Ranking NY Giants' Likeliest 2026 NFL Draft First-Round Targets

From Jalen Styles to Jeremiyah Love, these are the top prospects the Giants are eyeing for their first-round pick.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 8:04am

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A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting an abstract football scene, with sharp geometric shapes and planes in the Giants' team colors of blue, red, and white, conveying the strategic complexity and high-stakes energy of the NFL Draft.The Giants' first-round draft plans are a puzzle of talented prospects, with the team aiming to select the best player available to strengthen their roster.NYC Today

With the No. 5 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, the New York Giants have a number of talented prospects to consider. From linebacker Jalen Styles to running back Jeremiyah Love and safety Keenan Downs, the Giants have several intriguing options that could help strengthen their roster.

Why it matters

The Giants are looking to build on a promising 2025 season and return to the playoffs. Their first-round pick will be a crucial part of that, as they aim to add an impact player who can contribute immediately.

The details

Giants coach John Harbaugh has indicated the team will not necessarily draft for need at No. 5, instead focusing on taking the best available player. Prospects like Styles, Love, and Downs have all met with the Giants and could be strong fits. The team may also consider trading down if the right opportunity presents itself.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place on April 23 in Pittsburgh.

The players

Jalen Styles

A dynamic inside linebacker who would pair well with free agent signee Tremaine Edmunds to strengthen the middle of the Giants' defense.

Jeremiyah Love

A talented running back from Notre Dame who finished with 1,652 yards from scrimmage and 21 touchdowns last season, including two 90-plus yard touchdown runs.

Keenan Downs

A versatile safety who can play in the nickel and make an impact as a game-breaking playmaker in the secondary.

Quentin Tate

A physical wide receiver who can make plays at every level of the field and would complement the Giants' passing attack.

Jalen Reese

A talented edge rusher who has also shown the ability to play off-ball linebacker, providing the Giants with versatility on defense.

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What they’re saying

“A lot of good players. A lot of good players. I mean, there's gonna be a great one there at No. 5, I promise you that. It's gonna be a guy that can really help us be better, for sure. That's 100%, for sure.”

— John Harbaugh, Giants head coach

What’s next

The Giants will continue their pre-draft evaluations and meetings with prospects ahead of the April 23 draft in Pittsburgh.

The takeaway

The Giants have a number of intriguing options with the 5th overall pick, and they appear committed to taking the best available player rather than drafting solely for need. Whichever prospect they select, the Giants are hoping to add an impact player who can help them take the next step in their rebuild.