The New York Giants selected Illinois senior left tackle J.C. Davis in the sixth round of the 2026 NFL Draft. Prior to the draft, Davis was projected to be a sixth or seventh round pick, and he fell into that projection as a sixth rounder.

Standing at just under 6-foot-5 and over 320 pounds, Davis will be an asset to the Giants. As he’s a left tackle for the offensive line, he will likely be a backup to starter Andrew Thomas. With that, Davis will be a key backup, as the Giants don’t have much tackle depth.

Davis is the second Illini to be drafted this year, joining senior linebacker Gabe Jacas, who was selected in the second round.

Davis transferred to Illinois for the 2024 season after spending two seasons at New Mexico and his freshman year at Contra Costa College. Davis ended his collegiate career with 49 consecutive starts, where he moved his way up to a Power 4 program. 

During his time at Illinois, Davis became the Fighting Illini Male Newcomer of the Year after the 2024 season and was on the Top 100 newcomer in college football list by ESPN. That season, he was the No. 4 graded pass blocking lineman in the country according to PFF. 

His 2025 season was also filled with accolades stemming from his success on the field. The California native made the All-Big Ten First Team by coaches and AP. He also made it on the Phil Steele All-America Fourth Team and was the No. 3 graded left tackle per PFF in the regular season. 

Davis’ strength and athleticism on the field are guaranteed assets for New York. However, Davis will need to practice and learn a little more body control and contact balance before he becomes a consistent starter and more versatile tackle for the Giants. 

 

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