The New York Giants selected a transformative defensive star in the 2025 NFL Draft with their first-round pick of Abdul Carter.

Carter, often compared to Micah Parsons for his exceptional pass-rushing potential, has the ability to become the Giants' most influential defender since Lawrence Taylor, which is the ultimate accolade for any player in a Giants uniform.

This is no exaggeration; Carter possesses immense talent and game-altering potential, particularly alongside teammates like Brian Burns, Kayvon Thibodeaux, and Dexter Lawrence.

According to a recent 2026 NFL mock draft, the Giants could add another dominant force in the first round: Ohio State safety Caleb Downs.

NFL Spin Zone projects the Giants picking fourth overall and selecting Downs, whom many draft experts consider the top talent in next year's class, irrespective of position.

"If the Giants are drafting this high, they're in a tough spot," wrote NFL Spin Zone's Sayre Bedinger. "They have the roster talent to compete, but they need the Jaxson Dart pick to succeed. I'll assume they give Dart a year to prove himself. If Dart doesn't play much in 2025 and the team struggles, they might replace the GM and coach, positioning them for a quarterback. If the current leadership remains, they'll pick the best available player.

"Key factor this season: Properly evaluating Jaxson Dart. The regime traded up for him in the first round, so they must see what he can do. Unless Russell Wilson performs exceptionally, giving Dart at least six starts is essential."

If the Giants are picking in the top five again, major changes in management and coaching are probable. Even Jaxson Dart could be at risk, especially if a quarterback like Texas' Arch Manning enters the draft and is available.

However, if Dart performs well enough as a rookie to build confidence in the quarterback position for the 2026 regime, adding a player like Downs after Carter would be remarkably advantageous.

It's the kind of positive outcome every fan base dreams of from a difficult season, which is what it would take to secure a prospect of Caleb Downs' caliber.