Could the NY Giants’ 2026 Draft Pick Dani Dennis-Sutton Be the Next NFL Superstar? You Won't Believe His Stats!

As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the New York Giants are evaluating their roster needs, particularly on the defensive side of the game. One notable prospect who may catch their eye is Dani Dennis-Sutton from Penn State. While it seems unlikely that the Giants will need to draft an edge defender, shifts in personnel and schemes can occur as the off-season unfolds.

Dennis-Sutton is well-known to the Giants' scouting team, having been evaluated alongside teammates like Abdul Carter in 2025 and Theo Johnson in 2024. At 6-foot-5 and 265 pounds, he possesses the prototypical size for a traditional defensive end, which is crucial for the Giants as they consider their defensive strategies moving forward.

Strengths of Dani Dennis-Sutton

What sets Dennis-Sutton apart is his combination of athleticism and technique. He has demonstrated his readiness for the professional level with solid play strength and discipline. His ability to align at both left and right defensive end positions in Penn State’s system highlights his versatility. Dennis-Sutton is particularly effective against the run; his disciplined approach allows him to set a firm edge and defend read-option plays effectively.

In his last two seasons, Dennis-Sutton showcased impressive statistics, recording 13.0 tackles for a loss and 8.5 sacks in 2024, followed by similar numbers in 2025 with 12.0 tackles for a loss and 8.5 sacks. Additionally, he forced 5 fumbles across both seasons. This production signals a player who can disrupt opposing offenses and apply pressure on quarterbacks, a need the Giants have had in recent years.

His game tape reveals a player with a complete pass-rushing toolkit, adept at using finesse and power moves. He blends techniques like club, rip, and swipe moves to attack blockers effectively, which is critical in the fast-paced environment of the NFL.

Areas for Improvement

However, the Giants must also consider the weaknesses evident in Dennis-Sutton's game. His lower body stiffness, particularly in his ankles, has posed challenges in maintaining leverage and agility. This lack of fluidity can force him into wider paths when rushing the quarterback, which could be exploited by more agile offensive linemen. Additionally, he may struggle to redirect quickly in pursuit, sometimes missing opportunities to make significant plays due to delayed reactions when the ball carrier changes direction.

While these issues might limit his upside as a premier pass rusher, Dennis-Sutton's competitive toughness and solid technique could still make him a valuable asset. His projection suggests he would excel in a 4-3 defensive scheme or as an edge defender in a more modern system, likely serving as a high-snap third edge defender early in his career. If the Giants were to select him, they could feel confident in placing him in a starting role, depending on the team's defensive scheme.

As the Giants weigh their options for the upcoming draft, Dennis-Sutton could be a compelling choice, assuming his playing style aligns with the team's evolving defensive strategies. The NFL draft often presents opportunities for teams to fill gaps and strengthen their rosters, and Dennis-Sutton's blend of size, strength, and discipline makes him a prospect worth considering.

In summary, while the need for an edge defender may not be urgent for the New York Giants heading into 2026, the potential drafting of Dani Dennis-Sutton could address future needs and enhance their defensive lineup, ensuring they remain competitive in a challenging division.