It’s time for the New York Giants to improve their defense ahead of training camp. Yes, the Giants addressed several roster needs through free agency and the draft this offseason, but a handful of defensive free agents remain available who could provide depth and competition heading into 2026.
While none of these players qualify as pressing additions, each could fill a specific role if the Giants wanted to round out their roster before training camp. They should. 

The most important takeaway from this offseason is that the Giants did a surprisingly effective job building out depth at key positions. Between pre-draft free agency, the draft itself, and moves made immediately after, New York covered most of its bases. Still, three names stand out as worthwhile considerations.

Greg Gaines could provide depth at DT

Defensive tackle remains the position with the most room for added competition. Greg Gaines, the 30-year-old former Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Los Angeles Rams interior lineman, has been a solid rotational piece throughout his career. He has logged three consecutive seasons with over 350 snaps and has played on strong defensive fronts in both Los Angeles and Tampa Bay.

The Giants could use some of that. 

Gaines wouldn’t serve as a direct replacement for anyone, but the Giants lost star defender Dexter Lawrence and then saw Roy Robertson-Harris go down with an Achilles injury during offseason workouts. There has not been a corresponding move to add another defensive tackle to the room since Robertson-Harris’ injury. Shelby Harris, D.J. Reader, and Leki Fotu should form a serviceable group, but if the Giants simply wanted one more experienced body for camp, Gaines fits the bill.

Kyle Van Noy could give Giants a veteran presence

This is the most compelling name on the list. Kyle Van Noy is 35 years old and would not start as part of the Giants’ pass rush. He recorded just two sacks and 25 quarterback pressures last season across 465 snaps. He would likely command a minimal deal.

The appeal here is his connection to coach John Harbaugh and his reputation as a culture builder. Van Noy has been regarded throughout his career as a strong leader, and the Giants could use that type of veteran presence on the back end of their roster. He would not take snaps away from Abdul Carter, Brian Burns, or Kayvon Thibodeaux. Instead, his value would come from mentoring the younger pass rushers, particularly Carter.

The Giants largely stuck with a three-man rotation at pass rusher and rarely deployed a fourth. Van Noy’s on-field contributions would be limited, but the Giants should look into adding leadership and the development value he could provide makes him worth it. 

Taylor Rapp is needed help

The Giants’ safety situation is the most concerning of the three position groups discussed here. Tyler Nubin and Jevon Holland could play better with improved coaching, but the depth behind them raises real questions. Jason Pinnock, Elijah Campbell, Raheem Layne, and Bo Brade do not inspire confidence as next-man-up options.

Taylor Rapp, 28, played only six games last season due to a knee injury, which likely explains why he remains unsigned. The Giants could sign him cheaply, given his health status, and provide themselves with a legitimate third option at safety.

My take? Of the three free agents above, Van Noy is the most worth pursuing. The Giants don’t need any of these players, but adding one or two of them for camp competition and veteran stability could pay dividends when the regular season arrives.