The season is still in its early ͏stages, but the outlook ͏for certain teams and prospects is already beginning ͏to take shape. The 2026 NFL Draft picture is slowly forming, and while some͏ players have ͏solidified their reputations as top-tier talents, others ͏must ͏prove themselves ͏worthy of an early selection.
For the New York ͏Giants, the discussion is shifting toward a particular lineman whose size and skill could change the future of their offense.
Could Spencer Fano Anchor the Giants’ Future?
According to the PFSN Mock Draft Simulator, the Giants are projected to select Spencer Fano, the Utah offensive tackle, with their first-round pick. New York’s offensive line ranks 27th in PFSN’s OLi metric, underscoring the urgency of rebuilding the unit. Fano, standing at 6’6″ and weighing 308 pounds, is considered one of the premier players available.
Reports highlight his blend of physicality and refined technique. According to PFSN’s Owain Jones, Fano combines intense physicality with staggering power. He fires off the line with impressive quickness, bringing a ruthless, mauling style in space while maintaining refined pass protection skills supported by steady footwork.
This combination of aggression and discipline makes him an attractive option for a Giants franchise that has struggled to protect its quarterbacks in recent years.
If New York holds the top pick, the outcome could signal sweeping changes at the organization’s top. Analysts believe that Brian Daboll and Joe Schoen would likely be fired if the New York Giants end up with the first overall pick.
A new general manager and head coach could consider a quarterback, but much depends on Jaxson Dart’s development when he takes the field this season.
Protecting him will become the front office’s top priority if Dart shows enough potential.
Fano has experience on both sides of the line, allowing him to offer flexibility while providing immediate stability. In 2024, he surrendered only one sack after moving to right tackle, showing adaptability.
Utah, meanwhile, is͏ home to͏ the best offensive tackle ͏tandem in college football, ͏a fact that͏ has NFL scouts ͏eager to visit Salt ͏Lake City. Alongside Fano is L͏o͏mu, a younger tackle praised for ͏body control and foot quickness despite ͏occasional lapses in strength. Both players are projected as potential top-20 picks if their development continues.
In early matchups, Fano’s reliability has already stood out. Apart from a single holding penalty against Wyoming, he has played ͏nearly flawless football this season. ͏His aggressive ͏demeanor, paired ͏with his ͏ability to lean into strengths, has made him a͏ devastating blocker in both run and pass situations.
Scouts will get another valuable look when Utah faces Texas Tech, whose defense features one of the nation’s strongest pass-rushing duos. Stanford transfer David Bailey, who has already recorded 16 pressures this season, brings elite edge speed, while Romello Height offers relentless energy despite his smaller frame. This matchup will allow Fano to demonstrate his NFL readiness further.
The Giants’ offensive line overhaul is overdue, and Fano looks like a prospect capable of anchoring their future. Whether or not Jaxson Dart becomes the long-term answer at quarterback, ensuring his protection is a critical step forward. If projections hold, New York’s future may rest on the shoulders of Utah’s standout tackle.