Giants Draft Blunder: Win Over Raiders Likely Costs Team Top Pick, GM Schoen Set to Return

The New York Giants won a football game Sunday. Their 34-10 victory came against the Las Vegas Raiders. It was their first win in ten games. The triumph likely cost them the first overall pick in the upcoming NFL draft.More significant news emerged about the team’s future. Reports indicate General Manager Joe Schoen is likely to remain in charge. This comes despite a dismal record over the past two seasons. The organization appears poised for continuity at the top.

Front Office Stability Amid On-Field Chaos

An NFL Network report broke the news before kickoff. It stated Schoen is “likely to remain with the team for the draft.” League sources confirmed the direction to the Daily News. Schoen is already preparing for the offseason as if he will return.He is conducting head coaching interviews. He continues to lead the team’s scouting process. This decision is jarring for a frustrated fanbase. Schoen’s record is 6-27 since the start of the 2024 season. His overall record is 21-45-1 in four years.

The Cost of a Meaningless Victory

Sunday’s win had immediate consequences. The Giants entered the game tied with the Raiders for the league’s worst record. Victory flipped their draft destiny. ESPN Analytics now gives New York only a 20% chance at the No. 1 pick.The Raiders now have an 80% chance to select first overall. That pick could be used on a franchise-changing quarterback. The Giants, meanwhile, may have played themselves out of that opportunity. They must now hope for a specific Week 18 scenario to get the top selection.The game itself featured unexpected heroes. Cornerback Deonte Banks sealed the win with a 95-yard kickoff return. Rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart ran for two touchdowns. The defense intercepted Raiders quarterback Geno Smith twice.

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The Giants’ path forward is now unclear. Winning may have soothed pride temporarily. But the potential Giants draft fallout could haunt the franchise for years. Their future remains deeply uncertain.

Info at your fingertips

Did the Giants tank for the number one pick?

No, they did not. The team played to win and succeeded. Their victory over the Raiders, who were actively resting key players, directly reduced their odds of securing the top draft selection. The players and interim coach competed hard for the win.

Who will the Giants take if they get the first pick?

Reports suggest they would evaluate all options. This includes looking at top quarterback prospect Fernando Mendoza. The team already drafted Jaxson Dart in the first round last year. A high pick could also be traded for multiple assets to rebuild the roster.

Is Joe Schoen definitely coming back as GM?

Multiple reports indicate he is likely to return. Sources say he is acting as if he will lead the upcoming draft and coaching search. This is despite his poor win-loss record over the past four seasons with the organization.

Why were the Raiders so easy to beat?

Las Vegas appeared to be tanking. They shut down their best player, Maxx Crosby, and tight end Brock Bowers before the game. This strategic loss improves their own odds of securing the number one overall draft pick in April.

What do the Giants need most in the draft?

Their roster has numerous holes. While quarterback is a question, the offensive line and defensive playmakers are major needs. Holding a very high pick, even if not first, allows them to select an elite talent or trade down for more selections.