Despite a 2-9 mark while riding a seven-game losing streak, there are a few things New York Giants fans can be thankful for.
It’s been a rough three years for New York Giants fans. Since the start of the 2017 season, the Giants have a record of 10-33, and with a loss to the Green Bay Packers on Sunday, they’ll clinch their third-consecutive double-digit loss season. The last time the Giants had three consecutive double-digit loss seasons was from 1978 to 1980.
There’s little for fans to be optimistic about regarding their team. But since it’s Thanksgiving, here are three things Giants fans can be thankful for:
Rookie sensations Daniel Jones and Darius Slayton
The season hasn’t been a complete failure for the Giants as two of their rookies, Daniel Jones and Darius Slayton, have had productive seasons and will only get better as their careers progress.
There were concerns about how long it would take for the Giants to find an adequate successor to Eli Manning, but Dave Gettleman found the right man to lead the Giants for the remainder of 2019 and beyond.
In his nine games as a starter, he’s already set the franchise rookie record for completions with 208 and has shown pinpoint accuracy, poise and toughness. Now, he does need to do a much better job of ball security, as he has lost 10 fumbles on the season, but that issue should be fixed as he works on his pocket presence.
The other rookie that is taking the league by storm is fifth-round pick Darius Slayton. Not only is Slayton the fastest of the Giants receivers, but he has quickly developed into a precise route-runner. His five touchdown receptions lead the team, as does his 14.9 yards per reception.
The 2019 season has been another disastrous season, but Jones and Slayton will be two of the players that will help get the Giants back on the right path for many years to come.
Chase Young could be a Giant in 2020
The Giants are on pace to have a top-five pick in the NFL Draft, as they’re currently tied for the second-worst record in the league. The benefit of showcasing a terrible record is that you’re able to draft one of the top college prospects.
There are a number of talented players that are going to be available at the top of next year’s draft. But nobody would be a better fit for the Giants than Ohio State Buckeye junior defensive end Chase Young.
Young is the best defensive player in college and is an elite pass rusher that can finally give the Giants defense a player that opposing offenses fear. Young has put up 16.5 sacks and seven forced fumbles. He would make an immediate impact on the team and a candidate for Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2020.
There are only five games remaining
Mercifully, there are only five games remaining in the season for fans to endure. After the season finale against the Philadelphia Eagles on Dec. 29, the Giants’ front office can focus on preparing for the 2020 season, one in which fans hope will be better than the previous three seasons.