The New York Football Giants Top Draft Picks

Since their inception in 1925, the New York Giants have had a rich and storied history in the NFL, marked by several legendary players who were drafted by the team. These draft picks have not only shaped the franchise but have also left an indelible mark on the sport itself. Here, we delve into some of the best draft selections the Giants have made over the years, highlighting their impact both on the field and in the annals of football history.

Lawrence Taylor - 1981 NFL Draft, 2nd Overall Pick

Perhaps the most iconic draft pick in Giants history, Lawrence Taylor was selected second overall in the 1981 NFL Draft. Known simply as "L.T.," Taylor revolutionized the linebacker position with his speed, agility, and ferocity. His impact was immediate; he won Defensive Rookie of the Year, followed by a Defensive Player of the Year award in his sophomore season. Over his career, Taylor earned three Defensive Player of the Year awards and was instrumental in leading the Giants to two Super Bowl victories. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1999 was a given, but his selection by the Giants remains one of the most pivotal moments in franchise history.

Phil Simms - 1979 NFL Draft, 7th Overall Pick

Before there was Eli, there was Phil Simms, taken in the first round of the 1979 NFL Draft. Simms, known for his precision passing and leadership, became the quarterback who would lead the Giants to their first Super Bowl win in Super Bowl XXI. In that game, he threw for 268 yards and was named MVP. His career with the Giants spanned 15 seasons, during which he was a key figure in one of the team's most successful eras. Simms' ability to manage games and perform under pressure cemented his legacy as one of the greatest Giants draft picks.

Frank Gifford - 1952 NFL Draft, 1st Overall Pick

Frank Gifford, drafted first overall in 1952, was a versatile athlete who could play multiple positions, including halfback, wide receiver, and defensive back. His adaptability and skill made him a standout player throughout his 12-year career with the Giants. Gifford was a Pro Bowl selection eight times and played a significant role in the Giants' 1956 NFL Championship win. His contributions to the team and his later career in broadcasting further highlight his enduring impact.

Eli Manning - 2004 NFL Draft, Traded for 1st Overall Pick

Though not directly drafted by the Giants, Eli Manning's arrival to the team via a draft-day trade with the San Diego Chargers is legendary. The Giants traded Philip Rivers (whom they had drafted) to the Chargers for Manning. This move paid off spectacularly as Eli led the Giants to two Super Bowl victories against the then-undefeated New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLII and Super Bowl XLVI, earning MVP honors in both. His clutch performances, especially the famous "Helmet Catch" game, have etched his name into Giants lore.

Sam Huff - 1956 NFL Draft, 30th Overall Pick

Drafted in the third round of the 1956 NFL Draft, Sam Huff became one of the most famous linebackers of his time. Known for his tackling prowess and leadership on defense, Huff was part of the Giants' championship team in 1956. His hard-hitting style and vocal presence on the field earned him five Pro Bowl selections. Huff's influence extended beyond his play, as he was one of the first players to gain fame through television, particularly via CBS's "The Violent World of Sam Huff" documentary.

Harry Carson - 1976 NFL Draft, 91st Overall Pick

Selected in the fourth round, Harry Carson's impact on the Giants was profound. Playing from 1976 to 1988, Carson was a cornerstone of the Giants' defense, earning nine Pro Bowl nods and contributing significantly to the team's Super Bowl XXI victory. His leadership and tenacity in the middle of the defense made him one of the best draft picks in team history, culminating in his induction into the Hall of Fame in 2006.

Michael Strahan - 1993 NFL Draft, 40th Overall Pick

Michael Strahan, taken in the second round of the 1993 draft, became one of the most dominant defensive ends in NFL history. His record-setting 22.5 sacks in the 2001 season and his relentless pursuit on the field were pivotal in the Giants' Super Bowl XLII win. Strahan's durability, playing in nearly all games during his career, and his community involvement off the field, further underscore his selection as one of the best draft picks for the Giants. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2014.

Roosevelt Brown - 1953 NFL Draft, 321st Overall Pick

A 27th-round pick in an era of numerous draft rounds, Roosevelt "Rosey" Brown was a foundational piece of the Giants' offensive line. He played from 1953 to 1965, earning nine Pro Bowl selections. Brown's ability to protect the quarterback and open running lanes was crucial in the Giants' championship runs in the 1950s. His induction into the Hall of Fame in 1975 speaks volumes about his underappreciated draft status and monumental impact on the game.

Odell Beckham Jr. - 2014 NFL Draft, 12th Overall Pick

Odell Beckham Jr. burst onto the scene with one of the most memorable catches in NFL history during his rookie year. His electric playmaking ability, highlighted by his speed, route-running, and acrobatic catches, made him an instant fan favorite. Despite a tumultuous relationship with the team leading to his trade in 2019, Beckham's early years with the Giants were filled with standout performances and Pro Bowl appearances, marking him as a significant draft pick in recent history.

The New York Giants have had a knack for selecting players who not only excel on the field but also define eras of football. From the game-changing defense of Lawrence Taylor to the clutch performances of Eli Manning, these draft picks have not just contributed to the team's success but have also shaped the narrative of football itself. While the draft is inherently unpredictable, these selections stand out as some of the most successful, illustrating the Giants' historical prowess in identifying and nurturing talent. Each player brought something unique to the team, leaving a legacy that fans and analysts alike will continue to celebrate for years to come.