It’s only May, but New York Giants head coach Brian Daboll understands better than most that championships are shaped long before the first snap in September.
Standing at the podium at the Quest Diagnostics Training Center on May 28, 2025, Daboll wasn’t just recapping a routine OTA session. He was outlining a vision. One built on fundamentals, accountability, player development — and yes, urgency.
“It’s good to get out here and execute schemes against the opponent, defense or offense,” Daboll told reporters. “We’ve had a productive month and a half since they’ve been back. Everybody’s here today… we’ve had great attendance throughout the offseason program.”
This year’s Phase Three of OTAs isn’t just another chapter in the Giants’ offseason program. It’s a pivotal reintroduction for a team seeking a fresh identity following an uneven, injury-riddled 2024 campaign. With a retooled quarterback room, a revamped offensive line, and foundational veterans returning from injury, Daboll is attempting to strike a balance between preparation and preservation — building chemistry without risking setbacks.
Quarterback Carousel: Wilson Leads, Dart Waits
The quarterback room, arguably the most scrutinized unit of this offseason, is under a controlled spotlight. After signing veteran Russell Wilson and bringing back Jameis Winston, the Giants used a high pick on former Ole Miss signal-caller Jaxson Dart — a move that hinted at future planning but still leaves questions about 2025’s pecking order.
“They’ll all get reps,” Daboll reiterated. “We’ve got a plan for that and we’ve been working that since they’ve been here.”
For now, Wilson is QB1 — and Daboll made it clear why:
“He’s a pro. There’s a reason why he’s had the career he’s had. His work ethic, his commitment to being the best version of himself, how he’s out here at practice, his leadership… he’s been a good addition.”
Wilson’s early impressions haven’t gone unnoticed by teammates either. According to several in attendance, his command of the huddle, communication with the offensive line, and willingness to mentor both Dart and Winston have brought stability to a room that lacked it during Jones’ turbulent final year.
Still, Daboll didn’t shy away from the importance of reps and adaptability. With three very different quarterback styles, flexibility in scheme and evaluation will be critical.
O-Line Realignment: Evan Neal’s Fresh Start
Perhaps the most eyebrow-raising news from the presser was confirmation that former first-round pick Evan Neal is being transitioned from tackle to guard.
“He’s a smart guy. We’ll work him at guard… I know he’s excited about the opportunity,” said Daboll.
Neal’s struggles at right tackle were well-documented, but the move inside may unlock the physicality and anchor strength that made him a top-10 pick out of Alabama. Daboll acknowledged the positional change is more than cosmetic — it’s part of a plan to get the best five linemen on the field.
“He’s got length… he’s obviously a little bit taller than a traditional guard, but he’s played it. He’s played a number of positions since Alabama.”
Add in new free-agent addition Jon Runyan and a healthy Andrew Thomas — who is still working his way back — and the Giants are cautiously optimistic about reshaping one of last year’s weakest units.
Injury Management and Rehab Transparency
Injuries plagued the Giants in 2024, derailing any consistency or continuity. This year, Daboll appears determined to protect his stars and lean into long-term strategy.
Malik Nabers — last year’s explosive rookie breakout — is being held out as he rehabs a toe injury, one he’s been dealing with since college.
“We’re being mindful of his toe… nothing serious, but we’re being smart with him,” Daboll said. “He didn’t have a procedure.”
The same goes for left tackle Andrew Thomas, defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, and others including corner Paulson Adebo and safety Anthony Johnson. While Daboll declined to disclose every procedure or rehab detail, his message was clear: It’s May. They’re building for August and beyond.
“Each of those players have individual rehab plans… if they can do something, they will. If they can’t, we’ll keep rehabbing them.”
This cautious, player-first approach shows the maturity of a coach who’s grown from reactive to proactive after multiple injury-marred seasons.
Giants Legends in the Building: A Cultural Reset
One of the most personal moments of the presser came when Daboll discussed the presence of several former Giants legends at practice this spring — including Lawrence Taylor, Michael Strahan, Justin Tuck, and Eli Manning.
“It’s something I thought about at the end of last season,” Daboll admitted. “To bring in guys and give a good message about what it means to be a Giant.”
Far from ceremonial, these visits are part of a larger effort to reestablish organizational identity. As young players like Nabers, Dart, and Abdul Carter look to build legacies of their own, hearing from Hall of Famers and Super Bowl champions grounds them in Giants tradition.
“I think it’s good for these players to hear from guys that have done it at a high level… not just for the Giants, but for the NFL.”
The Value of Voluntary
Despite the voluntary nature of OTAs, Daboll emphasized the unity of the group — not just showing up, but buying in.
“It shows they care a lot about it,” Daboll said. “The more guys you have work with one another and learn about each other… on and off the field… that matters.”
Attendance, culture, and structure — they’re not buzzwords. They’re bricks in the foundation of a team trying to reestablish itself as a contender in a hypercompetitive NFC East.
Looking Ahead: Joint Practices, Training Camp Plans
While Daboll didn’t offer specifics yet, he acknowledged the team is exploring joint practices once training camp begins in late July.
“Working through that now,” he said. “More on that in due time.”
The joint sessions — potentially against AFC opponents — could accelerate the Giants’ evaluation process, particularly at quarterback, interior offensive line, and defensive back.
Final Thought: A Coach in Command
Daboll’s press conference wasn’t flashy. It wasn’t full of dramatic declarations. But in typical Daboll fashion, it was efficient, measured, and informative. After a disappointing 6–11 campaign last year and several front office shifts, this offseason feels different.
There’s structure. There’s vision. There’s a quarterback plan. There’s a cultural message being reinforced through former Giants legends. And above all, there’s patience.
It’s only May. But for the New York Giants, the tone has been set — and the climb back has quietly begun.
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