The New York Giants execute a savvy trade-down from No. 2 overall, leveraging the premium value of their pick amid a quarterback frenzy, in the latest mock draft from The Athletic’s Dane Brugler.
With Jaxson Dart established as their starter and a new head coach on the horizon, general manager Joe Schoen prioritizes asset accumulation to fortify the roster.
The Las Vegas Raiders, desperate for a signal-caller, leapfrog the New Orleans Saints to No. 2.
Per the Fitzgerald-Spielberger NFL draft trade value chart, the move from No. 4 costs 352 value points — equivalent to the Raiders’ fourth pick plus a mid-second-round selection in 2027. Bidding wars among QB-needy teams like the Cleveland Browns and others often yield even richer hauls for sellers.
Sliding to No. 4, New York targets Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate, whose crisp route-running and 6-foot-3 frame create a lethal tandem with Malik Nabers.
I didn’t expect Tate to be this high when I started this exercise, but it speaks to the unpredictability of this year’s top 10.
The Buckeyes pass catcher is impressively detailed as a route runner, especially on vertical patterns, and his length and focus make him a ball winner at the catch point. Tate would complement Malik Nabers really well and reflect the Giants’ desire to surround their young quarterback, Jaxson Dart, with more help.
This duo promises explosive plays for Dart, accelerating the Giants’ rebuild without forcing another early quarterback investment.
