The New York Giants addressed several needs in the 2026 NFL draft but still require depth in the interior defensive line and safety positions. Seven top free-agent fits are available to help fill these gaps.
Key points
New York Giants added versatility at linebacker in the draft
They improved depth along the offensive line
A physical cornerback was drafted for the secondary
A sizable wide receiver was added to the passing attack
The team still needs interior defensive line and safety depth
New York Giants
7 best available free-agent fits for New York Giants after NFL draft
During the 2026 NFL draft, the New York Giants added versatility at linebacker, bolstered depth along the offensive line, drafted a physical cornerback in the secondary, and brought in a sizable wide receiver to complement their passing attack.
They also added depth at multiple positions with a trio of sixth-round picks. However, significant gaps remain. The team still needs more interior defensive line depth after the trade of Dexter Lawrence, and the safety position, which went entirely unaddressed during the draft.
Here are the seven best remaining free agent fits for the New York Giants.
Dallas Cowboys (home, away)
Washington Commanders (home, away)
Philadelphia Eagles (home, away)
Q&A
What positions do the New York Giants need to fill after the 2026 NFL draft?
The Giants need more depth in the interior defensive line and at the safety position.
Who are the best available free agents for the New York Giants?
The article lists seven top free-agent fits for the Giants to consider.
What did the New York Giants accomplish in the 2026 NFL draft?
They added versatility at linebacker, improved the offensive line, drafted a cornerback, and acquired a wide receiver.
Why is interior defensive line depth important for the New York Giants?
Interior defensive line depth is crucial for the Giants, especially after the trade of Dexter Lawrence.
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DT D.J. Reader
The Giants met with Reader ahead of the draft and will circle back around to him next week. Expectations are that he will be signed, joining a defensive tackle rotation that will be constructed to replace Dexter Lawrence, who was traded to the Cincinnati Bengals.
Reader is a veteran run-stuffer at the nose tackle position, and will provide the Giants a savvy, cost-effective option. But he won't be the only one signed.
It remains unclear if Calais Campbell will retire or if he will return in 2026. If he opts to play, the Arizona Cardinals will be in play for his services, but the Giants could also make a strong push. They would like to add three (or even four) veteran defensive tackles to provide adequate depth and enough bodies to keep the rotation rested going into the fourth quarter. Even at age 40, Campbell is arguably the best defensive tackle available.
Another option at defensive tackle is DaQuan Jones, a New York native with 167 career games of experience. He can rotate in at nose tackle and play either defensive end position in a 3-4 defense, adding potential versatility for the Giants. He's very athletic for his size (6-foot-4, 320 pounds).
CB L'Jarius Sneed
The Giants added a potential CB2 in Colton Hood during the draft, but they remain somewhat thin at the position. L'Jarius Sneed had a rough go in Tennessee, but his familiarity with defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson could be considered a benefit. He would provide the Giants with veteran depth options and likely come at a team-friendly price.
The Giants passed on Caleb Downs in the draft and could still use an upgrade at safety. Donovan Wilson may not fit the exact style John Harbaugh likes to employ, but he is a split-field player who can step up in the box, stop the run, and cover tight ends over the middle of the field. His versatility makes him an intriguing option.
After sniffing around running backs during the first wave of free agency and then visiting with some prospects ahead of the draft, the Giants have come up blank. They would still like to add another back into the fold ahead of training camp, and despite suffering a torn Achilles last season and a minor eye injury after a "fireworks mishap," Harris insists he'll be ready for Week 1. Given his recent injury history, he's likely to sign for the veteran minimum and could be a sneaky add for the Giants.
The Giants worked out Odell Beckham Jr. ahead of the draft and came away impressed with his speed and conditioning. While they did add Malachi Fields in Round 3, the possibility of a reunion remains. Head coach John Harbaugh will speak with OBJ again this coming Tuesday to determine if he has a role and then move forward from there. The addition of Fields should not preclude the Giants from signing Beckham, since they are very different players.
