The New York Giants’ defense was an utter disappointment this past season, as was the rest of the team, as they stumbled their way to a lowly 3-14 record. Following the failed season, there was much speculation that the Giants would make several changes to their coaching staff in an effort to get back on track.
However, more recent reports indicate that head coach Brian Daboll prefers to maintain continuity and keep his coaching staff intact.
Giants reportedly plan to retain DC Shane Bowen
Defensive coordinator Shane Bowen seemed to be on the hot seat following this past season. His unit took a major step backward from the 2023 unit he inherited and team president John Mara expressed his frustration with the defense at the end of the season, seemingly indicating that a change would be made.
However, despite the defense’s struggle this season, Daboll is planning to retain Bowen as his defensive coordinator, per NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo:
“My understanding is Brian Daboll is moving forward with him as his coordinator,” Garafolo reported. “My best read on it as of now is he remains in that role in East Rutherford in 2025.”
Bowen’s defense underwhelmed in 2024
Bowen’s defense finished 27th in the NFL this season with 361.7 total yards per game allowed and 26th with 23.9 points per game allowed. The unit’s regression incited Mara’s critical comments at the end of the season:
“Quite frankly, I didn’t think our defense played very well this year at all,” the Giants’ co-owner and team president stated. “I know that when you have an offense that performs like that, you’re putting more pressure on your defense. But we need to make improvements there. I’m tired of watching teams go up and down the field on us. So, I think that has to be addressed. I think we need some more depth in the offensive line. But, the number one thing, certainly, is the quarterback.”
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Despite Mara’s frustration, it seems as though Daboll is taking a page out of the owner’s playbook and maintaining continuity. One of the chief reasons Daboll is being retained as the head coach for the 2025 season is Mara’s own desire to maintain continuity. Daboll clearly feels similarly as he reportedly plans to retain both Bowen and offensive coordinator Mike Kafka for the 2025 season.
However, it is still early in the offseason, and plenty could change as the coaching carousel begins to spin. Franchises around the league are making changes to their coaching staff, which could affect the Giants’ plans.
