Battle for Final Receiver Spots Among Things to Watch in Giants’ Second Preseason Game
As the New York Giants gear up for their second preseason matchup, all eyes will be on a tightly contested position group that could determine the outcome of some difficult roster decisions: wide receiver. With a handful of players on the bubble and only so many roster spots available, the battle for those final receiver slots is one of the most intriguing storylines heading into this critical game.
The top of the depth chart is more or less locked in. Veterans and high draft picks—like Malik Nabers, Darius Slayton, and Wan’Dale Robinson—have shown enough to feel safe about their roles. But beyond them, the picture gets a lot murkier. Isaiah Hodgins, Jalin Hyatt, Bryce Ford-Wheaton, and others are all fighting for limited room on the final 53-man roster. For each, this second preseason game is far more than just another exhibition—it’s a make-or-break audition.
One of the biggest factors in this battle is versatility. Special teams play can be a decisive tiebreaker for players on the edge of the roster. Guys like Gunner Olszewski, known for his return abilities, might not make a significant impact in the passing game, but his contributions on kick and punt coverage could keep him around. The coaching staff will be paying close attention not just to route running and catches, but to blocking, effort, and execution on special teams units.
Then there are the practice squad considerations. The NFL allows teams to keep up to 16 players on the practice squad, but any standout showing in these preseason games could make a receiver a target for other teams. That raises the stakes for each snap—if a player flashes too brightly, the Giants may feel pressured to keep them on the active roster to avoid losing them altogether.
There’s also the matter of chemistry with the quarterbacks. Daniel Jones likely won’t play much, if at all, but backups like Drew Lock and Tommy DeVito are expected to get extended looks. That means receivers working with the second and third teams will need to make the most of every target, showing they can create separation, run clean routes, and make contested catches when needed. Timing and consistency will be critical.
Injury history and availability may also play a role. Some players may be nursing minor injuries or recovering from offseason procedures, which limits their chances to stand out. That opens the door for less-heralded receivers to make an impression. Undrafted free agents or second-year players buried on the depth chart will need to treat this game like a playoff audition.
Ultimately, these battles will come down to the smallest of details—one big catch, one missed block, one fumble on special teams. The second preseason game is more than just warm-up football; for several Giants receivers, it could be the difference between a roster spot, a practice squad designation, or a call from another team. As the game unfolds, fans and coaches alike will be watching every snap to see who steps up—and who gets left behind.