Image Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

“Too Soon to Pull the Plug” – NFL Analyst Slams Giants for Firing Brian Daboll, Highlights Budding Connection With Jaxson Dart

Image Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

The New York Giants’ decision to fire head coach Brian Daboll has drawn sharp criticism, with former NFL quarterback Dan Orlovsky calling the move a mistake. Orlovsky argued that Daboll deserved more time to build on his developing relationship with rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart, who has shown flashes of promise despite injuries.

Brian Daboll was dismissed following Sunday’s 24-20 loss to the Chicago Bears, a game in which New York surrendered yet another fourth-quarter lead. It marked the latest in a string of collapses that have defined the Giants’ season.

“I’m of the belief that this is a mistake by the New York Giants,” Dan Orlovsky said on ESPN. “It was clear that the quarterback and head coach had something going together – at least there’s production, performance together and hope.”

"This is a mistake by the New York Giants."

Dan Orlovsky believes former HC Brian Daboll and Jaxson Dart "had something going together." pic.twitter.com/OPOm5typEr
— ESPN (@espn) November 10, 2025

Orlovsky noted that injuries to key offensive players, including wide receiver Malik Nabers and running back Cam Skattebo, made Daboll’s job more difficult. Nabers tore his ACL in Week 4, while Skattebo suffered a dislocated ankle in Week 8. Despite those setbacks, the Giants managed to build multiple double-digit leads, only to see their defense falter late.

The defensive struggles have been glaring. New York ranks 27th in points allowed and 29th in yards allowed. During their current five-game losing streak, the Giants have been outscored 75-37 in fourth quarters. Edge rusher Brian Burns has been a bright spot with an NFL-leading 11 sacks, but the secondary has failed to provide consistent support.

Giants Ownership Cites Years of Frustration in Announcing Coaching Change

Team president John Mara and chairman Steve Tisch issued a joint statement announcing the change. “The past few seasons have been nothing short of disappointing, and we have not met our expectations for this franchise,” they said. “We understand the frustrations of our fans, and we will work to deliver a significantly improved product.” Offensive coordinator Mike Kafka has been named interim head coach.

Dart’s performance has been one of the few positives. Through seven starts, he has thrown for 1,417 yards, rushed for 317, and accounted for 17 total touchdowns. However, he left Sunday’s game with a head injury and is listed as questionable with a concussion.

The inability to close games ultimately sealed Brian Daboll’s fate. The Giants have blown multiple double-digit fourth-quarter leads this season, including collapses against Denver and Chicago. Those repeated failures overshadowed the offensive progress and contributed to the team’s slide to the bottom of the NFC standings.

Looking ahead, New York will host the Green Bay Packers in Week 11 before traveling to Detroit and New England. A Week 14 bye looms, but the franchise faces mounting pressure to stabilize after another disappointing campaign.