Giants Shift Focus to Aaron Rodgers After Stafford Decision

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — With the NFL Draft rapidly approaching, the New York Giants are refocusing their quarterback search after missing out on Matthew Stafford, who has restructured his contract to remain with the Los Angeles Rams.

The 2025 NFL Scouting Combine is currently underway, serving as a platform for prospects to showcase their skills and interview with NFL teams. Among the 329 players invited, notable prospects include Cam Ward, Travis Hunter, Shedeur Sanders, and Abdul Carter. While Sanders and Carter are not participating in the workouts, they will meet with teams as the scouting week progresses.

“We’re looking for the best player available that can help us win games in ’25,” said Giants General Manager Joe Schoen earlier this week. “We’re not shying away from taking swings at the quarterback position.”

Following the news of Stafford’s contract renewal, the Giants have turned their attention to soon-to-be free agent Aaron Rodgers. League sources confirm that the franchise has been in discussions about acquiring Rodgers, who despite being under contract with the New York Jets, is expected to become a free agent when the 2025 league year begins on March 12.

Rodgers, a four-time MVP, had his last season cut short by a torn Achilles and struggled through a challenging 2024 campaign, leading the Jets to a 5-12 record. However, his experience and potential as a stopgap option make him an appealing target for the Giants.

“You can always upgrade the quarterback position, and we’re doing our due diligence,” Schoen stated, emphasizing the team’s commitment to finding a legitimate starter.

Sanders, a standout quarterback from Colorado, has been a frequent point of interest for the Giants, especially considering their third overall pick in the upcoming draft. He has exuded confidence in his ability to turn a franchise around. “We went from Jackson State to Colorado and changed two programs back to back,” Sanders said. “You don’t think I could come to an NFL franchise and change a program again?”

The Giants are also considering other veteran options should their pursuit of Rodgers not materialize. They express intent to explore multi-faceted avenues for upgrading their quarterback situation, including potential draft scenarios.

Meanwhile, prospects at the combine continue to make headlines. Notably, Maxwell Hariston, a defensive back from Kentucky, clocked in at an impressive 4.29 seconds in the 40-yard dash. As players showcase their athleticism and skills, the pressure to impress NFL teams increases.

For many teams, including the Giants, the stakes are high as the draft approaches. With a highly touted quarterback class featuring Sanders and Ward, New York aims to make the most of their opportunities this offseason.

“The goal is clear: We want to find a lasting solution at quarterback,” Schoen reiterated, as the 2025 NFL Draft looms on the horizon.