The New York Giants faced a tumultuous 2024 season marked by several critical missteps that shaped their disappointing performance. Among these, the decision to part ways with star running back Saquon Barkley stands out. Despite financial constraints making a long-term deal unfeasible, his leadership qualities and on-field impact were sorely missed once he left the team. The Giants struggled to fill the void in leadership, which was evident amidst a season filled with injuries and inconsistent play.
Another glaring error was the failure to strengthen the offensive line, notably by not drafting any new talent in this area. Their reliance on the previous year's lineup failed to yield positive results, particularly when injuries struck key players like Andrew Thomas and Evan Neal. The absence of depth forced the Giants to implement multiple line combinations, leading to a lack of cohesion and effectiveness up front.
The Giants also failed to adequately address their defensive line depth, particularly following the departure of Leonard Williams. While Dexter Lawrence remained a standout, the lack of supporting talent meant that opposing offenses could easily target him. The decision not to pursue veteran talent in this area left the Giants vulnerable.
Finally, the management of the quarterback position proved detrimental. The Giants neglected to draft a quarterback in a rich 2024 class, leaving them without a reliable backup plan after Daniel Jones’s underwhelming performance. With the pressure to find a franchise quarterback mounting, the Giants' oversight in this critical area could haunt them for years to come.
