As the New York Giants prepare to close the curtain on a disastrous 2024 season, the spotlight shifts to Brian Daboll and his uncertain future as head coach. Just two years removed from being named NFL Coach of the Year, Daboll now finds himself at the crossroads of his tenure, with ownership reportedly planning multiple meetings to discuss his vision for fixing a franchise that has spiraled into disarray.
From Promise to Problems: Daboll’s Decline
Daboll’s tenure began with immense promise. In his first year, he guided the Giants to an encouraging 9-7-1 record and a playoff appearance. Fast forward to today, and the team has regressed to 3-13, with one game remaining—a stark contrast that raises serious questions about his ability to steer the franchise forward.
While injuries and inconsistent quarterback play have contributed to the Giants’ decline, Daboll’s own decisions have also come under scrutiny:
- Play-Calling Woes: Taking over as the team’s offensive play-caller, Daboll was expected to replicate his success from Buffalo. Instead, the offense has sputtered, ranking near the bottom of the league in scoring and efficiency.
- Quarterback Struggles: Daboll was hailed as a “quarterback whisperer” for his work with Josh Allen. However, Daniel Jones regressed badly before his 2023 ACL injury, and backup Drew Lock has shown only sporadic flashes of competence in 2024.
- Preseason Preparedness: For two consecutive years, the Giants have entered Week 1 looking unprepared, a result of Daboll’s reluctance to give starters significant preseason snaps. This has led to sluggish starts that have haunted the team.
Locker Room Dynamics: Players Stand by Daboll
Despite the mounting criticism, Daboll appears to retain support within the locker room. Kayvon Thibodeaux, one of the team’s cornerstone players, defended his head coach, calling him a “great coach” and a “player’s coach.”
Thibodeaux elaborated:
“I think he has great philosophies. Sometimes, things just don’t shake out for the season. I got total confidence in the organization and total confidence in the coaching.”
Daboll’s player-friendly approach—soliciting feedback from team leaders and shielding players from public criticism—has endeared him to the roster. However, goodwill from the locker room may not be enough to save his job if ownership feels the team’s trajectory is unsalvageable.
Ownership’s Decision: To Retain or Rebuild?
The decision to keep or part ways with Daboll hinges on his ability to present a convincing plan for turning the team around. Reports suggest that Giants ownership is leaning toward retaining him, but with significant caveats:
- Changes Must Be Made: Daboll’s steadfast adherence to certain strategies—like his play-calling duties—may need to be revisited. Everything is reportedly “on the table” for discussion.
- Shortened Grace Period: Daboll’s 2022 accolades no longer carry weight. If retained, he must demonstrate immediate progress in 2025 or risk being replaced midseason.
Looking Ahead: A Franchise at a Crossroads
If Daboll remains at the helm, the Giants must address several critical issues in the offseason:
- Revamp the Offense: Hiring a dedicated offensive coordinator could relieve Daboll of play-calling duties and revitalize the unit.
- Stabilize the Quarterback Position: With Caleb Williams showing promise despite being sacked a staggering 67 times, rebuilding the offensive line is paramount.
- Cultural Reset: The team needs to regain its competitive edge, starting with better preseason preparation and accountability at all levels.
The Verdict: Can Daboll Redeem Himself?
Daboll’s future with the Giants is far from certain, but if ownership decides to retain him, it will likely come with a mandate for sweeping changes. The coach who once brought hope to a struggling franchise now faces his toughest challenge yet: proving he can reverse the downward spiral and restore the Giants’ relevance.