Tyler Nubin Faces a Pivotal Season with the Giants
Tyler Nubin, the promising second-year safety, seemed poised to build on a strong rookie campaign where he notched 98 tackles and ranked eighth in tackles for loss over just 13 games. The analytics were on his side, with a solid 65.8 overall grade that placed him in the middle of the pack among his peers. However, the 2025 season brought unexpected challenges, especially after the Giants acquired Jevón Holland in free agency to bolster the defensive backfield.
Fast forward to now, and the narrative around Nubin has shifted dramatically. The Giants are eyeing Ohio State's standout safety Caleb Downs with their fifth pick in the upcoming draft. With Holland's hefty contract and Downs' immense potential, Nubin's role as a starter is in jeopardy.
For Nubin, adaptation might be the key to staying relevant. A position switch to linebacker could be his lifeline, especially with John Harbaugh now at the helm and the team in dire need of a defensive tone-setter.
The linebacker corps suffered last season, plagued by injuries and inconsistency. Bobby Okereke faces potential release, Micah McFadden is nearing free agency, and Darius Muasau and Swayze Bozeman are more suited to special teams.
This scenario presents a golden opportunity for Nubin to reinvent himself. He could follow in the footsteps of Jamal Adams, who successfully transitioned from safety to linebacker in 2025, revitalizing his career.
Both players share similar physical attributes, making the transition feasible for Nubin. He'd need to bulk up from his current 210-pound frame, but the potential payoff is significant.
Nubin has always excelled in run support, though his coverage skills have room for improvement. Moving closer to the line of scrimmage could simplify his responsibilities, allowing him to leverage his instincts and react more naturally. While he may not become the elite defender some envisioned, his experience as a defensive back would offer an advantage in covering tight ends and running backs.
Under Harbaugh's guidance, known for developing linebackers like Ray Lewis and Roquan Smith, Nubin has a prime opportunity to thrive. This season could be make-or-break for him in East Rutherford, and learning from a coach renowned for shaping defensive leaders might be just what Nubin needs to carve out a lasting role with the Giants.