Best New York Giants Players of All Time

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The New York Giants, founded in 1925 by Tim Mara with an investment of US$500, have a rich history and tradition formed through a winning culture and exceptional talent. Although this franchise is nearly 100 years old, there are a few individuals that have emerged as the greatest to ever don the Giants’ iconic blue and red. Let’s take a look at the defensive legends who reshaped the game and offensive players whose heroics will live forever in the pantheon of the greatest Giants of all time.

How We Chose The Best New York Giants Players of All Time?

Selecting the best Giants of all time is not an easy task and involves various factors:

On-field Performance: This is straight-forward. Look at their achievements, stats and impact on games. Were they selected to Pro Bowls? All-Pro? Did they define the position they played and leave an impact on the game?

Longevity and Consistency: Recognizing players who sustained a high level of performance throughout their careers with the Giants, showcasing consistency and reliability.

Team Success: The ultimate factor to determine success is winning. How did the team perform when this player was on the field?

Impact and Legacy: Evaluating a player’s influence beyond statistics, such as leadership qualities, cultural impact on the team or the sport, and their enduring legacy within the franchise and the NFL as a whole.

Best Overall New York Giants of All Time

#1 Lawrence Taylor

It’s no surprise that L.T. is #1 on this list. In fact, this was a very easy choice. Considered by many, not only the best Giants player of all-time, but the best defensive player in NFL history. Still one of only two defensive players to win NFL MVP (1986) the same season he won his first of two Superbowl rings. Taylor recorded 132.5 quarterback sacks (not including 9.5 sacks he recorded in 1981, since the sack didn’t become an official NFL statistic until 1982), 1,088 tackles, 33 forced fumbles, 10 fumble recoveries, and nine interceptions during his career. He was selected to play in 10 Pro Bowls and in 1994 was named to the NFL’s 75th Anniversary All-Time Team. 1999 NFL Hall of Fame inductee.

#2 Michael Strahan

Defense has always been the Giants backbone and identity of their championship teams. Strahan anchored the D-Line for parts of 15 seasons. In his breakout season of 1997, he recorded 14 sacks on his way to his first Pro Bowl and was also named First-team All-Pro by the Associated Press. Over the next decade Strahan would tally up 141.5 career sacks (fifth all-time when he retired), 854 career tackles, four career interceptions, 24 forced fumbles, and three career touchdowns in 200 games. He was also named to the Pro Bowl roster seven times. However, his biggest accomplishment may have been leading the ferocious Giants defense to a 17-14 upset win of the New England Patriots in Superbowl 42 a game that saw Strahan record two tackles and a sack. 2014 NFL Hall of Fame inductee.

#3 Eli Manning

Eli Manning, a two-time Super Bowl MVP was the cornerstone of the New York Giants franchise from 2004 to 2019. Manning’s career was defined by his ability to rise to the occasion in critical moments, particularly showcased in two Super Bowl victories over the New England Patriots. His leadership in the locker room and his role as the face of the franchise endeared him not only to fans but also to teammates and coaches. Manning’s humble demeanor earned him the nickname Easy E. His commitment to the game, coupled with his ability to handle adversity with grace, earned him widespread respect throughout the NFL community. Manning’s legacy should by all means extend into Canton Ohio where he will live forever in the NFL Hall of Fame. Manning will be on the ballot for the first time in 2024.

Best New York Giants Quarterbacks of All Time

#1 Eli Manning

Manning’s two Super Bowl MVPs, both earned in victories against the New England Patriots, solidified his legacy as one of the most clutch quarterbacks in NFL history. His leadership, resilience, and ability to deliver under pressure made him a beloved figure among Giants fans.

#2 Phil Simms

Simms, the MVP of Super Bowl XXI, was the cornerstone of the Giants’ offense in the 1980s. His precision passing and ability to lead the team to its first Super Bowl victory elevated him to legendary status among Giants faithful. His 88% completion percentage and 150.9 passer rating are still Super Bowl records.

Best New York Giants Running Backs of All Time

#1 Tiki Barber

The team’s all-time leading rusher, Barber’s tenure as a running back was characterized by consistency and versatility. His knack for breaking records, coupled with his ability to contribute both as a rusher and receiver, left an indelible mark on the Giants’ franchise.

#2 Saquon Barkley

The four time Giants captain is the only active Giant to make this list. Barkley is a dynamic player who contributes running, receiving and blocking. In 2018 he recorded 91 rec, 721 rec yds, 1307 rushing yards and 11 TD’s on the ground on the way to Offensive Rookie of the year.

#3 Brandon Jacobs

This powerful and charismatic back holds the franchise record for rushing touchdowns and played a huge part in winning Super Bowl 42 and 46. At 6’4” 250 Jacobs used a downhill running style to punish defenses and establish the running game for the offense.

New York Giants Best Player FAQ’s

Who is considered the greatest New York Giants player of all time?

Lawrence Taylor is widely known as being the best player to ever wear a New York Giants uniform.

How many Hall of Famers have played for the New York Giants?

There are 21 NY Giants in the NFL Hall of Fame. This includes owners Tim Mara and Wellington Mara, General Manager George Young and Head Coach Bill Parcells along with 17 players.

Who are some iconic players from different eras in Giants history?

• Saquon Barkely, RB 2018-Present
• Eli Manning, QB 2004-2019
• Michael Strahan, DE 1993-2007
• Tiki Barber, RB 1997-2006
• Phil Simms, QB 1979-1993
• Lawrence Taylor, LB 1981-1993
• Harry Carson, LB 1976-1988
• Sam Huff, LB 1956-1969