Optimism Surrounds Giants Ahead of 2025 Season Following Disastrous 2024
After a historically poor 2024 season, there’s a renewed sense of hope surrounding the New York Giants. Much of the buzz centers on rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart, who many believe could be the team’s future franchise leader. But it’s not just the offense turning heads — the Giants’ defense is also drawing significant attention, especially after the selection of linebacker Abdul Carter with the No. 3 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Considered by some the top talent in the draft class, Carter joins an already stacked defensive front that includes Brian Burns, Kayvon Thibodeaux, and Dexter Lawrence.
Even before adding Carter, New York’s defense looked formidable on paper. Now, with his inclusion, the unit has the potential to be one of the league’s most dominant. That potential is reflected in Pro Football Focus’ projections, which remain bullish on the Giants’ defensive capabilities heading into the new season.
Burns and Carter Highlight Giants’ Defensive Firepower
Pro Football Focus recently spotlighted both Brian Burns and Abdul Carter among the league’s best pass rushers. The duo is expected to wreak havoc on opposing offenses, with Carter bringing elite college production and Burns entering his prime. Analyst Ryan Smith ranked Burns as the 16th-best pass rusher for 2025, noting his impactful first year in New York.
- Brian Burns
Burns’ debut season with the Giants was impressive,” Smith wrote. “He earned a career-high 79.2 PFF grade, backed by an 82.9 pass-rush grade and 61 total pressures — both second-best in his career.”
Burns ended the year with 8.5 sacks, 42 tackles, and two forced fumbles — solidifying his value as a key defensive piece. Meanwhile, Carter, despite being a rookie, was ranked 20th overall by Smith, signaling sky-high expectations even before he plays a single down in the NFL.
Carter’s college performance at Penn State drew frequent comparisons to Micah Parsons. Over three seasons, he amassed 11 sacks before exploding in his final year with 12 sacks, 68 tackles, and two forced fumbles — a campaign that cemented him as college football’s premier defender.
Pass Rush Duo Offers Bright Spot in Giants’ Rebuild
While expectations for the Giants remain modest following a 3-14 finish and with their NFC East rivals strengthening, the pairing of Burns and Carter offers genuine hope. Even if a playoff push is unlikely, the potential of this pass-rushing tandem gives Giants fans a reason to be optimistic as the team continues its rebuild in 2025.
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