As we eagerly await the full release of the New York Giants' 2026 schedule, it's the perfect time to look ahead at which players could be poised for a major leap. Every championship-caliber team needs internal development, and the Giants are counting on several key figures to elevate their game. Here are five breakout candidates who could define the team's future.
Tyler Nubin, Safety
The 2024 second-round pick hasn't yet delivered the impact the Giants envisioned. In 26 NFL games, he has just three passes defensed and one forced fumble—a far cry from his college days at Minnesota, where he snagged 13 interceptions in 55 games, including five as a senior. His pre-draft athletic concerns have occasionally surfaced on the field, and his 2025 season was a step backward: a 16.9% missed tackle rate and a 119.5 passer rating when targeted. But was it truly Nubin's fault, or were scheme and coaching to blame under former defensive coordinator Shane Bowen? With new head coach John Harbaugh—who demands elite safety play—and defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson now in charge, Nubin has a fresh start. The Giants passed on Ohio State's Caleb Downs in the 2026 draft, signaling their belief that Nubin can still become the playmaker they drafted.
Abdul Carter, Edge Rusher
The No. 3 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft didn't have the rookie season many expected. Four sacks and off-field issues—missing meetings and sleeping through practices—raised eyebrows, and he didn't immediately remind anyone of Micah Parsons, the Penn State legend he was compared to. But don't write off Carter just yet. The underlying metrics tell a different story: he won a high percentage of pass-rush snaps and consistently disrupted backfields, even if the sack numbers didn't follow. According to TruMedia, Carter led all NFL rookies in pass-rush win rate in 2025. With a full offseason to mature and a defensive system that can maximize his talent, a Parsons-esque breakout in 2026 is very much on the table.
Evan Neal, Offensive Tackle
It's been a rocky road for the 2022 first-round pick, who has struggled with injuries and inconsistency. But 2026 represents a make-or-break year. Neal has shown flashes of the power and athleticism that made him a top-10 pick, and with a new offensive line coach and a more stable quarterback situation, he could finally live up to his potential. If he can stay healthy and refine his technique, Neal could anchor the right side of the line for years to come.
Jalin Hyatt, Wide Receiver
The speedster from Tennessee has been used mostly as a deep threat, but his route tree and target share have been limited. With the Giants' offense evolving and a need for playmakers, Hyatt's ability to stretch the field could be unlocked in a more creative scheme. If he can add a few more layers to his game—and the quarterback can get him the ball consistently—he's a candidate to double his production from 2025.
Dane Belton, Safety
Belton has been a rotational piece, but his versatility and nose for the ball make him an intriguing candidate for a larger role. With Harbaugh and Wilson's track record of developing defensive backs, Belton could thrive in a system that values hybrid safeties who can play in the box and cover. A strong training camp could see him emerge as a key contributor alongside Nubin.
The Giants are building for the future, and these five players have the talent and opportunity to turn potential into production. Keep an eye on them as we gear up for what promises to be an exciting 2026 season.