The New York Giants had an eventful week both on and off the field, as the NFL and NFLPA handed down disciplinary fines related to a concussion protocol violation, while the franchise also welcomed a new minority partner to its ownership group.
Concussion Protocol Violation and Fines
The NFL and NFLPA completed a joint review of how the Giants handled quarterback Jaxson Dart’s concussion evaluation during the team’s Week Six game against the Philadelphia Eagles on October 9.
After reviewing reports, video, and conducting interviews with medical staff, independent consultants, coaches, and players, the league and union concluded that all medical steps were properly followed in evaluating Dart. However, the team was cited for a procedural violation when Head Coach Brian Daboll and running back Cam Skattebo entered the sideline blue medical tent before the evaluation was complete.
Although their presence did not affect the actual medical exam, the NFL deemed it a breach of the protocol’s requirements, which state that only medical personnel are allowed in the tent or locker room during an evaluation. The joint review determined that Daboll’s and Skattebo’s actions created the perception of interference and were inconsistent with the league’s standards.
As a result:
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The Giants organization was fined $200,000.
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Head Coach Brian Daboll was fined $100,000.
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Running back Cam Skattebo was fined $15,000.
The Giants quickly took remedial steps, including additional training for staff and players on concussion protocol compliance, and enhanced measures to secure the medical tent during evaluations.
Julia Koch Joins Giants Ownership Group
In brighter news, the Giants announced that Julia Koch and her family have acquired a minority, non-controlling interest in the franchise. The investment was formally approved by NFL owners at the League Meeting on October 22.
The addition of the Koch family does not alter the Giants’ leadership structure—John Mara remains President and CEO, and Steve Tisch continues as Executive Vice President and Chairman of the Board.
Mara and Tisch both expressed enthusiasm for the partnership:
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“On behalf of the entire Mara family, I would like to welcome Julia and her family to the New York Giants,” Mara said. “It was clear during our discussions that Julia and her family understood the importance of this franchise to the Mara and Tisch families and the relationship we have with our fans and community.”
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Tisch added, “With an ever-evolving sports landscape, we have a partnership that will strengthen our organization.”
Julia Koch, a prominent philanthropist, brings a strong background in both business and community service. She currently serves on the boards of Koch, Inc., Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and is the founder of the Julia Koch Family Foundation. Her family also invested in BSE Global, the parent company of the Brooklyn Nets, New York Liberty, and Barclays Center, in 2024.
Koch called the opportunity an honor, saying: “My family and I are honored to join the Giants organization, a storied franchise with deep roots in New York. We look forward to supporting the Mara and Tisch families to advance the team’s continued success.”
Looking Ahead
The Giants’ week was marked by both accountability and opportunity. While the concussion protocol violation served as a costly reminder of league standards, the introduction of Julia Koch and her family into the ownership group signals continued growth and stability for one of the NFL’s cornerstone franchises.
Established in 1925, the Giants are fresh off their 100th anniversary season in 2024 and remain the only NFL team to win a championship in four consecutive decades.
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