The New York Giants’ secondary is young, inexperienced, but full of potential and positioned for a breakout. Despite their talent, the defensive backfield has struggled with consistency this season, potentially missing a key piece or two to become a formidable unit.
Strengthening the secondary will likely be a top priority for general manager Joe Schoen this offseason. Luckily, the 2025 free agency class is rich in secondary talent, including a standout safety who could elevate the Giants’ defense.
The Giants’ starting safety is solid, yet there’s room for improvement. Rookie second-round pick Tyler Nubin has been outstanding this season and looks to be a cornerstone for the future. However, veteran starter Jason Pinnock has had mixed performances and will become an unrestricted free agent this offseason.
If Pinnock departs, a gap would immediately appear in the Giants’ defense, a gap that could be filled — or even upgraded — if the Giants explore the top of the 2025 free agent market.
Miami Dolphins safety Jevon Holland, set to become an unrestricted free agent, might be a prime target for the Giants. Entering the prime of his career at 25 in 2025, Holland has had a breakout 2024 season and is highly sought after. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler and Matt Bowen ranked Holland as the No. 3 free agent for 2025, highlighting his “multidimensional traits”:
“Holland has the multidimensional traits that pro coaches look for at safety,” Bowen wrote. “He can play deep, cover in the slot, or act as a box defender. While splash plays have been fewer this season, Holland has recorded 5 interceptions, 13 pass breakups, 5 forced fumbles, and 5 sacks over his four years with Miami.”
Holland’s versatility could be invaluable for the Giants, offering a skillset similar to what they had in Xavier McKinney before his departure. Miami might face challenges in re-signing Holland, leaving him likely to reach the open market — and potentially high on New York’s list of targets.
According to Fowler, “People I’ve talked to compare Holland’s situation to that of Christian Wilkins, whose high market value forced Miami to let him go without a franchise tag. The early sense is Holland’s next contract will fall between Xavier McKinney’s four-year, $68 million deal with Green Bay and Antoine Winfield Jr.’s four-year, $84 million extension with Tampa Bay.”
Whether the Giants are prepared to make a significant investment in a top safety remains uncertain. They chose not to do so with McKinney in 2024, but after a challenging season, they might change course in 2025. Upgrading the secondary will be crucial, and Holland could be a transformative addition for the Giants.
