Giants GM Reflects on QB Dilemma Amid NFL Combine Buzz

INDIANAPOLIS — At the NFL Combine on Tuesday, New York Giants General Manager Joe Schoen addressed the team’s ongoing quarterback search and the lessons learned from last year’s ‘Offseason Hard Knocks’ experience. Despite the Giants’ struggles, Schoen maintains a light-hearted approach when questioned about the lack of inquiries from fellow GMs about his past experiences.

“No, I haven’t gotten any calls on that,” Schoen joked when asked if other general managers had reached out to him regarding the show. “I think I know what I would tell them.” The Giants, who suffered a dismal 3-14 season, now find themselves in a critical rebuilding phase.

Schoen’s situation was complicated last season when his son, Carson, humorously advised him during the series to trade up for quarterback Jayden Daniels, the eventual Offensive Rookie of the Year for the Washington Commanders. “You only get this job once, might as well try to win,” Carson said. Soon after, the Giants passed on several quarterbacks at the sixth overall pick.

“We just had this conversation: completions and winning. I want a winner,” Schoen reiterated, emphasizing the importance of reliable quarterbacks capable of executing plays. His son, now a freshman quarterback at Don Bosco Prep in Ramsey, New Jersey, still plays an influential role in Schoen’s assessments.

When asked which quarterback from this year’s draft class Carson preferred, Schoen withheld specifics, noting, “He sent me some clips this morning, it’s funny you said that. I’m not gonna tell you.” Last year’s prediction about Daniels undoubtedly puts pressure on his father’s decision-making in selecting a suitable rookie.

Addressing the topic of Saquon Barkley, now with the Philadelphia Eagles after winning a Super Bowl, Schoen expressed his happiness for the former teammate. “I’m happy for Saquon. We evaluated all decisions in our build. Love Saquon and wish him nothing but the best,” he said.

On the subject of quarterbacks opting out of throwing during the combine, Schoen expressed understanding of their decision. “If they throw, that’s great. If they don’t, I’m okay with that,” he said, reiterating the importance of proper timing and chemistry with receivers.

Head Coach Brian Daboll, however, has refrained from speaking to the media during the Combine, which is atypical in the league. Schoen explained, “You guys can ask [Daboll] that at the owners’ meetings. That’s something him and I have not discussed, and ultimately that’s gonna be his decision.” The team’s direction could hinge on whether they keep or change Offensive play-callers.

As Schoen navigates through the complexities of trades and drafts, many believe that filling the quarterback position is only one piece of the larger puzzle. The Giants currently lack foundational players in numerous positions, including cornerback and wide receiver, which points to a need for immediate and impactful acquisitions.

In the meantime, a potential trade for veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford remains a consideration. The Rams are reportedly negotiating a contract extension for Stafford, but until a decision is reached, his name remains in the mix for the Giants as they look for a reliable player. “The optimal outcome would be drafting a quarterback while also securing a veteran,” Schoen suggested, showing a keen awareness of their dual strategy.

The exploration for talent continues as the Giants target upcoming draft prospects, particularly focusing on dual-threat players such as Colorado‘s Travis Hunter, who is pushing for recognition as both a corner and a wide receiver. Hunter’s remarkable stats from his college season made him an attractive prospect for multiple teams, and his confidence during interviews has made an impression on scouts.

“I can get the ball in the end zone,” Hunter stated, emphasizing his capability as a key playmaker. If the Giants can secure both a quarterback and a talented position player in the draft, the upcoming season could see significant changes to the team’s dynamics as it moves forward.