Giants Squad Show: Joe Schoen on the Draft, Dexter Lawrence and More
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The Giants Squad Show dives deep into the New York Giants' offseason activities, led by GM Joe Schoen's pre-draft presser and the team's strategic direction ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft. Key topics include the ongoing Dexter Lawrence contract impasse, with hosts debating whether the player's public stance hurt his case, and the Giants' potential to stay at pick No. 5 or trade down—though consensus leans toward staying if a top-tier talent like a cornerback or linebacker is available. The discussion highlights the team’s defensive identity under coach Mike Harbaugh, emphasizing interior defensive line depth with visits from players like DJ Reader and Tremaine Edmonds. The hosts also analyze the Giants’ top 30 draft visits, expressing strong interest in LSU’s Mansour Delane and other defensive backs, while questioning the value of the draft visit system. Off the field, the signing of veteran QB Brandon Allen is seen as a low-impact move for depth, with the focus remaining on developing young talent. The episode closes with insights from Brian Burns on the team’s intense strength and conditioning program and a streamlined defensive scheme designed for faster, more fluid play. The overarching theme is the Giants’ methodical rebuild, balancing immediate needs—especially at cornerback and interior defense—with long-term roster construction. Hosts express cautious optimism, noting the team’s improved culture and preparation under Harbaugh, but remain skeptical about high-impact moves without clear on-field results. The draft is seen as a pivotal moment for the franchise’s future, with the team’s decisions likely to define their competitiveness in the coming seasons.
The Giants are likely to stay at pick No. 5 unless a top-tier player they love is unavailable.
Cornerback is the most pressing need, with Mansour Delane and others high on the radar.
The team is prioritizing interior defensive line depth, with visits to DJ Reader and Tremaine Edmonds signaling a focus on stopping the run.
Strength and conditioning under Harbaugh is being emphasized early, signaling a shift toward physicality and competitiveness.
The draft visit list reveals strategic interest in defensive backs and linebackers, but not all visits will result in picks.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Welcome & Intro to the Squad Show
Host Patricia Trena welcomes listeners to the Giants Squad Show, introducing the panel and setting the stage for a deep dive into the Giants' offseason moves, including the draft, player contracts, and team culture.
Dexter Lawrence Contract Situation & GM's Message
“He said we're going to expand all the options. We're going to do this. What he's saying is basically, we're going to make sure this team is still stable when we do trade you or get rid of you.”
Draft Strategy: Stay at #5 or Trade Down?
“I'm fine with it. Screw positional value. I think we're, we're kind of approaching a time where teams might be saying, you know what? I'm just going to take a great football player.”
Top 30 Draft Visits & Player Evaluation
“I like it. I wish they would make that happen because the Giants do need a legit corner.”
Defensive Line Depth & Interior Strategy
The discussion centers on the Giants’ focus on building a dominant interior defensive line, with visits to DJ Reader and Tremaine Edmonds seen as signs of a long-term plan. The hosts emphasize the importance of stopping the run and freeing up edge rushers.
“The draft class to me, the strength of draft class is irrelevant. But hey, if a person likes another person at this particular spot, that's all that counts.”
“I'm fine with it. Screw positional value. I think we're, we're kind of approaching a time where teams might be saying, you know what? I'm just going to take a great football player.”
“He said we're going to expand all the options. We're going to do this. What he's saying is basically, we're going to make sure this team is still stable when we do trade you or get rid of you.”
Hosts
Guests
New York Giants
other
Dexter Lawrence
person
Brandon Olson
person
Mark Collins
person
Patricia Trena
person
Joe Schoen
person
Mike Harbaugh
person
Brian Burns
person
DJ Reader
person
Brandon Allen
person
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