Daboll Reveals Why Giants Rookies Didn't Play in Preseason Finale

The New York Giants finished their preseason in quiet fashion against the New York Jets, falling 10-6 in MetLife Stadium on Saturday night.

Predictably, New York didn’t play any of its stars. The usual suspects were held out, as was almost every single starter. Center John Michael Schmitz played, but got a quick hook after getting rolled up on.

However, it was somewhat surprising to see no members of the Giants 2024 NFL Draft class on the field for Saturday’s festivities.

After the game, head coach Brian Daboll explained his decision.

“One, I think we've practiced the right way,” We had 140 or 140 plus snaps of more team reps in pads than we did the year before. We had over 500 more team reps when you include OTAs and training camp than we did the year before. In terms of the planning and the preparation, plus we practiced against two teams. So that was the reasoning.”

The Giants got an extended look at their rookie class this summer. Safety Tyler Nubin missed the start of training camp with a minor leg injury, and tight end Theo Johnson saw his camp delayed with a hip, but for the most part, it was smooth sailing for New York.

Chief among them, of course, is receiver Malik Nabers. He was likely never going to appear in the contest given his vital importance to the offensive plans this season. But there’s plenty of reason to be optimistic about what he’ll bring to the table. Simply put, he had nothing to prove against backup corners.

Dru Phillips and Nubin also figure to start, despite the safety’s delayed arrival at camp. Running back Tyrone Tracy, meanwhile, may not be back to 100 percent after his recent ankle scare. While not a major concern, that likely cemented his status on the sideline for Saturday. Johnson’s absence is indicative of his secure roster spot – the Giants have plans for him on Sundays.

Related: Giants vs. Jets: Injuries Spoil Preseason Finale

Likewise, linebacker Darius Muasau was held out of action. It’s easy to see him playing in a scenario in which New York wasn’t already critically thin at the position, but preseason injuries have forced him up the depth chart, and it would have been reckless to put him at risk in the exhibition.

Fortunately, New York’s rookie class is healthy and primed to see legitimate playing time early in the season. If nothing else, not appearing in the preseason finale is further evidence of the team’s confidence in their roles and how much more important it was for other fringe players to take those snaps.