The New York Giants have endured a disastrous 2024 season, and the situation reached a new low this past Sunday. Following the Las Vegas Raiders’ upset victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars, the Giants now stand alone with the worst record in the NFL at 2-13. With just two games remaining, they are in a prime position to secure the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
The Giants’ struggles were made painfully clear in their 34-7 blowout loss to the Atlanta Falcons, a game that solidified their place at the bottom. New York’s defense, which had already been struggling all season, was completely overwhelmed by the Falcons’ offense, which started rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. in his first career game. Despite facing an inexperienced quarterback, the Giants’ defense failed to generate any stops. Meanwhile, the offense could do little to move the ball against a Falcons defense that had been subpar for much of the season.
With the team now focused on the 2025 NFL Draft, Giants fans are hoping for two more losses to ensure they lock in the top pick. However, the team’s troubles only deepened when quarterback Drew Lock suffered a shoulder injury during the game. The injury is still being evaluated, leaving the quarterback situation in flux for the final weeks of the season. According to Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team, Lock is undergoing an MRI to assess the damage, and his status remains uncertain heading into Week 17.
If Lock is unable to play, it’s likely that Timmy DeVito will start after clearing concussion protocol just before the Falcons game, with Tim Boyle serving as the backup. Given the underwhelming performances from all three quarterbacks, the Giants’ options don’t inspire much confidence—though this might be a blessing in disguise for fans who are more focused on securing the top draft pick than on improving the team’s win-loss record.
Lock struggled significantly in the loss to Atlanta, finishing 22-for-39 with 210 yards, a touchdown, and two interceptions. The Falcons’ defense actually outscored the Giants’ offense, as both of Lock’s interceptions were returned for touchdowns. The first pick-six, a poor read and throw by Lock, was returned by star safety Jessie Bates III. The second interception was tipped, but it still contributed to the mounting frustration for the Giants.
Looking ahead, the Giants’ final two matchups of the season present tough challenges. They will face the Indianapolis Colts in Week 17 and the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 18—two teams that should pose difficult tests for the Giants, regardless of who plays quarterback. With their playoff hopes long gone, the Giants’ focus has shifted entirely to the draft, hoping their remaining games will secure them a shot at selecting a top prospect in 2025.
