Another Rough Day for the Offense — But Plenty to Learn
For the second time in three days, the Giants’ offense struggled to find rhythm during practice — a growing trend as camp hits its dog days.
Quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Jaxson Dart both had their moments but also their miscues. Wilson threw an interception to Deonte Banks during live drills and failed to lead the first-team offense into the end zone during a two-minute simulation. Dart finished 9-of-15 with a pick of his own, while Wilson ended 13-of-20, also with one interception.
The sloppiness wasn’t limited to turnovers. Practice featured a delay of game, several false starts, and an animated Brian Daboll, visibly frustrated on the sideline.
“We’ve got to be sharper,” Daboll said bluntly. “There’s no substitute for execution — and that includes mental discipline.”
Offense Stalls Without Nabers
Perhaps the most telling issue: the offense’s performance sharply declined when Malik Nabers was off the field. The second-year star wideout sat out the final portion of practice, following what he described as a “planned” part of his recovery process.
“It’s just part of the plan,” Nabers said post-practice. “They want me fully healthy for the season, so I’m following the roadmap. Some days are better than others, but I feel good out there.”
Nabers, who missed time this spring with a toe injury and briefly left practice earlier in camp with a shoulder scare, remains a focal point of the offense — both on and off the field. He’s taken on a more vocal leadership role in his second year, a trait encouraged by Wilson.
“I have to step out of my quiet mode sometimes,” Nabers admitted. “Get guys riled up, lead my receiver group, and be better for my team.”
Wilson praised that evolution: “He’s stepped into that leadership role. He’s vocal in meetings, on the field — it’s been great to see.”
Standout of Camp: Abdul Carter
If there’s one player making a daily impact, it’s rookie edge rusher Abdul Carter, the Giants’ third overall pick. Carter continued to dominate off the edge, including a would-be sack of Wilson during team drills.
“He’s instinctive, quick, and just finds ways to the football,” defensive coordinator Shane Bowen said. “There’s a time and place to be instinctive — and Abdul’s showing he understands that balance.”
Carter’s relentless pressure is creating problems for the offensive line, and his versatility — being able to play on and off the ball — has given Bowen options to rotate him with Kayvon Thibodeaux and Brian Burns.
“They’re all impact players,” Bowen added. “And our job is to find ways to use them all. It’s a good challenge to have.”
Dart’s Growth: Steady but Scrutinized
While Russell Wilson remains QB1, the development of rookie Jaxson Dart is one of the most closely monitored storylines of camp. General Manager Joe Schoen said earlier this week that he’s pleased with Dart’s trajectory, and Offensive Coordinator Mike Kafka echoed that sentiment.
“Jaxson is right on schedule,” Kafka said. “He’s learning the offense, stacking reps, and showing poise. The preseason will be a great test.”
Nabers — who offered Dart advice based on his own rookie experience — said the key is keeping perspective.
“I told him: the hard part was getting here. Now it’s about making your name and keeping it.”
Wilson and Kafka Building a Bond
Kafka, now calling plays for the first time in a full-time capacity, has leaned into collaboration with Wilson, whose extensive experience is providing valuable input into the offense.
“We have great dialogue,” Kafka said. “It’s about opening lines of communication — what Russ likes, what I like, what fits our system.”
Wilson was just as complimentary, calling Kafka “brilliant” and “quarterback-minded.”
“We’ve built something strong in a short time,” Wilson said. “We’re all working together to make this offense explosive.”
Unsung Growth: Tracy Jr., the Tight Ends, and Evan Neal
Running back Tyrone Tracy Jr. has emerged as a reliable and versatile weapon. Wilson and Kafka both noted his ability to break off long runs and catch passes out of the backfield.
“He’s got that dog in him,” Nabers added. “He brings energy, leadership, and a big-play mindset.”
The tight end room has also impressed. Wilson noted Theo Johnson‘s ability to stretch the field, while praising Daniel Bellinger for his consistency and Greg Dulcich for his dynamic ability in space. Chris Manhertz and Thomas Fidone round out what looks to be a deep and varied group.
On the offensive line, Evan Neal’s transition to guard continues to draw positive reviews.
“It’s not easy to move inside,” Kafka said. “But he’s communicating well, executing his assignments — and he’s growing fast.”
Defensive Identity Taking Shape
The Giants’ defense continues to lead the charge in camp, consistently making plays, forcing turnovers, and winning in one-on-ones. Bowen emphasized communication as a major point of pride — something echoed by players across every position group.
“We’ve got guys talking pre-snap, reading each other, trusting each other,” he said. “That’s how good defenses are built.”
Jevón Holland, Tyler Nubin, and Bobby Okereke have helped foster that communication, while Deonte Banks and Cor’Dale Flott are in a tightly contested battle for a starting corner spot. Banks’ pick of Wilson was one of the top plays of the day.
Daboll’s Philosophy: “Less Talk, More Doing”
Head Coach Brian Daboll didn’t hold back after practice.
“There’s hype — and there’s action. Only one of them matters,” he said. “We’re building a physical team, a smart team. But we’re not there yet. Not even close.”
He praised the growth of center John Michael Schmitz Jr., the consistency of Darius Slayton, and the work ethic across the board — but remains focused on results.
“You want to be a good football team? Earn it. Every day.”
Looking Ahead: Preseason Opener in Buffalo
The Giants will now turn their attention to Saturday’s preseason opener against the Buffalo Bills. Daboll said the staff hasn’t finalized how much playing time starters will receive, but emphasized the importance of game-speed reps — especially for players like Dart.
“There’s no substitute for real football,” Daboll said. “You can only simulate so much in practice.”
Wilson is eager to play. “I’m always ready to go. Doesn’t matter if it’s preseason or Week 17 — put the pads on and let’s roll.”
Final Thought: The defense continues to carry the day, but the offense has the talent — particularly when Nabers is on the field. With the preseason set to begin, the pressure now shifts from installation to execution.
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