Giants Sign Likely, But Must Fortify O-Line Next

New York Giants make splash in free agency, but still have a glaring need to address on the offensive line.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 4:54am

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The New York Giants made a big splash in free agency by signing tight end Isaiah Likely, reuniting him with head coach John Harbaugh. However, the Giants' roster is still a work in progress, and the team's biggest remaining need is to fortify the offensive line, particularly at right tackle and guard. Protecting young quarterback Jaxson Dart must be the top priority for the Giants this offseason.

Why it matters

The Giants struggled mightily in 2025, going 4-13 and missing the playoffs. While the Likely signing gives Dart a dynamic receiving threat, the Giants' offensive line remains a major weakness that could undermine the team's progress if not addressed. Shoring up the offensive line is crucial to Dart's development and the team's chances of competing in the NFC East.

The details

The Giants have been active in free agency, also adding special teams upgrades and a veteran cornerback. However, the right side of the offensive line remains a glaring hole, with uncertainty at right tackle and guard. The Giants need to aggressively pursue a proven, veteran anchor to solidify the offensive line and provide the protection Dart needs to thrive.

  • The Giants signed Isaiah Likely in the opening days of 2026 NFL free agency.
  • The 2025 season saw the Giants struggle to a 4-13 record, leading to the dismissal of head coach Brian Daboll.

The players

Isaiah Likely

A tight end who the Giants signed in free agency, reuniting him with head coach John Harbaugh.

Jaxson Dart

The Giants' young quarterback, who needs improved offensive line play to reach his full potential.

Joe Schoen

The Giants' general manager, who has been active in free agency to improve the roster.

John Harbaugh

The Giants' new head coach, who previously coached Likely with the Baltimore Ravens.

Brian Burns

A defensive standout for the Giants, but the team's defense struggled overall in 2025.

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What’s next

The Giants must aggressively pursue a top-tier offensive tackle or guard in free agency to solidify the right side of their offensive line and provide the protection Jaxson Dart needs to succeed.

The takeaway

The Giants have made some promising moves in free agency, but their biggest remaining need is to fortify the offensive line. Protecting their young quarterback Jaxson Dart must be the top priority for the team this offseason if they want to be serious contenders in the NFC East.