address his shortcomings to unlock his potential.
OLB Abdul Carter
Carter's rookie season fell short of expectations, with only four sacks and unprofessional conduct. However, his underlying metrics show promise, with a high volume of pass rush snaps and time in the backfield. Pro Football Focus ranked him 13th among edge defenders in total pressures. Carter's improvement after being benched by interim head coach Mike Kafka suggests a learning curve. With John Harbaugh's strict standards and the talent surrounding him, Carter has the potential to become a force on the field and off it. His ability to stay focused and meet expectations will be crucial to his success.
DL Darius Alexander
Alexander, a third-round pick, showed potential as a pass rusher but struggled against the run. With the Giants' extensive free-agent and draft additions, Alexander's run defense must improve to secure regular snaps. At 26 years old, this could be his breakout season if he can hold up against the run. The Giants' depth at defensive line will be a key factor in his development.
TE Isaiah Likely
Likely's production in Baltimore was not up to par, with a career-low 27 catches in 14 games. However, the Giants have high expectations for him, having signed him to a substantial contract. Head coach John Harbaugh believes in Likely's potential, praising his playmaking abilities. Likely's role as a big slot receiver could be transformative, and he has the opportunity to prove his worth. The Giants' investment in Likely indicates their faith in his ability to contribute significantly to the team's success.
QB Jaxson Dart
Dart's rookie season was a testament to his resilience, despite less-than-ideal circumstances. He became the seventh rookie quarterback to achieve a high passer rating and a favorable TD-to-INT ratio. With improved coaching staff and a healthier offensive line, Dart has the tools to break out. His potential to lead the Giants from a struggling franchise to a contender is intriguing. The addition of new offensive linemen and the health of key players like Malik Nabers and Cam Skattebo further enhances Dart's prospects. His development will be a key factor in the Giants' overall success.
