In Todd McShay’s second mock of 2026, the Giants reportedly target Ohio State safety Caleb Downs at No. 5, bypassing traditional positional value in favor of a potential elite building block. The pick would put longtime safeties Jevon Holland and Tyler Nubin on notice, even after Schoen’s earlier investments at the position.
McShay argues Downs would bring immediate stability, leadership, and playmaking to a back end that struggled to meet expectations in 2025. He notes that while Holland was a high-cost addition and Nubin a 2024 draft pick, neither performed at a level sufficient to cement their spots in 2026 under the current regime.
Performance details in the report underscore the concerns. Holland appeared in 14 games and delivered solid run defense and tackling grades, but his coverage numbers were middling (allowing a 93.9 passer rating). Nubin posted the weaker year, with a 119.5 passer rating (second-worst among Giants defenders), two receiving touchdowns allowed, and poor tackling and run defense grades, raising questions about the safety depth chart.
The article situates the debate within Schoen’s broader tenure and Harbaugh’s growing influence. Schoen’s prior moves—re-signing Holland for $45.3 million and drafting Nubin in the second round—haven’t produced the expected impact, prompting a potential shift if Downs is added to the roster. Harbaugh’s track record in Baltimore—where he used first-round picks on safeties and other premium players—adds intrigue to the possibility of prioritizing safety at No. 5.
Beyond Downs, McShay argues the Giants could still address premium needs later in the draft. He suggests keeping the top pick flexible for offensive line or receiver depth, while targeting a potential difference-maker at WR in Round 2 to pair with Malik Nabers. He also notes the class’s depth could allow the Giants to find a starter at the line or at another position later without sacrificing other priorities.
In summary, McShay’s Downs scenario highlights a potentially newsworthy shift for the Giants’ top pick, driven by Harbaugh’s preferred approach and the desire for back-end stability. Whether the Giants opt for Downs or another route, the selection at No. 5 will help define the early trajectory of Schoen’s continued rebuild and Harbaugh’s imprint on the franchise.
