The New York Giants are back to work following their Thursday night win over the Philadelphia Eagles, improving to 2-4 as they prepare for a tough road matchup against the 4-2 Denver Broncos.
On Thursday, media heard from offensive coordinator Mike Kafka, defensive coordinator Shane Bowen, and special teams coordinator Michael Ghobrial, who each broke down their units’ performance and what lies ahead.
Here’s what stood out:
Jaxson Dart continues to earn respect
The rookie quarterback has looked poised and composed since taking over the starting job, and his steady development continues to impress Kafka.
“Jaxson’s confidence and energy have really raised the level of everyone around him,” Kafka said. “He brings that spark not only to the huddle but in the locker room, in meetings, even walking around the building.”
Kafka said Dart’s growth is about more than just on-field results — it’s about stacking experiences and learning from them week to week.
“The season moves fast,” Kafka said. “You’ve got to take the good things, keep building on them, and correct what doesn’t go well. He’s done that.”
With veteran Russell Wilson now serving as Dart’s backup, Kafka said the quarterback room has become a source of valuable mentorship.
“Russ has been phenomenal,” Kafka said. “He’s a captain, a great resource. The young guys listen when he shares experiences — you can tell they’re soaking it all in.”
Offensive line stability paying off
After battling injuries earlier in the season, the Giants’ offensive line finally looks more cohesive particularly with Andrew Thomas back protecting Dart’s blind side.
“It’s been great to have A.T. back,” Kafka said. “He’s one of those players who’s always prepared, always studying tape, and that helps everyone around him. Having him healthy adds confidence in the pocket and more physicality in the run game.”
Thomas and company will have their hands full this Sunday against a Denver front led by pass rusher Nik Bonitto, who leads the league in sacks.
Austin Schlottmann will be filling in at center with John Michael Schmitz out with a concussion.
Flott earns the edge at cornerback
Defensive coordinator Shane Bowen continued his “week-to-week” approach at corner, but Cor’Dale Flott appears to have solidified himself as the primary option over Deonte Banks, at least for now.
“That’s what we decided to do [against the Eagles], and he showed up and played well for us,” Bowen said. “We’re going to need both those guys this year. It’s an ongoing evaluation.”
Flott’s steady play and improved discipline have stood out in recent weeks, while Banks has struggled with penalties and positioning.
Bowen said the defense as a whole is beginning to find its rhythm after a rough start to the season.
“There’s a comfort level being established,” Bowen said. “We’ve got some new pieces, especially on the back end, and they’re starting to communicate and play faster. I’m pleased with the progress.”
Run defense tightening up
A major turnaround for Bowen’s group has been its run-stopping ability. After allowing several explosive plays earlier in the year, the Giants have limited big gains the last two weeks.
“Our tackling’s improved,” Bowen said. “We’re swarming to the football, getting off blocks, and not leaving it up to one-on-one tackles. Even the long ones we gave up against Philly — those were 13 and 18 yards, not 40-plus. That’s a big difference.”
Bowen credited better discipline in run fits and improved chemistry among the defensive front, particularly on stunts and pressure looks.
Burns’ leadership making an impact
Star edge defender Brian Burns has taken on a vocal leadership role, even organizing a recent players-only defensive meeting to strengthen accountability.
“He’s established himself as a leader,” Bowen said. “He’s in the building studying, talking with guys, keeping everyone on the same page. That’s what you want — guys taking ownership of the group.”
Ghobrial confident in Jude McAtamney
Special teams coordinator Michael Ghobrial praised young kicker Jude McAtamney, who has shown consistency since taking over for the injured Graham Gano.
“Other than the one missed PAT last game, he’s done a nice job,” Ghobrial said. “Whenever we send him out there, the expectation is we come out with points.”
Ghobrial said McAtamney’s leg strength is on par with the “monster legs” around the league.
“He’s got power and flexibility — he can hit the big ball,” Ghobrial said. “We’ll be smart with our decisions, but if we need a long one, we know he’s capable.”
Pro Bowl for Dane Belton?
The Giants’ special teams have excelled so far in 2025.
SPECIAL TEAMS RANKINGS
Punt return average: 9.3 | 22nd
Kickoff return average: 27.2 | 6th
Field goal percentage: 100% | T-1st
Opponent punt return average: 4.7 | 4th
Opponent kick return average: 21.7 | 3rd
One of the primary reasons for the solid punt and kickoff coverage has been the play of backup safety Dane Belton, who has a league-leading 11 special teams tackles (8 solo, 3 assisted).
“Dane is playing at a Pro Bowl level,” Ghobrial said. “He is number one in the league in special teams tackles. You see all his study habits, all his hard work this offseason of improving the things that he needed to, show up on game day, and it’s infectious. The guy has been playing really, really well for us. I want to make note of the fact that it is elite right now. Playing at that Pro Powl level and that consistency to do it from a game in, game out basis ultimately elevates everybody else.”
