Is Gunner Olszewski’s skill set enough to secure him a spot on the New York Giants' roster in 2026? That decision will rest with head coach John Harbaugh and general manager Joe Schoen.
Olszewski, a seasoned 29-year-old veteran, has carved out a niche as a reliable return specialist on both kickoffs and punts. While he may not be the flashiest player on the field, his versatility is undeniable, occasionally stepping in as a wide receiver.
In the 2025 season, Olszewski's performance was steady. He averaged 26.2 yards per kickoff return, placing him 25th among 59 players with at least 15 returns, slightly above the league average.
On punt returns, he averaged 9.2 yards, ranking 18th out of 28 qualifiers. Overall, his numbers paint the picture of a solid, if not spectacular, returner.
Financially, Olszewski was a bargain in 2025, costing the team just $1.17 million without any guaranteed money. This makes him an affordable option for a team looking to balance budget and performance.
However, Harbaugh’s history with special teams, especially during his tenure with the Baltimore Ravens, sets a high bar. Under Chris Horton, now the Giants’ special teams coordinator, Baltimore consistently boasted top-tier special teams units.
For the Giants, aiming for average might not cut it under this new leadership. Olszewski will need to prove that he can rise above the norm to fit into this ambitious vision.