The New York Giants had a highly frustrating season in 2023, sparking speculation about their immediate future. One major question revolves around star running back Saquon Barkley, who is on the verge of becoming a free agent and had been seeking a lucrative contract extension during training camp. Another area of speculation centers on head coach Brain Daboll, who has been rumored to be in jeopardy.
At present, Daboll’s position appears to be secure, and there are reports that the Giants are bringing in a new defensive coordinator, Shane Bowen, formerly of the Tennessee Titans, according to information from Jeremy Fowler. Sources indicate that the Giants are planning to hire Bowen for the role and have initiated discussions with Titans staff members who previously worked with him.
Bowen had served as the Titans’ defensive coordinator for the past three seasons, although the team’s defensive performance has been average over the last two years. In his first season in the role, the Titans did manage to finish sixth in points allowed and second in rushing yards given up. However, the Giants’ defense was almost as weak as their offense this season.
In the previous season, the Giants’ defense played a significant role in their 9-7-1 record and surprising upset of the 13-4 Minnesota Vikings in the playoffs. While New York boasts Pro Bowl defensive lineman Dexter Lawrence and promising linebacker Kayvon Thibodeaux, their secondary could benefit from reinforcements.
After winning only six games this year, the Giants hold the sixth overall pick in the upcoming April draft. It will be intriguing to see which direction they choose to go in and how they utilize that pick.