Big Blue Report: Do We Owe Brian Daboll And Joe Schoen An Apology?

Introduction: A Rocky Start

The New York Giants, once a proud and dominant NFL franchise, have experienced a series of highs and lows over the past few years. The future of the franchise seemed uncertain after a tumultuous stretch that involved the departure of key players, a string of injuries, and significant front-office questions. Most notably, the Daniel Jones contract saga, which caused division among fans and analysts, and the controversial loss of Saquon Barkley to the rival Philadelphia Eagles, set the stage for an offseason where the Giants appeared to be on the brink.

In the face of adversity, head coach Brian Daboll and general manager Joe Schoen stood at the helm of a ship in rough waters. Their decisions and leadership have come under scrutiny as the Giants’ fanbase and the media voiced doubts about their future. But as the dust begins to settle, it may be time to ask an important question: Do we owe Brian Daboll and Joe Schoen an apology?

Injuries and Turmoil: A Team in Crisis

Injuries crippled the Giants’ offense, and the team struggled to maintain consistency. The uncertainty around Daniel Jones’ contract negotiations loomed large, leaving the team with more questions than answers. Jones had flashed potential, but his inability to stay healthy and his underwhelming performance in the 2023 season had left many wondering if he could truly be the quarterback of the future.

Meanwhile, the Saquon Barkley situation was a headache that wouldn’t go away. The All-Pro running back was locked in a contract dispute with the team, with no clear resolution in sight. When Barkley ultimately left for the Eagles, many saw this as a direct blow to the franchise’s identity. Losing a generational talent to a divisional rival left Giants fans reeling. Was this a clear sign that Schoen and Daboll couldn’t get the job done?

The Turning Point: The 2025 NFL Draft

As the 2025 NFL Draft approached, the Giants’ brain trust was under immense pressure. Would Schoen and Daboll be able to navigate their way out of this mess, or would their tenure in New York be doomed by missed opportunities?

The draft, however, proved to be the redemption story that no one saw coming. Schoen and Daboll were able to make bold, strategic moves that addressed key areas of need for the team. Their decisions showcased a level of foresight and competence that has shifted the narrative surrounding their leadership.

The Draft’s Impact:

• The Giants’ first-round pick, Jaxson Dart, showed potential as a long-term solution at quarterback, a move that solidified their commitment to stability at the position.

• Abdul Carter, selected to bolster the defense, provides a much-needed pass-rushing presence that could help rejuvenate the Giants’ defense.

• The Giants’ ability to secure solid talent across multiple positions showed that Schoen and Daboll were committed to building a well-rounded team.

For the first time in years, the draft didn’t just fill holes—it laid the foundation for a potentially explosive future. The excitement surrounding the new players and the reshaped roster has sparked hope among Giants fans that their team is finally on the right track.

The Rebuilding Process: Building from the Ground Up

While the draft was a major success, it’s important to remember that rebuilding a team is a process—one that doesn’t yield immediate results. It’s easy to expect a quick turnaround, especially after a promising draft, but as any football expert will tell you, true success in the NFL takes time.

As Schoen and Daboll continue to shape the roster, they are focusing on building a foundation for sustained success. It takes time to rebuild a team. The Giants had to tear down what was broken, and as painful as it may have been, the “rock-bottom” season of 2023 was an essential part of the rebuilding process. The franchise now finds itself reloading with young, dynamic talent, including standout rookies like Dart and Carter, along with others who will be key contributors to the team’s future.

Last year, Schoen and Daboll began developing younger players, and that effort will continue in the 2025 season. As the new wave of talent gels with the more seasoned players, the team will continue to develop and refine their roster. While it might not be the 2025 season that brings the Giants back to prominence, 2026 and 2027 could very well be the years when we see the Giants truly return to form. With the solid foundation they are laying now, the future is beginning to look much brighter for New York football.

The Apology: A Turnaround We Didn’t Expect

Looking back, the skepticism surrounding Daboll and Schoen now seems to have been based on short-term frustration and the understandable emotional investment fans had in key players like Barkley. But in hindsight, their actions—the decision to let go of Barkley and take a strategic approach to the future—may prove to be what the franchise needed in the long run.

Schoen’s methodical and calculated approach to building the team through the draft, even at the expense of fan favorites, has been vindicated. Daboll’s leadership, which has shown a balance of toughness and adaptability, is beginning to bear fruit. It’s clear that their work is far from over, but the foundation has been set for the Giants to rise again as an NFC contender.

As the 2025 season looms, it’s safe to say that the direction of the Giants is no longer in question. And perhaps, it’s time for those of us who doubted them to issue a humble apology for questioning their vision.

The Giants’ future is bright, and the people responsible for that shift are Daboll and Schoen. Their bold decisions have put them back in the conversation of successful team-builders in the NFL.