The Pittsburgh Steelers host the New York Giants on Monday Night Football in Week 8. As the Giants prepare for another primetime game, their third in eight games, they currently find themselves at the bottom of the NFC East, making a whirlwind of headlines. From roster moves to big-name draft prospects and possible quarterback controversy, these are the top storylines surrounding Big Blue ahead of week 8.
New York Giants Top Headlines Ahead of Week 8
Giants Waive OLB Boogie Basham
The New York Giants made headlines this week by waiving outside linebacker Boogie Basham. Although he was acquired for a 2025 sixth-round pick, Basham struggled to make a name for himself on the team, finishing his short tenure in New York with just 12 tackles and no sacks. This decision frees up a roster spot but raises questions about the Giants’ depth. While the Giants secured a seventh-round pick in return, waiving him shows their willingness to pivot in a new direction. This demonstrates the need to reassess their roster and focus on rebuilding. This begins with maximizing draft assets as the front office continues to search for the pieces to add to a solid defensive core, including Dexter Lawrence, Brian Burns, and Kayvon Thibeadoux.
Scouting Future Talent?
On Tuesday, Giants Assistant General Manager Brandon Brown made a trip to Boulder, Colorado, to scout the Buffaloes under Head Coach Deion Sanders. Accompanied by Director of Player Personnel Tim McDonald and another scout, Brown took the chance to connect with student-athletes, sharing his insights about the NFL Draft process and what the scouts prioritize in when looking at who these athletes are on and off the field. “When you think nobody’s watching, somebody’s watching,” Brown stated, highlighting the importance of work ethic and character for those aiming for the NFL. The Giants currently hold the ninth pick in the 2025 NFL Draft; this would make it their third top-10 selection under General Manager Joe Schoen. This spot could indicate a potential pursuit of their franchise quarterback going forward.
Shedeur Sanders and the Early Draft Buzz
As the Giants look towards the future, Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders is emerging as a top candidate for the 2025 NFL Draft. With a 2-5 record, the Giants find themselves in the perfect position to target their next franchise quarterback. Sanders has been both impressive with his ability to show poise in the pocket and his above-average football IQ. In week 7 of College Football, Sanders delivered another standout performance. He completed 23 of 33 passes for 250 yards and two touchdwons. In total, Shedeur Sanders is currently ranked 5th in passing yards with 2268, tied for 5th in passing touchdowns with 19, and 4th in completion percentage at 72%.
Giants Underdogs Yet Again
Another primetime game, Monday Night Football, another underdog story for the New York Giants as they come in as 6.5-point underdogs against the 5-2 Pittsburgh Steelers. This marks the 23rd consecutive week they have found themselves in this position – second only to the Carolina Panthers. This persistent underdog status reflects the team’s ongoing struggle for consistency. Monday night’s matchup sets the stage for another prime-time game where they will try and prove themselves against a tough Steelers team that is coming off a big win against the New York Jets.
Daniel Jones Remains the Starter
The New York Giants only put up 115 total yards of offense in an embarrassing loss at home, 28-3, to the Philadelphia Eagles. Compared to former Giants running back Saquon Barkley, who on his own had 176 yards rushing on 25 carries, in addition to a touchdown. Following the game, during a press conference, Head Coach Brian Daboll continues to display his confidence in Daniel Jones as the starting quarterback. “I think he gives us the best chance, number one,” Daboll stated, despite Jones’ continued struggles with the offense in year six of the NFL. Jones was pulled in the fourth quarter of the Eagles game for backup quarterback Drew Lock, having thrown for only 99 yards on 14 of 21 completions. Going forward, Daniel Jones will remain the man in charge as the Giants aim to turn their season around.
The New York Giants head to Pittsburgh with their backs against the wall for Monday night football. This is familiar territory for the Giants, who sit at 2-5 to start the season. Closing in on the halfway mark of the season, teams are starting to set themselves apart from the rest. Losing close games has only put the Giants farther behind, especially while dropping to 0-3 against divisional opponents.
Main Image: Kevin R. Wexler – USA Today Sports
