The New York Giants were evidently aiming to find their next franchise quarterback in this draft, with a particular focus on selecting Drake Maye. To improve their chances of landing Maye, they needed to trade up from their No. 6 overall pick.
On “Hard Knocks,” general manager Joe Schoen took the initiative to potentially move up in the draft. He discussed with assistant general manager Brandon Brown about approaching the New England Patriots at the NFL Scouting Combine to start trade negotiations. The Patriots held the No. 3 pick.
“I’m just going to go down there and say ‘hey’ before you do anything at three, just make sure you let us know,” Schoen told Brown. “Just plant a seed if you are going to move the pick. Don’t do it without at least giving us a call. We’re interested.”
The Patriots had indicated they were open to trading the pick and were also interested in Maye. Schoen approached Patriots Director of Player Personnel Eliot Wolf to initiate trade discussions.
“If you guys are going to do anything at three,” Schoen told Wolf, “like move out — you don’t have to tell me your plan or anything — but if you have any inkling, just call me.”
Reportedly, the Giants offered their 2024 first-round pick (No. 6) and their 2025 first-round pick for the No. 3 overall pick, but the Patriots declined. New England ultimately selected Maye, while New York stayed at No. 6 and chose Malik Nabers.
The Giants’ interest in Maye was evident, despite having a $40 million quarterback in Daniel Jones. While Jones will have the opportunity to maintain his role as the franchise quarterback this year, it’s clear that the Giants are already planning for the future beyond 2025.