There is a moment near the climax of the 2002 Disney film Treasure Planet – which, if you haven’t seen it, essentially puts the story of the classic novel Treasure Island in space – where a pirate mutiny happens earlier than the villain had planned for. And as he realizes that the jig is up, that it is go time, the cyborg John Silver switches into battle mode (again, cannot recommend this movie enough) while screaming a simple command to his fellow pirates):
“Change in plan lads: WE. MOVE. NOW.”
The New York Giants find themselves in a similar situation – minus the space pirates, of course. After stumbling out of the gate with three straight losses, they’ve turned things around by going 2-1 since rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart took over the starting job. The Ole Miss product isn’t just surviving – he’s thriving alongside fellow rookies Abdul Carter and Cam Skattebo, with the trio making serious noise in the Rookie of the Year conversation.
What’s most impressive? Dart’s performance against the Eagles last Thursday night when he carved up one of the league’s most fearsome pass rushes. He went 9-of-13 with a touchdown against the blitz — and did it all without his top two receivers Malik Nabers and Darius Slayton.
So much for being a “project” quarterback.
The Giants’ front office has seen enough to believe they’ve found their guy under center. This unexpected development has accelerated their timeline for contention, and now GM Joe Schoen is readying for a major move before the trade deadline. The normally conservative Giants freed up nearly $5 million in cap space this week by restructuring several contracts – a clear signal they’re preparing to make their biggest splash at receiver since the Kenny Golladay disaster.
They’re not just dipping their toes in the water either. New York is reportedly willing to part with significant draft capital in a blockbuster trade, with at least seven wide receivers on their radar. The thinking is simple: if Dart is playing this well now, imagine how dangerous they could be down the stretch – and next year when Nabers returns.
Here’s who should top the Giants’ trade target board:
1. Chris Olave, New Orleans Saints
It’s no surprise Olave sits atop the Giants’ wish list. Among the NFL’s top 25 receivers this season, he ranks second in targets (64), fifth in receptions (39), and first in average depth of target (8.8). In other words, he’s a perfect fit for what New York needs right now.
The Giants’ offensive line remains a work in progress (and that’s being kind). When Andrew Thomas isn’t protecting Dart’s blindside, things get downright ugly up front. That’s why Brian Daboll and OC Mike Kafka have designed an offense that gets the ball out quickly or keeps their young QB on the move.
Olave thrives in exactly this type of system. He’s one of the league’s premier possession receivers who can line up both outside and in the slot. There are some concerns – his concussion history isn’t great, and he’ll need a new contract soon – but he’s stayed healthy through six weeks this season. Plus, the Saints appear headed for a rebuild, making them more willing to part with their star wideout than most teams would be.
2. Romeo Doubs, Green Bay Packers
While he doesn’t carry the star power of some other names on this list, Doubs might be the most realistic target. He still leads the Packers in both receptions (18) and touchdowns (4) despite Green Bay’s crowded receiver room.
At just 25, Doubs offers both immediate impact and long-term upside. He’s also likely to command a less expensive extension in 2026 than someone like Olave or Waddle. The most crucial factor? He’s healthy and available right now. Multiple reports have already linked the Giants to the Packers as potential trade partners, suggesting there might already be momentum building toward a deal.
3. Jaylen Waddle, Miami Dolphins
If the Giants want the highest ceiling, Waddle is their guy. Remember that magical 2022 season when he and Tyreek Hill seemed unstoppable? That version of Waddle still shows up regularly, as evidenced by his ranking (12th among WRs in total yards this season) despite Miami’s offensive struggles.
The drawbacks are significant, though. Waddle will likely cost the most in terms of both trade compensation and future contract dollars. He’s dealt with nagging injuries throughout his career, and while the Dolphins might be heading toward a rebuild, it’s less clear if they’re ready to part with one of their few remaining stars.
4. Jakobi Meyers, Las Vegas Raiders
Anyone who has Meyers in fantasy knows how frustrating his season has been. Despite the Raiders’ offensive woes, he’s still managed to rack up 329 yards through six weeks – good for top-25 production among NFL receivers.
The Giants likely view Meyers as a fallback option. At 28, he’s older than the other targets on this list, and his cap hit exceeds $14 million for 2025. He’s reliable and would certainly help Dart’s development, but he lacks the game-breaking ability New York seems to be hunting for in this aggressive trade market.