Giants’ Dysfunction Continues as Schoen, Daboll Face Playoff Mandate

The New York Giants are under intense scrutiny after a disastrous 2024 season, finishing with a 3-14 record and missing the playoffs for the seventh time in eight years. General Manager Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll are set to return for the 2025 season, but internal dysfunction and questionable decision-making have raised doubts about their ability to turn the franchise around.

According to ESPN, the Giants’ front office has been criticized for operating as if they were influenced by social media reactions. “It’s like they make moves off Twitter,” an NFL source familiar with the team’s inner workings told ESPN. This sentiment was echoed by players who felt misled about their roles and playing time throughout the season.

One of the most glaring examples of the Giants’ mismanagement involved cornerback Darnay Holmes. The team reportedly asked Holmes to take a pay cut from his $2.98 million contract before Week 4, despite his willingness to stay at his agreed salary. Holmes was eventually released in November and signed with the Philadelphia Eagles. Schoen allegedly told Holmes’ representatives, “Don’t pay October’s rent, all right? As soon as I can replace him, I’m going to replace him. I’m not f—ing around.”

The Giants also faced backlash for their handling of veteran players, including Saquon Barkley, who left for the Eagles after a standout season. Barkley, a two-time Pro Bowler, became the ninth running back in NFL history to rush for 2,000 yards in a season. His departure left a leadership void in the locker room, with players reportedly feeling the team underestimated his impact on team morale.

Quarterback instability further highlighted the Giants’ struggles. The team alternated between Tommy DeVito and Drew Lock four times from Week 11 through the end of the season, leaving players and fans frustrated. “More than a handful of players spoke of being misled and left to dangle in the wind on issues, including their roles changing or snaps dwindling, without sufficient explanation,” ESPN’s Jordan Raanan reported.

Owner John Mara has reportedly issued a playoff mandate for the 2025 season, placing Schoen and Daboll under immense pressure to deliver results. If the Giants fail to improve, both could be on the chopping block, fulfilling what many fans and analysts believe should have happened after the 2024 season.