Massive Defensive Shakeup! Has the Giants Roster Really Improved?

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In this full episode of 2 Giants Goofballs: New York Giants News & Updates, Drew and Rob break down the current state of the Giants roster heading into the 2025 season, with a particular focus on the defense and special teams. The big question driving the episode: has this New York Giants team truly improved from last season? The hosts go position by position through the defense, highlighting key players, depth battles, and how new additions may impact the overall performance of the unit.

On the defensive line, the team continues to be anchored by All-Pro Dexter Lawrence, but there’s been a flurry of names added around him. Names like Chauncey Golston, Rakeem Nunez-Roches, and Roy Robertson-Harris stand out as rotational linemen who bring both experience and toughness. The episode explores how young players like Jordan Riley and DJ Davidson are developing, and whether undrafted options like Elijah Chatman or Timmy Horne have a realistic shot to crack the final roster.

At EDGE, the addition of Pro Bowler Brian Burns last year completely changed the look of the pass rush. Combined with Kayvon Thibodeaux and star rookie Abdul Carter, the Giants now possess one of the most exciting edge rotations in the NFL. Rob and Drew debate how deep the group really is, especially when factoring in role players like Tomon Fox and Victor Dimukeje.

The linebacker group returns Bobby Okereke and Micah McFadden, who both played key roles last season, but the rest of the room is in flux. Darrius Muasau, Chris Board, Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles, and Ty Summers will compete for rotational and special teams roles, while Dyontae Johnson is a player to keep an eye on.

The secondary is full of fresh faces and intriguing talent. At cornerback, Deonte Banks returns, joined by former Saint Paulson Adebo, slot specialist Cor’Dale Flott, and athletic depth pieces like Art Green, Greg Stroman Jr., and Tre Hawkins III. The safety group features a new leader in former Dolphin Jevon Holland to start alongside Tyler Nubin, while returning pieces like Dane Belton and Anthony Johnson Jr. round out a group with both starting potential and quality depth.

On special teams, Graham Gano is back to reclaim his role as kicker after injury derailed his 2024 season. Jude Atamney provides insurance behind him. Jamie Gillan remains locked in as punter and holder, with Casey Kreiter again snapping. Return duties are expected to be handled by Ihmir Smith-Marsette and Eric Gray, both of whom offer explosiveness and reliability.

Throughout the episode, Drew and Rob weigh whether this 2025 version of the Giants has enough firepower, depth, and improvement across all three phases to make a leap from last season’s performance. They consider how these new pieces fit into the bigger picture of the team’s direction and whether Joe Schoen has finally built a roster that can compete in the NFC East and push for a playoff spot.

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