Ranking the New York Giants: Color-Coded Player Evaluations for 2025

Evaluating the New York Giants Roster for 2025

As we look ahead to the 2025 NFL season, it's time to take a deep dive into the New York Giants roster and evaluate the talent at each position. Using a color-coded system inspired by NFL front offices, we'll break down the key players and assess their potential impact for the upcoming season.

The Color Code System

Before we dive into the player evaluations, let's review the color code system we'll be using:

• Blue: All-Pro caliber player
• Red: Excellent starter
• Orange: Quality starter
• Yellow: Rotational player / solid backup
• Purple: Unknown potential / clock is ticking
• Green: Rookie

Now, let's break down the Giants roster by color tier, focusing on the core players who are expected to make significant contributions in 2025.

Blue Chip Players: The Elite Talent

Dexter Lawrence - Defensive Tackle

Dexter Lawrence stands out as the premier blue chip player on the Giants roster. Widely regarded as the best player on the team, Lawrence has established himself as a dominant force on the defensive line. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses and command double teams makes him an invaluable asset.

While Lawrence is already performing at an elite level, there's a neutral outlook on his future progression. He's playing at such a high level that it's difficult to imagine significant improvement. However, maintaining his current level of play would still make him one of the best defensive tackles in the NFL.

Malik Neighbors - Wide Receiver

Malik Neighbors has quickly ascended to blue chip status, with his stock continuing to rise. The young receiver has shown flashes of brilliance and is poised to become one of the NFL's top wideouts. His route-running precision, reliable hands, and ability to create separation make him a constant threat in the passing game.

Expectations are high for Neighbors in 2025, with many predicting he'll cement his place among the league's top five receivers. His chemistry with the quarterback and ability to make clutch plays in critical moments will be key factors in the Giants' offensive success.

Andrew Thomas - Offensive Tackle

Andrew Thomas has overcome early career struggles to become one of the NFL's premier left tackles. His inclusion in the blue chip category speaks volumes about his development and importance to the Giants' offensive line.

The only concern with Thomas is his injury history, which has caused him to miss time in previous seasons. When healthy, he's a top-five tackle in the league, providing excellent pass protection and run blocking. The Giants' success in 2025 will heavily depend on Thomas staying on the field and anchoring the offensive line.

Brian Burns - Edge Rusher

The addition of Brian Burns to the blue chip category might surprise some, but his impact on the field is undeniable. Despite playing for struggling teams in recent years, Burns has consistently produced at a high level. His combination of speed, bend, and relentless motor makes him a nightmare for opposing offensive tackles.

In 2025, Burns has the potential to elevate his game even further. With an improved supporting cast on the Giants' defensive line, he should see more one-on-one opportunities to exploit. If he can stay healthy and build on his previous production, Burns could be in for a career year.

Red Chip Players: Excellent Starters

Javon Holland - Safety

Javon Holland represents one of two red chip players on the Giants roster. At 25 years old, Holland has already established himself as one of the better safeties in the league. His versatility allows him to excel in both coverage and run support.

While Holland's arrow is pointing slightly up, there's still room for growth. The Giants' coaching staff will be looking for him to take another step forward in 2025, potentially elevating his game to blue chip status. Improved consistency and playmaking ability could be the key to Holland's continued development.

Paulson Adebo - Cornerback

Paulson Adebo joins Holland in the red chip category, solidifying the Giants' secondary. As one of the top cornerbacks available in free agency, Adebo's addition to the roster was a significant coup for the Giants' front office.

At just 25 years old, Adebo has plenty of room for growth. His combination of size, speed, and ball skills make him a formidable matchup for opposing receivers. If he can continue to refine his technique and improve his consistency, Adebo has the potential to become a shutdown corner for the Giants.

Orange Chip Players: Quality Starters

Russell Wilson - Quarterback

Russell Wilson finds himself in the orange chip category as he enters the latter stages of his career. While no longer the elite quarterback he once was, Wilson proved with the Pittsburgh Steelers that he can still be a solid starter in the right system.

The Giants are hoping that Wilson can provide stability and leadership to their offense in 2025. His experience and ability to make plays outside the pocket could be valuable assets, especially if the offensive line struggles. While his arrow is trending down due to age, there's potential for Wilson to have a resurgent year in the Giants' offense.

Jon Runyan - Offensive Guard

Jon Runyan has been a model of consistency since joining the Giants. While not a flashy player, Runyan provides solid play at the guard position. His reliability and durability make him a valuable piece of the offensive line.

Runyan's arrow remains neutral, as he's likely reached his ceiling as a player. However, his steady presence will be crucial for the Giants' offensive line cohesion in 2025.

Jermaine Eluemunor - Offensive Tackle

Jermaine Eluemunor has found a home at right tackle for the Giants after bouncing around different positions earlier in his career. His versatility has been an asset, but settling into one spot has allowed him to improve his craft.

Eluemunor's arrow is pointing slightly up, as there's still room for growth in his game. If he can continue to develop and solidify the right side of the line, he could be in line for a contract extension with the Giants.

Darius Slayton - Wide Receiver

Darius Slayton has been a consistent producer for the Giants, even if he's not considered an elite receiver. His ability to stretch the field and make big plays has earned him a spot in the orange chip category.

While Slayton may never become a true number one receiver, his role in the offense is valuable. His chemistry with the quarterback and knack for coming up with clutch catches make him an important part of the Giants' passing attack.

Kayvon Thibodeaux - Edge Rusher

Kayvon Thibodeaux showed significant improvement in his second NFL season, earning him a spot in the orange chip category. His pass-rushing skills have developed nicely, and he's becoming more well-rounded as a defender.

Thibodeaux's arrow is pointing up, as there's still plenty of room for growth in his game. With an improved supporting cast around him, Thibodeaux could be poised for a breakout season in 2025.

Bobby Okereke - Linebacker

Bobby Okereke remains a solid starter for the Giants, though his arrow is trending slightly downward. After a somewhat disappointing 2024 season, Okereke will be looking to bounce back and prove he's still a quality linebacker.

Okereke's ability to play in space and contribute in both run defense and pass coverage makes him a valuable piece of the Giants' defense. If he can regain his form from earlier in his career, he could solidify his spot in the orange chip category.

Nuben - Defensive Back

Nuben has shown enough potential to earn a spot in the orange chip category, with his arrow pointing directly up. The young defensive back has the tools to become a plus starter in the league, though he's not quite there yet.

The Giants' coaching staff will be looking for Nuben to take a significant step forward in 2025. His versatility and athleticism make him an intriguing piece in the secondary, with the potential to play multiple positions.

Drew Phillips - Cornerback

Drew Phillips, the Giants' third-round pick from the 2024 draft, has quickly established himself as a solid starter in the slot. While he still has room for improvement, particularly in man coverage, Phillips has shown the ability to be a physical presence in the secondary.

As Phillips continues to develop, the Giants hope he can become more consistent in coverage while maintaining his impact in run support. His arrow is pointing up, with the potential to become one of the better slot corners in the league.

Yellow Chip Players: Solid Backups

Greg Van Roten - Offensive Guard

Greg Van Roten finds himself in the yellow chip category as a solid backup who's been thrust into a starting role. While he's serviceable as a starter, the Giants would ideally like to upgrade the position in the future.

Van Roten's experience and versatility make him a valuable depth piece, but his limitations as a starter could be a weak point for the offensive line in 2025.

Wan'Dale Robinson - Wide Receiver

Wan'Dale Robinson's placement in the yellow chip category may be controversial among some fans, but his limitations as a player are evident. While Robinson has shown flashes of playmaking ability, his small stature and limited catch radius restrict his overall impact.

Ideally, Robinson would be best suited as a second slot receiver in the offense. His quickness and ability to create separation in short areas make him a useful piece, but he struggles to win consistently on the outside or in contested catch situations.

Tyrone Tracy - Running Back

Tyrone Tracy impressed as a rookie, earning him a spot in the yellow chip category. As an RB2, Tracy provides solid depth and has shown potential to contribute in multiple facets of the game.

Tracy's arrow is pointing up, as there's still room for growth in his game. If he can improve as a pass-catcher and in pass protection, he could elevate himself to the orange chip category in the future.

Theo Johnson - Tight End

Theo Johnson finds himself in the yellow chip category as he enters his second NFL season. While he's currently slated as the Giants' starting tight end, Johnson still has much to prove at the professional level.

Johnson's arrow is pointing straight up, as there's significant potential for growth in his game. If he can develop into a reliable target in the passing game while improving his blocking, he could quickly move up to the orange chip category.

Daniel Bellinger - Tight End

Daniel Bellinger remains in the yellow chip category as a solid backup tight end. While he's shown flashes of potential, Bellinger hasn't been able to secure a larger role in the offense.

Bellinger's arrow is pointing sideways, as it seems he may have reached his ceiling as a player. However, his ability to contribute as both a blocker and occasional receiving threat makes him a valuable depth piece for the Giants.

Jameis Winston - Quarterback

Jameis Winston provides the Giants with a quality backup quarterback option. His experience and ability to step in and run the offense if needed make him a valuable insurance policy.

While Winston's days as a full-time starter may be behind him, his presence in the quarterback room and ability to mentor younger players add to his value for the Giants.

Devin Singletary - Running Back

Devin Singletary enters 2025 as the Giants' RB2, though he could potentially slide to RB3 by season's end. Singletary's ability to make defenders miss and contribute in the passing game make him a solid backup option.

While Singletary may not be a game-changing player, his experience and well-rounded skill set provide valuable depth to the Giants' backfield.

Chauncey Golston - Defensive Line

Chauncey Golston joins the Giants as a free agent addition, bringing versatility and depth to the defensive line. His ability to play multiple positions along the line makes him a valuable rotational piece.

Golston's impact may be greater than many expect, as he should see significant playing time in the Giants' defensive line rotation. His ability to contribute in both run defense and as a pass rusher adds to his value.

Micah McFadden - Linebacker

Micah McFadden has exceeded expectations as a day three draft pick, earning him a spot in the yellow chip category. While he's currently slated as a starter, McFadden would ideally be a high-end backup and special teams contributor.

McFadden's ability to diagnose plays quickly and contribute in multiple phases of the game make him a valuable piece of the Giants' linebacker corps.

Cor'Dale Flott - Cornerback

Cor'Dale Flott rounds out the yellow chip category as a versatile defensive back. His ability to play both in the slot and on the outside gives the Giants' secondary valuable flexibility.

Flott's arrow is pointing slightly up, as there's still room for growth in his game. If he can continue to develop and make more impact plays, he could solidify himself as a key piece of the Giants' secondary rotation.

Purple Chip Players: Potential, but Time is Running Out

Jalin Hyatt - Wide Receiver

Jalin Hyatt enters a crucial year in 2025, landing him in the purple chip category. After a disappointing sophomore season, Hyatt needs to prove he can be a consistent deep threat in the NFL.

With one of the league's best deep-ball passers now at quarterback, Hyatt has no excuses. This season will likely determine whether he has a long-term future with the Giants or if he'll be looking for a new team in 2026.

John Michael Schmitz - Center

John Michael Schmitz finds himself in the purple chip category as he enters a make-or-break third season. While he showed improvement in his second year, Schmitz needs to take another significant step forward to secure his place as the Giants' long-term center.

If Schmitz can improve his consistency and become a stabilizing force in the middle of the offensive line, he could earn himself a contract extension. If not, the Giants may be forced to look for his replacement in the near future.

Evan Neal - Offensive Line

Evan Neal's move to guard puts him squarely in the purple chip category. After struggling at tackle, Neal needs to prove he can be an effective interior lineman to salvage his NFL career.

The potential is still there for Neal to become a solid starter, but time is running out. His performance in 2025 will likely determine whether he has a future with the Giants or if he'll be looking for a fresh start elsewhere.

Eric Gray - Running Back

Eric Gray enters 2025 firmly on the roster bubble, landing him in the purple chip category. After three underwhelming seasons, Gray needs to show significant improvement to maintain his spot on the team.

Gray's lack of explosiveness, power, and contributions in the passing game and on special teams have limited his impact. He'll need to find a way to stand out in training camp and preseason to secure his roster spot.

DJ Davidson - Defensive Tackle

DJ Davidson finds himself in the purple chip category as he faces increased competition on the defensive line. With the Giants adding talent to the position group, Davidson needs to show he can be a consistent contributor to maintain his place on the roster.

If Davidson can carve out a role as a reliable rotational piece, he could elevate himself to the yellow chip category. However, another underwhelming season could see him looking for a new team in 2026.

Deonte Banks - Cornerback

Deonte Banks enters a pivotal third season, landing him in the purple chip category. After an up-and-down start to his career, Banks needs to show he can be a consistent performer in the secondary.

With the addition of Paulson Adebo, Banks will have the opportunity to settle into a CB2 role. If he can take advantage of this change and show improvement in his coverage skills, he could quickly move up to the orange chip category. However, another inconsistent season could see his long-term future with the Giants in jeopardy.

Tre Hawkins - Cornerback

Tre Hawkins enters 2025 fighting for his roster spot, placing him in the purple chip category. After generating buzz in his rookie offseason, Hawkins has failed to make a significant impact on the field.

Hawkins will need to show marked improvement in training camp and preseason to secure his place on the team. His ability to contribute on special teams could be a deciding factor in whether he makes the final roster.

Dane Belton - Safety

Dane Belton rounds out the purple chip category as he looks to carve out a role in the Giants' secondary. After showing promise as a ball-hawking safety early in his career, Belton needs to prove he can be a consistent contributor.

With the Giants likely to employ multiple defensive back sets under their new defensive coordinator, Belton has an opportunity to secure the third safety role. His performance in 2025 will determine whether he has a long-term future with the team or if he'll be looking for a new home in 2026.

Rookie Projections

Abdul Carter - Linebacker (Blue Chip Projection)

Abdul Carter enters the NFL with sky-high expectations, earning him a blue chip projection. The Giants believe they've landed a generational talent at linebacker, with Carter possessing the athleticism, instincts, and playmaking ability to become an immediate impact player.

While it's a bold projection for a rookie, Carter's potential to transform the Giants' defense makes him worthy of the blue chip designation. If he can translate his college success to the NFL, Carter could be in the running for Defensive Rookie of the Year honors.

Jackson Dart - Quarterback (Orange Chip Projection)

Jackson Dart enters the NFL with an orange chip projection, indicating the Giants believe he can become a quality starter. While he may not see the field much in 2025, Dart has the tools to develop into the Giants' quarterback of the future.

Dart's strong arm, mobility, and leadership qualities give him a solid foundation to build upon. If he can refine his decision-making and accuracy at the NFL level, he could eventually elevate himself to red or even blue chip status.

Darius Alexander - Wide Receiver (Orange Chip Projection)

Darius Alexander joins the Giants with an orange chip projection, suggesting the team believes they've found a quality starter in the third round. At 25 years old, Alexander is more physically mature than most rookies, which could help him contribute immediately.

Alexander's route-running ability and sure hands make him a potential reliable target for the Giants' passing game. While his ceiling may not be as high as some younger prospects, his floor appears to be that of a solid NFL contributor.

Cam Scatabo - Running Back (Orange Chip Projection)

Cam Scatabo enters the NFL with an orange chip projection, indicating the Giants believe they've found their running back of the future. Scatabo's vision, contact balance, and receiving ability make him a well-rounded prospect with the potential to become a three-down back.

While he may begin the season in a committee approach, Scatabo has the tools to eventually take over as the Giants' lead back. His ability to contribute in both the running and passing game should make him a valuable piece of the offense for years to come.

Marcus Bo - Offensive Line (Orange Chip Projection)

Marcus Bo rounds out the Giants' orange chip rookie projections, with the team believing they've found a future starter on the offensive line. Bo's athleticism, technique, and football IQ give him the potential to develop into a quality NFL lineman.

While Bo may need some time to adjust to the NFL level, his potential to play multiple positions along the line adds to his value. If he can continue to develop his strength and refine his technique, Bo could become a cornerstone of the Giants' offensive line for years to come.

Thomas Fidoni and Corey Black - Rookies (Green Chip)

Thomas Fidoni and Corey Black enter the NFL as developmental prospects, earning them green chip designations. While their long-term potential remains unknown, both players will have the opportunity to earn roles on special teams and potentially work their way into larger contributions on offense and defense, respectively.

Conclusion

As the New York Giants prepare for the 2025 NFL season, this color-coded evaluation of their roster provides insight into the team's strengths, weaknesses, and potential for growth. With a solid core of blue and red chip players, complemented by a mix of established veterans and promising young talent, the Giants appear poised to compete in the NFC East.

The development of purple chip players and the impact of the rookie class will be crucial factors in determining the team's success in 2025 and beyond. If key players can take the next step in their development and the coaching staff can maximize the talent on the roster, the Giants could find themselves in playoff contention and potentially challenge for a division title.

As training camp approaches and the season draws near, all eyes will be on how this talented but unproven roster comes together. The potential is there for a breakout season, but as always in the NFL, potential must be translated into on-field results. Giants fans have reason for optimism, but the true test will come when the team takes the field in September.

Article created from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fNc4lJBg-Cc