The New York Giants have parted ways with Brian Daboll, a native of Welland, Ont., as head coach after the team’s record fell to 2-8 following a defeat to Chicago. Offensive coordinator Mike Kafka has been appointed as the interim head coach. The decision to dismiss Daboll came after the Giants lost 24-20 to the Bears, squandering another lead in the late stages of the game.
Giants owners John Mara and Steve Tisch explained in a statement that the franchise needed a change at the head coaching position due to disappointing performances in recent seasons. Despite the coaching change, the rest of Daboll’s coaching staff, including defensive coordinator Shane Bowen, will remain with the team.
The Giants have experienced a four-game losing streak since their victory over the Philadelphia Eagles last month, marking their third midseason coaching change in almost a century. Daboll, who had a 20-40-1 record in his first head coaching role, led the team to the playoffs in his debut season but struggled to maintain success since then.
Following the decision to let go of Daboll, Joe Schoen will continue as the general manager, overseeing the search for a new head coach. The owners expressed confidence in Schoen’s ability to develop the team’s young talent despite the recent lackluster performance on the field.
Kafka, a former assistant under Andy Reid with limited playing experience, will take charge of the Giants in the midst of a challenging season marred by injuries to key players like Jaxson Dart and Cam Skattebo. The team’s disappointing results over the past few years have led to the coaching change, with the owners emphasizing their commitment to delivering the success expected by fans.
Daboll, known for his offensive expertise, is expected to attract interest from other NFL teams in the upcoming season, although a return to Buffalo, where he previously served as offensive coordinator, is unlikely. Bills head coach Sean McDermott expressed respect for Daboll’s coaching abilities and ruled out any immediate reunion with him in Buffalo.