The 2026 NFL Draft isn't set to take place until April 23, but fans are convinced they already know who the New York Giants are selecting with the No. 5 overall pick.
The Giants have already made a notable splash this offseason, hiring John Harbaugh as their head coach. He became their top target the moment he was fired by the Baltimore Ravens. After making some changes to their overall power structure, the G-Men were able to get a deal done.
"One of the most iconic franchises in all of sports. I wanted this job," Harbaugh said. "I think I told you that, Mr. Mara. I wanted this job. To be on the biggest stage in the biggest sport. I know the challenges, I understand the expectations, I know the fans are hungry for a winner. We're here with one mission: To become, to earn the right to be called the world champions in New York, and that's what we plan to do."
Harbaugh has already hired Chris Horton, Matt Nagy and Dennard Wilson as his coordinators for the 2026 season. As for the player personnel, it appears he wants a former Ohio State star on his roster.
New Giants Head Coach John Harbaugh speaks during a press conference welcoming Harbaugh at the Quest Diagnostics Training Center in East Rutherford on Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2025. © Julian Leshay Guadalupe/NorthJersey.com / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images.
Caleb Downs to New York?
During an appearance on Mike Francesa's podcast, Harbaugh revealed that he's a "big fan" of Ohio State safety Caleb Downs.
Although safeties don't often go in the top five, Harbaugh would be more than happy if the Giants draft Downs with the No. 5 pick.
"We favor Hall of Fame safeties, so if we have a chance to draft a potential future Hall of Fame safety in Caleb Downs, that would be just fine with me," Harbaugh said, via Pro Football Talk. "We'll take the best player. When you draft that high, you take the best player. It's not a need pick, it's a best player pick because you're going for the guy that's going to be that kind of player. You're talking about a player that you would like to see someday wearing a gold jacket if possible."
Downs, a two-time All-American, had 257 tackles, 12 pass breakups, six interceptions and three forced fumbles during his college career. We'll see if he ends up on the Giants in April.
Copyright The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved