Report reveals Giants ‘likely’ to trade up for No. 1 pick to select top QB prospect

One quarterback seemingly made a strong impression on the New York Giants during last week’s 2025 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis.

In a story published Tuesday, ESPN’s Jordan Raanan reported the Giants and other talent evaluators throughout the league believe Miami’s Cam Ward has separated himself as the class’ QB1.

Raanan also indicated the Giants are considering trading up from pick No. 3 to land Ward (6-foot-2, 219 pounds). 

“The best way [to find a QB] is by trading for the top pick,” wrote Raanan. “Multiple league sources left their meetings with the Giants this week thinking a trade for the No. 1 pick with the Tennessee Titans was likely. In that scenario, they expected it to be for Miami’s Cam Ward.”

ESPN’s Jordan Reid has this scenario playing out in his latest mock draft. 

“Ward is the top QB of the class,” wrote Reid. “His combination of physical ability, improvisational skills and poise in big moments makes him an ideal selection for coach Brian Daboll. His 88.7 QBR was second in the FBS, and his 29 completions of 20-plus air yards tied for fifth.”  

Even if they draft Ward, the Giants may sign a bridge QB in free agency. SNY’s Connor Hughes recently tweeted the Giants are targeting Pittsburgh Steelers QB Russell Wilson and Minnesota Vikings QB Sam Darnold. Hughes wrote, “Wilson is viewed as the most likely outcome.”

The Giants also better ensure they don’t give up too much in a trade package for the No. 1 pick. 

Before the 2023 NFL Draft, the Carolina Panthers dealt wide receiver DJ Moore, two first-rounders and two second-rounders to move up to No. 1 and select QB Bryce Young out of Alabama.

The trade left Carolina unable to surround Young — who went 6-22 in his first two seasons — with weapons.

A QB with Ward’s skill set could still reinvigorate New York. The Giants have made just two playoff appearances since winning Super Bowl XLVI in the 2011-12 season.