The New York Giants have a much different feel ahead of the 2026 regular season compared to the atmosphere around the team just a year ago. With the new regime led by Super Bowl-winning head coach John Harbaugh in place, many are expecting Big Blue to turn into contenders in the years ahead.
However, following the high-profile change at head coach and a strong offseason that has changed the identity of the team, some expect the Giants to compete this year. ESPN’s Rich Eisen released his top five sleeper teams and had the Giants at the No. 2 spot on his list.
“Number 2 on the list, I’m buying into this hype too. The Giants. The G-Men, The G-Men. Their schedule is pretty brutal, but John Harbaugh is coming into town; you know that’s going to plus
this team up on the spot. Defensively, they’re really good, they’ll get after you. Just, let’s keep the quarterback out of the big blue tent," he said.
Eisen is clearly a big believer in the effect Harbaugh is going to have on the team. Harbaugh brought over familiar faces in tight end Isaiah Likely and fullback Patrick Ricard, who are going to have a positive impact on the offense from the jump. The Giants also brought back Jermaine Eluemunor and added Francis Mauigoa in the draft, which should help the offense as well.
With Malik Nabers and Cam Skattebo coming back from injury, the Giants have the potential to improve in a big way on offense.
Looking back to last season, the Giants had trouble closing out games. Many believe that was more of an indictment on the defensive coordinator, so this is another area where the new regime may have an immediate impact this season.
The Giants have been itching to get back to being contenders in the NFC East. However, the division continues to be a very competitive one heading into the 2026 season.
The Giants will have to stay healthy and improve on both sides of the ball to fight for a playoff spot this season. The improved roster and new coaching staff have many believing in what the Giants can do in 2026.
This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: Rich Eisen sees Giants as major sleeper under John Harbaugh in 2026
