Could the New York Giants Make a Stunning Comeback in 2026?
After a tough 2025 season that saw the New York Giants finish with a 4-13 record, there's a fresh breeze of optimism blowing through the Big Apple. The hiring of head coach John Harbaugh has injected new life into the franchise, and despite last year's struggles, several young players have shown flashes of brilliance.
The Giants' potential resurgence in 2026 is not just a dream for their fans. It's a possibility that echoes the recent turnarounds of teams like the Patriots, Bears, Seahawks, and Jaguars.
Giants' Rising Prospects for 2026
Pro Football Focus has identified the Giants as one of the teams on the rise. While they're not yet full-fledged contenders, the "statement" hiring of Harbaugh and the promising young talent on the roster are cause for optimism.
The real key to the Giants' success hinges on the development of quarterback Jaxson Dart. With a PFF grade of 68.4, Dart ranked 27th among quarterbacks, but his rookie season showed he has the potential to be a game-changer. His ability to create plays when things break down has drawn comparisons to stars like Josh Allen and Patrick Mahomes.
Dart finished his rookie year with 24 total touchdowns (15 passing and nine rushing) and just five interceptions in 12 starts. His impact was clear: the Giants went 4-8 in games he started and 0-5 without him.
The Harbaugh-Dart Duo: A Recipe for Success?
Injuries were a significant factor in the Giants' struggles last season. Key players like Malik Nabers, Cam Skattebo, and Andrew Thomas missed time, but their return in 2026 adds to the team's promise.
However, there's still work to be done. The Giants need to bolster their offensive lineup and strengthen their secondary.
Holding the No. 5 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft gives them a golden opportunity to address these needs. Options include Ohio State's safety Caleb Downs or wide receiver Carnell Tate.
Every year, a couple of NFL teams manage to leap from the bottom to the top, often driven by a breakout performance from a rising star quarterback. If Jaxson Dart can elevate his game in 2026, the Giants could find themselves in contention sooner than anyone expected.