A New Hope: My 2023 New York Giants Season Preview
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Football season is back, and this time, I promise not to be emo. Yes, if you joined me last September, you might’ve noticed a certain nihilism regarding my New York Giants.
…Not this year, baby. This year, we’ve got the Coach of the Year!
All Hail Brian Daboll
After suffering six seasons of being coached by an underachiever, a clown, and a man wielding a Denny’s menu, the Giants finally hired a legitimate head coach in Brian Daboll. I wish I could say I’d been a fan of the decision.
I wasn’t. In fact, before last season began, I described Daboll’s hiring as a “dubious offseason move.”
I’ve never been happier to be wrong. Though there were many reasons for the Giants first playoff appearance in six years, Daboll was the most impactful. Unlike his predecessors, his game management was excellent, his game plans were even better, and he maximized a below average roster. Which brings me to my next point.
A Not-Below-Average Roster
Yes, it’s improving. General Manager Joe Schoen and his staff were singing “Hello Goodbye” this offseason to the following players:
Goodbyes
- Nick Gates signed with the Washington Commanders, for some reason.
- Jon Feliciano joined the San Francisco 49ers, which seems like a good decision.
- Richie James went to the Kansas City Chiefs, where he will now drop passes from Patrick Mahomes.
- Fabian Moreau departed for the Denver Broncos, though he might return to the Giants after spending a day or two around Russell Wilson.
- Julian Love left us for the Seattle Seahawks, and that feels like a legit loss.
Hellos
- Deonte Banks was drafted in the first round, which should address a glaring hole.
- John Michael Schmitz was drafted in the second, a move ESPN described as “an excellent pick in terms of value and filling a need.”
- Jalin Hyatt arrived in the third round, and the dude’s got wheels.
- Parris Campbell, Jamison Crowder, and Cole Beasley all add depth at…
