Giants 2024 season awards: MVP, Rookie of the Year and more​on January 6, 2025 at 10:47 am

Nose tackle Dexter Lawrence may have spent the final month of the season on injured reserve (IR) as the result of a dislocated elbow, but his 12-game dominance can not be ignored. He was the Giants’ lone Pro Bowler after compiling 44 tackles (23 solo, eight for a loss), one forced fumble, one pass defensed, 16 QB hits, and 9.0 sacks. He was the team’s highest-graded player and the second-highest-graded interior defensive lineman in football.

Others receiving votes: None

Wide receiver Malik Nabers burst onto the scene and dominated despite the offensive issues that plagued the Giants all season. He broke several all-time NFL and franchise records along the way, closing out the season with 109 receptions for 1,204 yards and seven touchdowns. No one else came close to his level of production with the exception of fellow rookie, Tyrone Tracy Jr.

Others receiving votes: Tyrone Tracy Jr.

It would make sense for Dexter Lawrence to also take home this honor but linebacker Brian Burns deserves his flowers. After a somewhat inconsistent start, he became a true defensive leader and a genuine tough guy. He played through a multitude of injuries and never once complained.

Burns finished the season with a career-high 71 tackles, as well as two forced fumbles, eight passes defensed, and 8.5 sacks. However, his value on defense goes well beyond the box score numbers.

Others receiving votes: Dexter Lawrence

In what was likely Azeez Ojulari’s final season with the Giants, he finished with 28 tackles, one fumble recovery, and 6.0 sacks. Considering he played a largely rotational role outside of a few starts in place of the injured Kayvon Thibodeaux, he put up strong numbers.

Somewhat ironically, Ojulari ended the year on IR but after two less-than-stellar seasons plagued by injury, he deserves some kudos. Ojulari put up his best numbers since his rookie season of 2021.

Others receiving votes: None

This was a hotly contested vote but the honor ultimately went to right tackle Evan Neal.

Although Neal didn’t start at the beginning of the season, injuries ultimately paved the way for his return at right tackle. And while he was far from a superstar out there, Neal’s improvement over the past two years was pronounced.

Perhaps that’s more of a reflection on how bad Neal had played early in his career, but he was at least serviceable and that’s a marked improvement. Both statistically and analytically, his game improved dramatically (from the worst offensive tackle in the NFL to a slightly below-average one).

Others receiving votes: Dane Belton

We don’t like doubling up on these awards but Nabers was so dominant as a rookie he forced our hand.

The good news? Every member of the 2024 NFL draft class produced and proved that they will have key roles in the future. From Tracy to linebacker Darius Muasau, it was a strong class. But Nabers stood tall above the rest and produced what was one of the best wide receiver performances in team history.

Others receiving votes: None

Surprise could have been good (see: Tracy and Robinson) or bad (see: Jalin Hyatt). Ultimately, the Giants Wire staff went with the good and Tracy fit that bill.

When the Giants selected Tracy in the fifth round, it was clear they were getting a dynamic, versatile, and athletic player. He was a converted wide receiver with little running back experience, but that didn’t stop him. He hit the ground running (no pun intended) and ultimately took over the starting role from veteran Devin Singletary.

Tracy’s development throughout the season was obvious and he’s not even scratching the surface of his potential. He may not be Saquon Barkley, but he’s a top back in the making.

Tracy finished his rookie season with 1,184 total yards and six touchdowns.

Others receiving votes: Jalin Hyatt, Wan’Dale Robinson