Since Brian Daboll and Mike Kafka took charge of the offense, the Giants have ranked 30th, 29th, and 18th in total offense across three seasons—a major disappointment for a duo once expected to spark a turnaround. That trend continued in Week 1, when the Giants mustered just over 200 total yards in a 21-6 loss to the Commanders.
The offensive line was at the heart of the struggles. Russell Wilson looked out of sync, running backs Tyrone Tracy and Cam Skattebo were bottled up, and outside of Malik Nabers, the receivers failed to contribute.
Bleacher Report’s Brent Sobleski listed the Giants’ offense among the weekend’s biggest disappointments, pointing the finger squarely at the line: “The offensive front was a major area of concern for the Giants entering the season, and those worries appear to have been well-founded. Whether it was run blocking or pass protection, Big Blue were pushed around throughout the game by a Commanders team that wasn’t known for having a fearsome front in 2024.”
The Giants’ offense has too many red flags to keep track of
Week 1 highlighted all the concerns about New York’s offensive line. With Andrew Thomas sidelined, the group looked out of sync, allowing the Commanders to rack up two sacks and seven tackles for loss. On top of that, Evan Neal was a healthy scratch, a decision that only adds urgency to his uncertain future in East Rutherford.
Malik Nabers remained a constant threat and showed good chemistry with Russell Wilson, but that was the lone bright spot from the Giants’ offense on Sunday.
Wilson, at 36, struggled mightily—posting a 25.5 QBR, a sub-60 passer rating, and completing only 46% of his throws. The unit looked directionless, and what was expected to be a promising collection of playmakers instead raised more concerns in the season opener.
Sobleski also noted that Jaxson Dart’s name will “be discussed a lot” following Week 1. After an impressive preseason, fans are eager to see the rookie first-rounder get his opportunity, and momentum appears to be building toward that possibility.
Still, Brian Daboll has been firm that Russell Wilson will remain the starter—for now. The Giants signed both the 10-time Pro Bowler and former No. 1 overall pick Jameis Winston to avoid forcing rookie Jaxson Dart into the lineup before Daboll and Mike Kafka believe he’s ready.
For many fans, though, this feels like déjà vu. Back in 2019, Daniel Jones replaced Eli Manning in Week 4, and while that move brought one playoff run, it also led to Jones landing what is now viewed as the worst contract in franchise history.
Wilson and the offense stumbled out of the gate, and Week 2 against Dallas looms as the next chance to right the ship. If the struggles continue, however, it may only be a matter of time before Dart gets the call—and the pressure on Daboll intensifies even more.