Giants Dismiss Brian Daboll After Nearly 4 Seasons Amid Losing Streak
The New York Giants have made a significant change by dismissing head coach Brian Daboll after a disappointing start to the 2025 NFL season. Following a loss that brought the team’s record to 2-8, the Giants have named offensive coordinator Mike Kafka as the interim head coach.
Head Coach Brian Daboll’s Tenure
Brian Daboll had a rocky tenure with the Giants, concluding with an overall record of 20 wins, 40 losses, and 1 tie over three-plus seasons. His time was marked by highs and lows, including a promising first season in which he received the 2022 AP NFL Coach of the Year award. However, the following seasons saw dramatic declines, finishing 30th and 31st in scoring.
Controversial Decisions by Management
Team co-owners John Mara and Steve Tisch decided to give Daboll one more season to demonstrate improvement, despite a dismal 9-25 record in the previous two years. This decision placed immense pressure on Daboll as the 2025 season began. Mara expressed growing impatience, emphasizing the need for an immediate turnaround.
Interim Arrangements
With Daboll’s exit, Mike Kafka will step into the role of interim head coach. Kafka becomes the sixth head coach for the Giants since 2016. General Manager Joe Schoen and Defensive Coordinator Shane Bowen are expected to maintain their positions during this transition.
Quarterback Decisions and Issues
Daboll’s attempts to rejuvenate the offense included significant roster changes. Notably, the Giants parted ways with former quarterback Daniel Jones and brought in veterans Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston. This year, they selected rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart and viewed him as the future leader of the franchise.
Dart’s ascension culminated in impressive performances, including a notable win against the Chargers in Week 4. However, injuries soon marred his progress, leading to a concerning reliance on a young and frequently injured quarterback.
Looking Ahead for the Giants
As the season continues, the Giants face critical decisions regarding their coaching and player personnel. They seek to restore a competitive spirit, having recorded a dismal 53-104-1 since the departure of former head coach Tom Coughlin in 2015.
- 2025 Record: 2-8
- Daboll’s Tenure: 20-40-1
- Coaches Since 2016: 6
- Points in 2023: 30th in scoring
- Points in 2024: 31st in scoring
The Giants now look ahead to finding their fifth full-time head coach in an effort to reclaim their identity and competitiveness in the NFL.