With the calendar flipped to July, Giants.com asks 20 important questions heading into the team's 2020 training camp at the Quest Diagnostics Training Center.
For the next 20 days, a member of the Giants.com crew will answer one question about the roster, coaching staff, schedule, and much more.
No. 9: What are your expectations for QB Daniel Jones?
Lance Medow: For any quarterback entering his second year in the league, the expectations are pretty simple: show improvement across the board. Evaluating a signal-caller isn't just about fantasy football numbers, so I certainly won't dedicate the bulk of my response to a mathematical equation. As it goes without saying, the Giants want to see his stats trend upwards. Case in point: Eli Manning, who played in slightly fewer games than Daniel Jones during his rookie year in 2004, improved his production in just about every statistical category in his second year in the league. But there's one notable difference between year two for Manning and Jones. Manning had the same head coach and play-caller.
Why do I bring up the changes on the coaching staff? Well, that ties right into expectations. For the bulk of the roster, this will be the second or third new scheme players are learning in as many seasons, and when you have a young roster, you never know how the learning curve will play out. This will be Jones' third offense in three years, and now he is adjusting to Jason Garrett's scheme during a virtual process with no on-field work up to this point. This isn't to say that Jones can't handle a new system. How young players deal with change is a true test and can be a challenge. That's something to watch as the season progresses and something to keep in mind when placing expectations on a player.
If there's one stat to watch, it's Jones' fumble rate. He fumbled the ball 18 times (and lost 11) in 12 starts or 1.5 fumbles per start. Ball security is critical for all players but even more important for quarterbacks, who touch the ball on every play. Jones obviously knows this better than anyone and made it his focus this offseason. If both Jones and the offense want to make strides in 2020, they have to maximize possessions and avoid cutting down on the volume of opportunities, or what I like to call at-bats.
View photos of Giants quarterback Daniel Jones throughout his NFL career.
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) scores on a 7-yard touchdown run against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 13 regular season game against the Green Bay Packers at MetLife Stadium on Sunday December 1st, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) reacts after throwing a touchdown pass in the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021. (AP Photo/Brett Duke)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs with the ball during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones in action during an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 1 game against the Denver Broncos on September 12th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8), Billy Price (69)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) reacts after a touchdown against the Atlanta Falcons during an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 26, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones in action during an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) drops back to pass as he looks downfield for a receiver in an NFL game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. The Washington Football Team defeated the Giants 30-29. (Margaret Bowles via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) and running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrate a touchdown during a week 3 football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday September 26th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs downfield with the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) scrambles in the first half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021. (AP Photo/Derick Hingle)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) celebrates after scoring a touchdown with wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) against the Washington Football Team during an NFL game, Thursday, Sep. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. Washington beat the Giants 30-29. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) calls a play in the huddle during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones warms-up before an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs 7-yards for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones, second from left, runs the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) is congratulated after throwing a touchdown pass during an NFL game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday Dec.1 2019 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Packers defeated the Giants 31-13. (Damian Strohmeyer via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) talks to his team mates before an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers Sunday December 1st, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks for a receiver during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers Sunday December 1st, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones stands on the field before an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants offensive lineman Mike Remmers (74) celebrates with quarterback Daniel Jones (8) after a touchdown during an NFL game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. The Bears defeated the Colts 19-14. (Greg Trott via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers Sunday December 1st, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones looks to pass during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) warms up before an NFL football game against the New York Jets Sunday, Nov. 10, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks to pass the ball during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Cowboys defeated the Giants 37-18. (Joe Robbins via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) celebrates with quarterback Daniel Jones (8) after Shepard scored a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during the Nation Anthem before an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones, left, celebrates with Sterling Shepard after a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) talks with New York Giants wide receiver Golden Tate (15) during a Monday Night NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys Monday November 4, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones, left, greets Washington Redskins quarterback Dwayne Haskins after an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Redskins 24-3. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes during an NFL game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. The Bears defeated the Colts 19-14. (Greg Trott via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley takes a handoff from quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the New York Jets, Sunday Nov. 10, 2019 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Jets defeated the Giants 34-27. (Damian Strohmeyer via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws the ball prior to an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Dallas won 37-18. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) and Eli Manning (10) before a Monday Night NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys Monday November 4, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones, right, celebrates a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Golden Tate (15) and quarterback Daniel Jones (8) celebrate after a touchdown against the Dallas Cowboys during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Antwaun Woods (99) pursues New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, NJ. The Cowboys defeated the Giants, 38-17. (James D. Smith via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs the ball against the Dallas Cowboys during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) celebrates his touchdown run against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with wide receiver Darius Slayton (86) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) calls an audible at the line of scrimmage during the first quarter of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs for a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. The Giants defeated the Buccaneers 32-31. (Perry Knotts via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) and quarterback Eli Manning (10) warm up before an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
QB Daniel Jones (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes against the Dallas Cowboys during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws the ball during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Dallas won 37-18. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws against the Chicago Bears during the first half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws the ball during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Dallas won 37-18. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks to pass against the Dallas Cowboys during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks to pass during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Eagles won 34-17. (AP Photo/Vera Nieuwenhuis)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes against the Dallas Cowboys during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) goes back to pass during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Eagles won 34-17. (AP Photo/Vera Nieuwenhuis)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass during an NFL football game against the New York Jets, Sunday Nov. 10, 2019 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Jets defeated the Giants 34-27. (Damian Strohmeyer via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks to pass during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Eagles won 34-17. (AP Photo/Vera Nieuwenhuis)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) scrambles during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Dallas won 37-18. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones looks to pass against the Washington Redskins during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs with the ball during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles Sunday December 29th, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones looks to pass against the Washington Redskins during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) hands off ball to running back Saquon Barkley (26) during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Eagles won 34-17. (AP Photo/Vera Nieuwenhuis)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles Sunday December 29th, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday December 22nd, 2019 in Landover, Md (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) goes to high five a teammate in the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) directs his team in the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday December 22nd, 2019 in Landover, Md (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) reacts in the second half of an NFL football game against the New York Giants, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) scrambles for yardage during an NFL game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday Dec.1 2019 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Packers defeated the Giants 31-13. (Damian Strohmeyer via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones, right, throws during the second half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass against the Washington Redskins during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones works out prior to an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Mark Tenally)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) drops back to pass during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers Sunday December 1st, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday December 22nd, 2019 in Landover, Md (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones throws during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass during the second half of an NFL football game against the New York Jets Sunday, Nov. 10, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Steven Ryan)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) greets defensive back Sam Beal (23) and cornerback Antonio Hamilton (30) while taking the field for workouts prior to an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) scrambles for yardage during an NFL game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday Dec.1 2019 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Packers defeated the Giants 31-13. (Damian Strohmeyer via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones works out prior to an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers Sunday December 1st, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones rolls out to pass against the Chicago Bears during the first half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers Sunday December 1st, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws against the Chicago Bears during the first half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) makes a pass during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Green Bay Packers won 31-13. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) rolls out to pass during an NFL game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019, in Chicago. The Bear defeated the Giants 19-14. (Kevin Terrell via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers Sunday December 1st, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws against the Chicago Bears during the second half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) hands the ball off to New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Green Bay Packers won 31-13. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones looks to pass during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks to pass during the second half of an NFL football game against the New York Jets Sunday, Nov. 10, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) warms up before an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes the football during an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. The Bears defeated the Giants 19-14. (Scott Boehm via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones warms-up before an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes during an NFL game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. The Bears defeated the Colts 19-14. (Greg Trott via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes during an NFL game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. The Bears defeated the Colts 19-14. (Greg Trott via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks to pass the ball during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Cowboys defeated the Giants 37-18. (Joe Robbins via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes during an NFL game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. The Bears defeated the Colts 19-14. (Greg Trott via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) prior to an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) drops back to throw against the Chicago Bears during the first half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes during an NFL game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. The Bears defeated the Colts 19-14. (Greg Trott via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass during an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019 in Detroit. The Lions defeated the Giants 31-26. (Joe Robbins via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) celebrates during an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Arizona won 27-21. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones plays against the Detroit Lions during an NFL football game in Detroit, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) celebrates his touchdown throw to New York Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton (86) during an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions in Detroit, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws the ball prior to an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Arizona won 27-21. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) walks thru the tunnel to the field before an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions, Sunday October 27, 2019 in Detroit. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones throws against the Detroit Lions during an NFL football game in Detroit, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) in action against the Detroit Lions during an NFL football game in Detroit, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019. (AP Images/Rick Osentoski)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones throws against the Detroit Lions during an NFL football game in Detroit, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws the ball during an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Arizona won 27-21. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes against the Detroit Lions during an NFL football game in Detroit, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019. (AP Images/Rick Osentoski)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) celebrates during an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Arizona won 27-21. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) rolls out during an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals Sunday October 20, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones looks downfield during the first half of an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Rick Osentoski)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws the ball during an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Arizona won 27-21. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones passes against the New England Patriots in the first half of an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones runs the ball during the second half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones rolls out to pass against the New England Patriots in the first half of an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones runs the ball during the second half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) scores his first NFL touchdown during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday September 22, 2019 in Tampa, Fla. ( Tom DiPace via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones passes against the New England Patriots during an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019 in Foxborough, Mass. (Winslow Townson/AP Images for Panini)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones throws during the first half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones passes against the New England Patriots during an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019 in Foxborough, Mass. (Winslow Townson/AP Images for Panini)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) rolls out of the pocket against the Minnesota Vikings during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones scrambles against the New England Patriots during an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019 in Foxborough, Mass. (Winslow Townson/AP Images for Panini)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) calls out the play during an NFL football game against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, Oct 6, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants lost 28-10. (AP Photo/Vera Nieuwenhuis)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) stands in the tunnel before an NFL football game against the New England Patriots Thursday October 10, 2019 in Foxborough, Mass, (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) calls an audible at the line of scrimmage against the Minnesota Vikings during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) avoids a tackle by Minnesota Vikings middle linebacker Eric Kendricks (54) during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) rolls out of the pocket against the Minnesota Vikings during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks to pass during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday September 22, 2019 in Tampa, Fla. ( Tom DiPace via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday September 29, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019 in Tampa, Fla. The Giants defeated the Buccaneers 32-31. (Joe Robbins via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) reacts with tight end Evan Engram (88) after Wayne Gallman scored a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) carries the ball during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019 in Tampa, Fla. The Giants won 31-31. (Paul Abell via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday September 22, 2019 in Tampa, Fla. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones signals during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs for a game winning touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. The Giants defeated the Buccaneers 32-31. (Perry Knotts via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones warms-up before an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) celebrates the game winning touchdown with wide receiver Darius Slayton (86) during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday September 22, 2019 in Tampa, Fla. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday September 22, 2019 in Tampa, Fla. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones throws during the second half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio, File)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones during the second half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) shakes hands with offensive guard Kevin Zeitler (70) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes against the Minnesota Vikings during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) scrambles against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) rolls out of the pocket against the Minnesota Vikings during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday September 29, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs onto the field for wampups before an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones poses with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell after the New York Giants selected Jones in the first round at the NFL football draft, Thursday, April 25, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones poses with his new jersey after the New York Giants selected Jones in the first round at the NFL football draft, Thursday, April 25, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones takes the stage after the New York Giants selected Jones in the first round at the NFL football draft, Thursday, April 25, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones poses with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell after the New York Giants selected Jones in the first round at the NFL football draft, Thursday, April 25, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones walks the red carpet ahead of the first round at the NFL football draft, Thursday, April 25, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)
FILE - In this March 2, 2019, file photo, Duke quarterback Daniel Jones runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy, File)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones runs the 40-yard dash during the 2019 Scouting Combine in Indianapolis on Saturday, March. 2, 2019. (Perry Knotts via AP)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, March 2, 2019. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones throws the ball during the NFL football scouting combine on Saturday, March 2, 2019 in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones throws a pass during the 2019 Scouting Combine in Indianapolis on Saturday, March. 2, 2019. (Perry Knotts via AP)
North quarterback Daniel Jones, of Duke, throws a pass during the first half of the Senior Bowl college football game, Saturday, Jan. 26, 2019, in Mobile, Ala. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)
North quarterback Daniel Jones of Duke (17) before the start of the Senior Bowl college football game, Saturday, Jan. 26, 2019, in Mobile, Ala. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)
North quarterback Daniel Jones of Duke (17) throws a pass during practice for Saturday's Senior Bowl college football game, Tuesday, Jan. 22, 2019, in Mobile, Ala. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)
North quarterback Daniel Jones of Duke (17) throws a pass during practice for Saturday's Senior Bowl college football game, Tuesday, Jan. 22, 2019, in Mobile, Ala. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones (17) passes during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Notre Dame, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2016, in South Bend, Ind. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones (17) passes against Virginia Tech during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Durham, N.C., Saturday, Sept. 29, 2018. (AP Photo/Gerry Broome)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones (17) runs during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Miami, Saturday, Nov. 3, 2018, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones (17) runs against Virginia Tech during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Durham, N.C., Saturday, Sept. 29, 2018. (AP Photo/Gerry Broome)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones stands back to pass during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Miami, Saturday, Nov. 3, 2018, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones (17) runs against Virginia during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Durham, N.C., Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018. (AP Photo/Gerry Broome)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones (17) passes against Virginia during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Durham, N.C., Saturday, Oct. 1, 2016. (AP Photo/Gerry Broome)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones (17) passes against Temple during the first half of the Independence Bowl, an NCAA college football game in Shreveport, La., Thursday, Dec. 27, 2018. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones (17) runs against Georgia Tech in the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 29, 2016, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones (17) passes against Virginia Tech during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Durham, N.C., Saturday, Sept. 29, 2018. (AP Photo/Gerry Broome)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones throws a pass against Pittsburgh during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Durham, N.C. (AP Photo/Gerry Broome, File)
Duke's Daniel Jones makes a pass against Northwestern during the first half of an NCAA college football game, in Evanston, Ill. (AP Photo/Jim Young, File)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones looks to pass against Miami during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Durham, N.C., Friday, Sept. 29, 2017. (AP Photo/Gerry Broome)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones (17) runs for a touchdown as North Carolina's Malik Carney (53) pursues during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Durham, N.C., Thursday, Nov. 10, 2016. (AP Photo/Gerry Broome)
Daniel Jones
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones throws during the first half of NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Nov. 29, 2020, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Aaron Doster)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) rushes for a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles Sunday, Nov. 15, 2020, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
Daniel Jones (8)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones in action during an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 1 game against the Denver Broncos on September 12th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16th, 2021 in Landover, Maryland.
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) celebrates a touchdown run during a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16th, 2021 in Landover, Maryland.
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 1 game against the Denver Broncos on September 12th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs with the ball in an NFL game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. The Washington Football Team defeated the Giants 30-29. (Margaret Bowles via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones in action during an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws over Washington Football Team defensive tackle Matt Ioannidis (98) during an NFL game, Thursday, Sep. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. Washington beat the Giants 30-29. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks on against the Washington Football Team during an NFL game, Thursday, Sep. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. Washington beat the Giants 30-29. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks on during the national anthem against the Washington Football Team prior to an NFL Game, Thursday, Sep. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. Washington beat the Giants 30-29. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs the ball against the Washington Football Team during an NFL game, Thursday, Sep. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. Washington beat the Giants 30-29. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs during an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021 in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Daniel Kucin Jr.)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks to pass the ball during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) scoring a touchdown against the Washington Football Team during the first half of an NFL football game, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones in action during an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
Daniel Jones (8), Saquon Barkley (26)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass to Saquon Barkley (26) during a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16th, 2021 in Landover, Maryland.
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) carries the ball during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) carries the ball during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 1 game against the Denver Broncos on September 12th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks to pass after breaking away from Atlanta Falcons defensive end Dante Fowler Jr. (6) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 26, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 1 game against the Denver Broncos on September 12th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks for an open man during the second half of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. Washington won 30 - 29. (AP Photo/Al Drago)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) calls out between plays in the first half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021. (AP Photo/Brett Duke)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones passes during the first half of an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Sept. 26, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Dan Salomone: There are three tenets of being a physical football team. The first two – stopping the run and running the ball – are agreed upon by every head coach. The third can be debated. Some say rush the passer; Joe Judge says it is covering kicks. That is the Nick Saban and the Bill Belichick in him. That is the longtime special teams coach, the three-time Super Bowl champion and two-time college football national champion in him.
"Those are three things you need to do to be a physical team, and you can't win in this league without being a physical team," Judge said during this offseason. "You look at the teams every year whose seasons extend longer than other teams. They do certain things in common. That always kind of goes back to the same traits."
Judge's first task as head coach was putting together a staff which, after a methodical search, included six members who were with the Giants last year. Of those, two coach special teams. Thomas McGaughey returns for his third season as special teams coordinator, and he's assisted by his predecessor, Tom Quinn, who was the Giants' special teams coordinator from 2007-17.
"The experience is important, but the success is more important," Judge said. "They've been doing it at a high success rate for a long time. The fact that they had a relationship working together already, I had a relationship with both guys from going against them and have known them within the profession for some time now. T-Mac and Tom do a tremendous job. I love the way they relate to the players, I love the way they coach their guys. You know when you go against their units that they're going to be sound and they're going to play hard, and that's critical. I have a lot of respect for both of them."
In 2019, the Giants' kickoff coverage team led the NFL by allowing an average return of just 18.1 yards while the punt coverage team finished tied for fifth (5.7 avg.). Conversely, the Giants' return squads were fourth and 10th, respectively, on punts (9.8) and kickoffs (23.5).
In other words, Judge liked what he saw.
The unit should only be stronger with the addition of Judge's expertise and the host of players the Giants signed or drafted this offseason. Most notable is Nate Ebner, the lone player to participate in the Olympics (rugby) and win the NFL championship in the same year. Ebner played in New England from 2012-19, the same eight years Judge was either a Patriots special teams assistant or coordinator. Ebner had more than 10 special teams tackles in six of his eight seasons, and the Patriots won all three Super Bowls in which he played (Ebner was sidelined for New England's loss to Philadelphia in Super Bowl LII after tearing his ACL while running for 14 yards and a first down on a fake punt vs. Miami on Nov. 26, 2017).
The Giants also signed Pro Bowl long snapper and former Bronco Casey Kreiter to take over for two-timer Super Bowl champion and two-time Pro Bowl veteran Zak DeOssie, who remains a free agent. Meanwhile, the team selected four linebackers on the final day of the draft, so you know they will have to learn their stripes on special teams.
"No one really looks at those intricacies as much as they do offense or defense, but they're out there and they're happening every game," Ebner said. "In the kicking game, just as well. Those finer points can be the difference-maker, especially in a phase of the game that's a one-play series. You don't get four downs. You don't have a bunch of opportunities. You get one chance. Sometimes, those opportunities can be game-changing opportunities.
"Those details matter, and I think having played as long as I have, I, hopefully, can kind of build on what I've experienced. That's why I love the kicking game. It's a one-play series that's balls to the wall for the entire time. It's not like you get an incomplete pass and you're back in the deep part of the field, and not covering grass and it's a run play or something like that. Every single play in the kicking game is absolutely full speed and a dog fight. Every single one of them. It's fun."
It also wins games.
John Schmeelk: Since we haven't seen this defense in a practice setting, I can only go based on the limited info that has been mentioned by the players and coaches in their off-season interviews. Head coach Joe Judge indicated it would look similar to what Patrick Graham did in Miami. If so, here are some characteristics Giants fans should expect to see:
Plenty of man-to-man
Only Matt Patricia's Detroit Lions played more Cover 1 than the Dolphins last year, according to Pro Football Focus. Detroit spent 516 of their 1144 snaps playing man-to-man with a single-high safety, while the Dolphins used that scheme on 491 of their 1116 defensive snaps. The Patriots and Giants were tied for the fourth-most plays in Cover 1. Coaches from the Bill Belichick tree like to play man-to-man and there's no reason to think the Giants won't do the same in 2020.
High blitz frequency
The Dolphins blitzed on 35.1% of their defensive snaps last year, which was the seventh-highest frequency in the NFL, according to PFF. The Giants blitzed about 30% of the time last year, which was just above the league average. Without a proven pass rusher, Miami used many players standing up at the line of scrimmage to confuse quarterbacks. There were many third-and-longs characterized by several players standing near the line of scrimmage to disguise who was blitzing and who was dropping into coverage.
3-4 base defense
I think Graham will use a 3-4 as his base scheme, but he and Judge have indicated the team's basic fronts can change week to week to counter their opponents.
An amoeba defense
Belichick's defenses have always liked to shift their schemes from week to week or series to series, depending on the opponent's offensive scheme. Judge and Graham have been forthright that they plan on having their defense look very different each week. Shifting schemes like this can make it difficult on opposing offenses to prepare for the Giants' defense.
View photos of every roster addition made by the Giants this offseason.
OT Andrew Thomas
(AP Photo/John Bazemore, File)
S Xavier McKinney
(AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee)
OT Matt Peart
(AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
CB Darnay Holmes
(AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
OL Shane Lemieux
(AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
LB Cam Brown
(AP Photo/Doug McSchooler)
LB Carter Coughlin
(AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
LB T.J. Brunson
(AP Photo/Sean Rayford)
DB Chris Williamson
(AP Photo/Stacy Bengs)
LB Tae Crowder
(AP Photo/John Amis)
CB James Bradberry
(AP Photo/Brian Blanco)
LB Blake Martinez
(AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
LB Kyler Fackrell
(AP Photo/Morry Gash)
OT Cam Fleming
(AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
RB Dion Lewis
(AP Photo/James Kenney)
LS Casey Kreiter
(AP Photo/David Zalubowski)
DL Austin Johnson
(AP Photo/James Kenney)
S Nate Ebner
(Ryan Kang via AP)
QB Colt McCoy
(AP Photo/Nick Wass)
DB Dravon Askew-Henry
(AP Photo/James Kenney)
TE Levine Toilolo
(AP Photo/Tony Avelar)
S Montre Hartage
(AP Photo/Butch Dill)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Cooper Rush (7) passes during an NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers, Saturday, Aug. 10, 2019 in Santa Clara, Calif. The 49ers defeated the Cowboys 17-9. (Greg Trott via AP)
S Jaquarius Landrews
(AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
RB Javon Leake
(AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
WR Austin Mack
(AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)
T Kyle Murphy
(AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
WR Derrick Dillon
(AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)
