Blogging The Boys
How many wins do you think the Giants will have this season?
Russell Wilson gets positive reviews from teammates.
John Schmeelk: I’m anxious to see what defensive coordinator Shane Bowen ends up doing with the secondary. I interviewed more than 20 members of the defense at Media Day, and all of the returning players expressed how the playbook has been expanded with the influx of talent this offseason. It is easy to imagine the variable fronts Bowen can use with all the defensive linemen and edge rushers, but I am curious to see how he is going to use the secondary.
Two of the Giants’ biggest additions in free agency both came in the secondary, and I think their additions can change fundamentally how the Giants run their defense. Adding Jevón Holland at safety as a truly interchangeable piece with Tyler Nubin will give Bowen the opportunity to use a lot more pre-snap disguises combined with post-snap movement to confuse opposing quarterbacks. With the pass rush expected to get into the backfield quickly, any hesitation from the quarterback could lead to sacks. Holland’s ability to communicate should also help in this endeavor.
Dan Salomone: As I wrote about in “Fact or Fiction” last week, Russell Wilson’s effect really started to come to light the deeper we got into OTAs. Darius Slayton said there is “a lot of new energy” even though the Giants’ returned most of their starters from a year ago. But that’s what happens when you add a 10-time Pro Bowler and Super Bowl champion at the most important position in all of sports. His leadership is felt on offense, on defense, on the field, and off the field. Most importantly, he can still sling it.
“His knowledge of the game has shown already,” Slayton said. “Obviously, he has amazing talent with the ball. Accuracy, great touch on the deep balls. I don’t really know that he’s missed more than one or two deep balls this whole camp. He is really accurate, really smart. He’s helped keep us in good plays throughout the whole camp. So, his impact has been felt for sure.”
Percy Butler is definitely making an impression.
The Washington Commanders are giving everyone a chance to showcase their skills in pursuit of different roles in 2025. One player under more pressure than most is taking on the significant challenge and thriving according to reports.
Being in a contract year makes players think differently. Once secure futures are changed quickly. Stakes are raised with financial rewards attached, and this extra urgency typically brings about improved performance levels. It’s early days, but the Commanders are starting to see more from Percy Butler when all hope seemed lost.
It’s a big year...
