Giants GM Joe Schoen says drafting quarterback “not mandatory” with No. 3 pick
New York Giants general manager Joe Schoen indicated the team isn’t locked into selecting a quarterback with the No. 3 overall pick in next week’s NFL draft.
Schoen told reporters during Wednesday’s press conference that drafting a quarterback is “not mandatory” after the team signed veterans Jameis Winston and Russell Wilson this offseason.
The Giants’ flexibility opens possibilities for other prospects, including Colorado’s Travis Hunter.
Schoen expressed confidence in Hunter’s ability to play both wide receiver and cornerback at the NFL level, contradicting analysts who believe the Heisman Trophy winner must choose one position.
“I would not be afraid to play him on both sides,” Schoen said, per ESPN’s Jordan Raanan. “Physically, I wouldn’t doubt the kid.”
Hunter dominated college football last season with 1,152 receiving yards, 11 touchdowns, 11 passes defended and four interceptions. His performance earned him the Heisman Trophy, AP College Football Player of the Year, and Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year awards.
Two-way players remain extremely rare in the modern NFL. Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, Hunter’s college coach at Colorado, occasionally played receiver but primarily focused on cornerback and return duties during his career.
Sanders recorded more than 10 receptions only once in his NFL career, catching 36 passes for 475 yards in 1996.
The Giants face several roster needs beyond quarterback, including playmakers on offense, secondary help, and offensive line reinforcements. Hunter could potentially address multiple areas while the team continues its search for Eli Manning’s long-term successor.
Many draft analysts have linked the Giants to Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders, though the team could also target a quarterback later in the draft.
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Giants GM Joe Schoen on Travis Hunter:
“I would not be afraid to play him on both sides. … Physically, I wouldn’t doubt the kid.”
Giants have the third pick. Travis Hunter would seem to be in serious consideration if he’s still on the board.
— Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan) April 16, 2025
