The Giants host the Cowboys at MetLife Stadium in a primetime matchup to kick off the season.
The two NFC East teams underwent major transformations during the offseason. In addition to some big changes with the two coaching staffs, the Giants and Cowboys brought in a lot of new players on both sides of the ball.
This will lead to some very different looking starting lineups from Week 1 of last year.
With that being said, here are some players to watch in the season opener between the two NFC East rivals.
QB Jaxson Dart
In 12 starts during his rookie campaign, Dart totaled 24 touchdowns (15 passing, nine rushing) to go with 2,272 passing yards and an additional 487 yards on the ground. He registered just one rush attempt in the Week 2 matchup in Dallas last year, but he did start under center in the Week 18 matchup. Dart completed 68.8 percent of his passes for 230 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions in that game, earning a passer rating of 110.2, the highest of his rookie season. He also added five rush attempts for 32 yards (6.4 avg.).
Dart starts an important Year 2 against what should be a much-improved Cowboys defense. Jadaveon Clowney and Dante Fowler Jr. have been replaced on the edge by Rashaan Gary, Von Miller and Malachi Lawrence. Meanwhile, Quinnen Williams and Kenny Clark enter Week 1 having a full offseason to get comfortable in the defense, something they did not get to do last year, while DeMarvion Overshown is fully healthy and ready to go. Let's not forget Caleb Downs, Jalen Thompson and Cobie Durant added to the secondary, along with the addition of defensive coordinator Christian Parker.
"He's worked really hard at it," coach John Harbaugh said this week about Dart picking up the new offense quickly. "I think he's diligent. He wants to do well. He wants to understand everything inside and out. He wants to be sharp and on point, and he's worked at it. So, he's prepared to play."
View photos of the Giants on the practice field as they prepare for this week's season opener against the Cowboys.
QB Jaxson Dart (6)
LB Arvell Reese (52)
RB Cam Skattebo (44)
WR Malik Nabers (1)
OLB Kayvon Thibodeaux (5)
RB Najee Harris (23)
QB Jameis Winston (19), QB Jaxson Dart (6)
S Ar'Darius Washington (24)
RB Cam Skattebo (44)
CB Colton Hood (12)
S Ar'Darius Washington (24)
RB Najee Harris (23)
CB Dru Phillips (22)
QB Jaxson Dart (6)
S Jevón Holland (8)
OLB Brian Burns (0)
WR Odell Beckham Jr. (13)
QB Jaxson Dart (6)
S Ar'Darius Washington (24)
S Jason Pinnock (25)
WR Malik Nabers (1)
QB Jameis Winston (19)
WR Odell Beckham Jr. (13)
CB Deonte Banks (2)
S Jason Pinnock (25)
WR Malik Nabers (1)
S Raheem Layne (43)
S Jason Pinnock (25)
WR Odell Beckham Jr. (13)
OLB Brian Burns (0)
TE Isaiah Likely (9)
LB Tremaine Edmunds (49)
LB Tremaine Edmunds (49)
OLB Zaire Barnes (46)
OLB Brian Burns (0)
LB Jack Kelly (51)
OLB Kayvon Thibodeaux (5)
LB Martin Chandler (55)
LB Jack Kelly (51)
LB Tremaine Edmunds (49)
ILB Micah McFadden (41)
OLB Abdul Carter (3), OLB Kayvon Thibodeaux (5)
OLB Kayvon Thibodeaux (5)
WR Odell Beckham Jr. (13)
WR Odell Beckham Jr. (13)
OLB Abdul Carter (3)
T Andrew Thomas (78)
OLB Kayvon Thibodeaux (5)
OLB Kayvon Thibodeaux (5)
CB Deonte Banks (2)
OLB Abdul Carter (3)
QB Jaxson Dart (6)
OLB Brian Burns (0)
WR Braxton Berrios (87)
WR Malik Nabers (1)
WR Malik Nabers (1)
QB Jaxson Dart (6)
QB Jaxson Dart (6)
WR Braxton Berrios (87)
OLB Abdul Carter (3)
OLB Brian Burns (0)
QB Jaxson Dart (6)
WR Braxton Berrios (87)
WR Malik Nabers/WR Malachi Fields
During the Week 2 overtime game against the Cowboys last year, Nabers exploded for nine receptions, 167 yards and two touchdowns. Two weeks later, the young wideout suffered the season-ending knee injury that he is still working his way back from. While he has been a full participant in practice this week, Nabers' status for Sunday night's game remains up in the air.
"I think he's ready to go, man," Harbaugh told the media after practice Wednesday. "We'll see though. I mean, it's still four days, five days, four days until we play. So, if he's ready to go and he feels like he's ready to go, then he'll play. If he's not and he's not ready, then he won't play. That's how it works."
If Nabers is out there, he will of course serve as one of the focal points of the passing game. But either way, the Giants will need their other pass-catchers to step up. Enter Malachi Fields. The rookie is set to make his NFL debut under the bright lights after putting together a strong performance this summer, which included being on the receiving end of Dart's lone touchdown pass during the preseason.
TE Isaiah Likely
The biggest offensive addition the Giants made this offseason came at the tight end position. Soon after the negotiating period opened during free agency, Likely agreed to terms with the Giants, joining Harbaugh on his move from Baltimore to East Rutherford. The head coach has spoken ad nauseam about how the tight end is going to play a big role in the passing game this season, which is exactly what we saw all summer. Likely and Dart began to develop a connection during spring practices, and that growing chemistry carried over into training camp.
According to Next Gen Stats, Likely aligned detached (separate from the offensive line) on 57.1 percent of his snaps last season, the ninth-highest rate among tight ends with 300 or more offensive snaps. On those plays, he averaged 10.2 yards per target, which ranked second among all tight ends with 25 such targets. The Cowboys ranked middle of the pack in terms of receptions, yards and touchdowns allowed to the tight end position last year, but surrendered the most receiving yards and touchdowns to wide receivers. Likely lined up all over the field throughout the summer, which could continue now that the regular season is here.
View rare photos from the historic rivalry between the New York Giants and Dallas Cowboys.
Dallas Cowboy quarterback Don Meredith (17) is tackled after an 8-yard run in the second quarter of Sunday's game at the Cotton Bowl against the New York Giants September 24, 1967. Making the tackle are Giant Linebackers Bill Swain (52) and Vince Costello (57). (AP Photo)
Y.A. Tittle directs a last minute shift in strategy as the big Giants line engages the Dallas Cowboys, Nov. 12, 1963. (AP Photo/Ruben Goldberg)
New York Giants right end Aaron Thomas (88) tries hard but fails to catch pass from quarterback Fran Tarkenton in second quarter of game with the Dallas Cowboys at Yankee Stadium, Dec. 16, 1968, New York. Unidentified Cowboy pacing Thomas also failed in his intercepted attempt. The Cowboys won, 28-10. (AP Photo/Harry Harris)
Cowboys fullback James Stiger (40) wasn't stopped by Giants Defensive back Jim Patton (20) in a play in the fourth quarter of their game at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas October 12, 1964. Stiger slipped from Patton a grasp and sailed through the air for a 11 yard gain. Coming in on the play is defensive Giants back Andy Nelson. (AP Photo)
Y.A. Tittle the hero is used to receiving attention and adulation wherever he goes. Here admiring young fans escort him from the field after a victory over the Dallas Cowboys, Nov. 12, 1963. (AP Photo/Ruben Goldberg)
First quarter of NFL game in Yankee Stadium, on Dec. 6, 1960 in New York. (AP Photo)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Roger Staubach (12) grimaces as he is hit hard by New York Giants defensive end Fred Dryer (89) and safety Tom Longo (44) after making short gain in second quarter of their game in Dallas, Tex., today, September 27, 1970. (AP Photo)
Y.A. Tittle, quarterback of the N.Y. Giants, directs a last minute shift in strategy as the Giants line crouches to engage the Dallas Cowboys, Nov. 12, 1963. (AP Photo/Ruben Goldberg)
Dallas Cowboys George Andrie (66) during a game against the New York Giants on September 27, 1970 at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York. The Dallas Cowboys beat the Minnesota Vikings 28-10. Craig Morton played for 11 season all with the Dallas Cowboys and was a 5-time Pro Bowler.(David Durochik via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Craig Morton (15) turns to handoff as Dallas Cowboys linebacker Lee Roy Jordan (55) and safety Cliff Harris (43) run in pursuit during an NFL game in Flushing on October 12, 1975. The Cowboys defeated the Giants 13-7 in Shea Stadium. (AP Photo/Kevin Terrell)
Cliff Harris (43) of the Dallas Cowboys is upended returning a punt by the New York Giants during the second quarter at Yankee Stadium in New York, Dec. 13, 1971. Making the tackle is the Giants' Ralph Heck (55). In the background is Cowboy Claxton Welch. The Cowboys routed the Giants 42-14. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
New York Giants defensive end George Martin flips Dallas Cowboys quarterback Roger Staubach for a loss in the fourth quarter of game, Nov. 5, 1979 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Tough pressure by the Giants almost gave them a victory, but the Cowboys won 16-14 on a last minute field goal. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Roger Staubach (12) is chased by New York Giants defensive end Jack Gregory (81) during an NFL game against the New York Giants Oct. 10, 1976, in East Rutherford, N.J. (Tony Tomsic via AP)
Roger Staubach of the Dallas Cowboys seems oblivious to the presence of New York Giants Henry Reed behind him during the second quarter of Sundays game, Dec. 13, 1971, New York. Staubach threw three touchdown passes to lead the Cowboys to a 42-14 win over New York. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
New York Giants Ottis Anderson (24) is hit by Dallas Cowboys Ken Norton, left, and Eugene Lockhart, right, in this Dec. 1989 photo in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Peter Morgan)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) in action against the Dallas Cowboys at Giants Stadium, East Rutherford, N.J., Sept. 9, 1984. (AP Photo)
New York Giants Mark Bavaro, left, grabs a Phil Simms pass in front of the Dallas Cowboys Vince Albritt in the first quarter of the game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Nov. 2, 1986. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Gary Hogeboom (14) is sacked by New York Giants defensive end Leonard Marshall for a loss of ten yards in the third quarter, Nov. 4, 1984 at Irving, Texas. New York won the game 19-7. (AP Photo/Nuri Vallbona)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms celebrates his 53-yard pass to Lionel Manuel in the fourth quarter against the Dallas Cowboys at Irving, Texas, Nov. 4, 1984. (AP Photo/LK)
New York Giants running back Joe Morris (20) runs upfield during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys in East Rutherford on October 30, 1983. The Cowboys defeated the Giants 38-20. (AP Photo/Chuck Solomon)
New York Giants defensive end Lawrence Taylor rushes upfield against the Dallas Cowboys November 6, 1998 in New York. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
Dallas Cowboys running back Tony Dorsett, right, is hauled down by the New York Giants Carl Banks in the first quarter at Giants Stadium, Sunday, Oct. 6, 1985, East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
Earnest Gray (83), a New York Giants wide receiver grabs a pass from quarterback Phil Simms during the second period in Texas Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 5, 1984. Everson Wall (24) of the Cowboys was unable to prevent the 18 yard pass completion to the sidelines. The Giants beat Dallas 19-7. (AP Photo/DGB)
New York Giants tackle Brad Benson (60) prepares to block during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys in East Rutherford on October 30, 1983. The Cowboys defeated the Giants 38-20. (AP Photo/Chuck Solomon)
Dallas Cowboys running back Tony Dorsett (33) can't elude the grasp of New York Giants defensive end Curtis McGriff (76) during second half action in Texas Stadium in Irving, Sept. 28, 1981. The Giants held Dorsett to 70-yards for the day and stopped his 100-yards or better per games at three. The Cowboys still played well enough to defeat the Giants 18-10. (AP Photo/Ron Heflin)
New York Giants wide-receiver Johnny Perkins sprints down the side lines during second half action Sunday September 28, 1981 at Texas Stadium in Irving, Texas. Perkins (86) caught a pass from quarterback Phil Simms and was stopped by Dallas Cowboys safety Michael Downs (26). The Cowboys defeated the Giants 18-10 to win their fourth straight game. (AP Photo/Harry Cabluck)
Dallas Cowboys running back Lincoln Coleman (44) is in the center of a free-for- all with the New York Giants at the end of the first half Monday night, Nov. 7, 1994 in Irving, Texas. The Cowboys won, 38-10. -- (November 8, 1994.)
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan (92) celebrates during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys at the Meadowlands, East Rutherford, N.J., Oct. 18, 1999. The Giants defeated the Cowboys 13-10. (AP Photo/NFL Photos/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants Pepper Johnson tries to stop Dallas Cowboys Emmitt Smith during the first quarter of their match up at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, Sunday, Sept. 13, 1992. Johnson was able to hold the charging Smith to just one yard on the play. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) gets some much needed protection from Doug Reisenberg (72) as he blocks Dallas Cowboys Tony Casillas (75) during the third quarter at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Sept. 13, 1992. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Anthony Wright (2) hits the ground after being sacked by New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan in the fourth quarater Sunday, Dec. 17, 2000 in Irving, Texas. (AP Photo/Donna McWilliam)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo (9) and New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora (72) during an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 20, 2009, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/LM Otero)
Former President George W. Bush and his wife, Laura, watches his coin toss, as do officials and New York Giants and Dallas Cowboys players before an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 20, 2009, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/LM Otero)
New York Giants tight end Kevin Boss, left, crosses the goal line for a touchdown before Dallas Cowboys safety Keith Davis pushed him out during the first quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 2, 2008, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants players including Shaun O'Hara (60) and David Diehl, right, celebrate after Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) scored the wining touchdown on a 1-yard run against the Dallas Cowboys in the fourth quarter of an NFC divisional playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 13, 2008, in Irving, Texas. The Giants beat the Cowboys 21-17. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants cornerback R.W. McQuarters (25) intercepts a pass intended for Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Terry Glenn (83) in the end zone during the final seconds of the fourth quarter of an NFC divisional playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 13, 2008, in Irving, Texas. The interception ended the Cowboys' final drive and sealed the Giants' 21-17 win. (AP Photo/Donna McWilliam)
New York Giants wide receiver Amani Toomer (81) beats Dallas Cowboys linebacker Akin Ayodele, right, to the end zone as Toomer scores a touchdown on a 52-yard pass play in an NFC divisional playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 13, 2008, in Irving, Texas. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)
Dallas Cowboys running back Marion Barber (24) fumbles the ball as he is hit by New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan in the first quarter of an NFC divisional playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 13, 2008, in Irving, Texas. The Cowboys recovered the ball on the play. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)
New York Giants wide receiver Amani Toomer races 52 yards against the Dallas Cowboys for a touchdown in the first quarter in an NFC divisional playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 13, 2008, in Irving, Texas. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants fullback Jim Finn carries a pass from quarterback Eli Manning for 15 yards in the fourth quarter of the Giants' 17-10 victory over the Dallas Cowboys to give the Giants sole possession of first place in the NFC East, Sunday, Dec. 4, 2005, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Cowboys cornerback Terrence Newman tries but can't stop Finn's run. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
Dallas Cowboys' Terrell Owens (81) tries to get around New York Giants' R.W. McQuarters (25), right, and Sam Madison (22) after a reception during the second quarter of NFL Football in East Rutherford, N.J. on Sunday, Dec. 3, 2006. (AP Photo/Tim Larsen)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) celebrates his touchdown against the Dallas Cowboys by standing on the Cowboy's star in the end zone in the third quarter of their football game in Irving, Texas, Monday, Oct. 23, 2006. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Drew Bledsoe (11) is sacked for a loss of six yards by New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan (92) in the 2nd quarter of their football game in Irving, Texas, Monday, Oct. 23, 2006. (AP Photo/L.M. Otero)
New York Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress (17) pull in a 50-yard touchdown pass in front of Dallas Cowboys safety Patrick Watkins (25) in the first quarter of their football game in Irving, Texas, Monday, Oct. 23, 2006. (AP Photo/L.M. Otero))
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan celebrates after sacking Dallas Cowboys quarterback Drew Bledsoe, rear during the third quarter Sunday, Dec. 4, 2005 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won 17-10. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Dallas Cowboys running back Julius Jones hangs on to the ball while being tackled by New York Giants' Nick Greisen during the third quarter Sunday, Dec. 4, 2005 in East Rutherford, N.J. Jones finished the game with 74 rushing yards and 88 receiving yards, but the Giants won 17-10. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan, front, celebrates after sacking Dallas Cowboys quarterback Drew Bledsoe, left rear, during the third quarter Sunday, Dec. 4, 2005, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Cowboys guard Larry Allen is behind Strahan. The Giants won, 17-10. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants defensive tackle Kendrick Allen celebrates after recovering a fumble during the second quarter against the Dallas Cowboys Sunday, Dec. 4, 2005 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning calls an audible during he fourth quarter agaisnt the Dallas Cowboys Sunday night, Jan. 2, 2005, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Manning completed 18 of 27 passes for 144 yards and three touchdowns, leading the Giants to a 28-24 win. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants safety Brent Alexander reacts as he carries the ball after intercepting Drew Bledsoe's pass intended for Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Keyshawn Johnson in the fourth quarter of the Giants' 17-10 victory over Dallas, Sunday, Dec. 4, 2005, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
Dallas Cowboys coach Bill Parcells, right, shakes hands with New York Giants coach Tom Coughlin after the Giants' 26-10 win in Irving, Texas, Sunday, Oct. 10, 2004. (AP Photo/L.M. Otero)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber (21) crashes over Dallas Cowboy cornerback Terence Newman (41) as Cowboys linebacker Bradie James (56) tries to make the stop in the 4th quarter in Irving, Texas, Sunday, Oct. 10, 2004. The Giants won, 26-10. (AP Photo/Tim Sharp)
New York Giants' Visanthe Shiancoe celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Dallas Cowboys during the second quarter Sunday, Jan. 2, 2005 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
Dallas Cowboys running back Eddie George (27) and New York Giants safety Gibril Wilson (28) get into a shoving match after George picked up 24-yards on a running play in the 1st quarter in Irving, Texas, Sunday, Oct. 10, 2004. (AP Photo/Donna McWilliam)
New York Giants corner back Frnk Walker (41) knocks the pass away from Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Keyshawn Johnson (19) in the end zone in 1st quarter at Irving, Texas, Sunday, Oct. 10, 2004. The Giants won, 26-10. (AP Photo/Donna McWilliam)
New York Giants Ike Hilliard (88) dives over the goal line for a touchdown in the second quarter against the Dallas Cowboys, in Irving, Texas, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2002. (AP Photo/Tim Sharp)
Dallas Cowboys coach Bill Parcells, left, shakes hands with New York Giants coach Jim Fassel, prior to the game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Monday Sept. 15, 2003. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Kerry Collins (5) runs with the ball in the second quarter against the Dallas Cowboys Sunday, Dec. 17, 2000, as Cowboys defensive end Greg Ellis (98) gives chase. (AP Photo/Donna McWilliam)
Dallas Cowboys' Troy Hambrick (42) is tackled by New York Giants Will Peterson (24) during the second quarter at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Monday, Sept. 15, 2003. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants' Brian Mitchell, right, grabs Dallas Cowboys' Zuriel Smith, center, as he carries a punt return in the first quarter at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Monday Sept. 15, 2003. Giants' Quincy Monk (93) and Cowboys' Randal Williams are at left. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber, right, breaks away from Dallas Cowboys safety Tony Dixon as he runs for a 60-yard gain during the first quarter Sunday, Dec. 15, 2002, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Ron Dayne (27) scores a touchdown on a four-yard run during the first quarter against the Dallas Cowboys Sunday, Dec. 15, 2002, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Dayne gained 80 yards and scored two touchdowns as the Giants beat the Cowboys 37-7. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Thabiti Davis, right, blocks a punt by Dallas Cowboys punter Micah Knorr during the fourth quarter Sunday, Nov. 4, 2001, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants beat the Cowboys 27-24 in overtime. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants Tiki Barber (21) pushes off Dallas Cowboys linebacker Dexter Coakley (52) in the fourth quarter Sunday, Oct. 6, 2002, in Irving, Texas. The Giants won, 21-17. (AP Photo/Donna McWilliam)
New York Giants' Hakeem Nicks runs for the end zone during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game between the New York Giants and the Dallas Cowboys at New Meadowlands Stadium Sunday, Nov. 14, 2010, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
The New York Giants celebrate after defeating the Dallas Cowboys 37-34 after an NFL game Sunday, Dec. 11, 2011, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Brandon Wade)
New York Giants cornerback Corey Webstern celebrates in front of the Dallas Cowboys following a failed field goal attempt by the Cowboys in the final seconds of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 11, 2011, in Arlington, Texas. The Giants won 37-34. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)
The New York Giants celebrate after Dallas Cowboys' Dan Bailey, center, had his field goal attempt blocked during the final seconds of an NFL football game against the New York Giants Sunday, Dec. 11, 2011, in Arlington, Texas. New York won 37-34. (AP Photo/Sharon Ellman)
New York Giants' Brandon Jacobs scores the winning touchdown against the Dallas Cowboys during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 11, 2011, in Arlington, Texas. New York won 37-34. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)
New York Giants' Eli Manning during the second quarter of an NFL football game between the New York Giants and the Dallas Cowboys at New Meadowlands Stadium Sunday, Nov. 14, 2010, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants' Kevin Boss, left, fends off Dallas Cowboys' Bradie James during the first quarter of an NFL football game between the New York Giants and the Dallas Cowboys at New Meadowlands Stadium Sunday, Nov. 14, 2010, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants' Brandon Jacobs scores a touchdown as Dallas Cowboys' Anthony Spencer looks on during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 11, 2011, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Sharon Ellman)
New York Giants defensive end Dave Tollefson (71) tries to wrap up Dallas Cowboys quaterback Tony Romo (9) during an NFL football game on Sunday January 1, 2012 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) catches the ball during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2019 in Arlington, Texas. Dallas won 35-17. (Peter Read Miller via AP)
New York Giants tight end Larry Donnell (84) leaps over Dallas Cowboys cornerback Brandon Carr (39) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 13, 2015, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)
New York Giants offensive guard Will Hernandez (71) and tight end Evan Engram (88) celebrate a touchdown catch by Engram in the first half of a NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2019. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) passes between Dallas Cowboys defensive end Tyrone Crawford (98) and free safety Barry Church (42) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct., 19, 2014, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/LM Otero)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo (9) chats with New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning after their NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Cowboys 31-14.(AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) attempts to escape the tackle by Dallas Cowboys cornerback Chidobe Awuzie (24) in the first half of a NFL football game in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2019. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, left, runs past Dallas Cowboys' Jeff Heath during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo is sacked by New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Cowboys 31-14. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, top, scores a touchdown just before the ball is knocked from his hands during the second half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Dec., 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants tight end Evan Engram, left, celebrates his touchdown catch with teammate Will Hernandez (71) during the second half of an NFL football game in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, Sept. 16, 2018. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) signals at the line of scrimmage in the second half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys Sunday, Sept. 13, 2015, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)
Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott (21) is wrapped up by New York Giants defenders after a short run in the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 11, 2016, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Ron Jenkins)
New York Giants cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (41) breaks up a pass intended for Dallas Cowboys' Dez Bryant (88) during an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 11, 2016, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Ron Jenkins)
New York Giants defensive end Dave Tollefson (71) tries to wrap up Dallas Cowboys quaterback Tony Romo (9) during an NFL football game on Sunday January 1, 2012 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (44) breaks loose during the first half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) makes a 18-yard touchdown as Dallas Cowboys safety Will Allen (26) loses his helmet during the second half of aN NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2013, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/LM Otero)
New York Giants strong safety Antrel Rolle (26) intercepts a pass in front of Dallas Cowboys' Dez Bryant (88) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 24, 2013, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants receiver Victor Cruz (80) catches a pass between Dallas Cowboys cornerback Orlando Scandrick (32) and safety Gerald Sensabaugh (43) during an NFL football game Sunday, January 1, 2012 at MetLife Stadium in Newark, New Jersey. The Giants won the game, 31-14. (AP Photo/James D Smith)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) is sacked by New York Giants' Robert Thomas (99) and Romeo Okwara (78) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 11, 2016, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants tight end Daniel Fells (85) drags Dallas Cowboys free safety Barry Church (42) into the end zone for a score as the Giants' Rueben Randle (82) watches during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 19, 2014, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/LM Otero)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs by Dallas Cowboys cornerback Chidobe Awuzie (24) 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 defensive end Leonard Williams (99) reacts after tackling Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott (21) during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Andrew Thomas (78)
Devonta Freeman (31)
Andrew Thomas (78)
Darius Slayton (86)
New York Giants offensive tackle Andrew Thomas (78) catches the ball in the endzone during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 37-34. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) rushes the passer during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 37-34. (Cooper Neill via AP)
Dallas Cowboys defensive end Bradlee Anae (56) pressures New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys defeated the Giants, 37-34. (James D. Smith via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton (86) runs the ball during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 37-34. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants offensive tackle Andrew Thomas (78) on the line of scrimmage during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 37-34. (Cooper Neill via AP)
The New York Giants offensive line lines up across the Dallas Cowboys defensive line during an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. Dallas won 37-34. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws the ball during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 37-34. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) on the line of scrimmage during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 37-34. (Cooper Neill via AP)
Dallas Cowboys linebacker Jaylon Smith (54) attempts to tackle New York Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton (86) during an NFL game against the New York Giants, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 37-34. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants cornerback Darnay Holmes (30) breaks up a pass intended for Dallas Cowboys wide receiver CeeDee Lamb (88) during the second half of an NFL football game in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
New York Giants place kicker Graham Gano (5) kicks a field goal from the hold of Riley Dixon (9) in the first half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - JANUARY 03: The New York Giants take on the Dallas Cowboys at Metlife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Ben Solomon/New York Giants)
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) sacks Dallas Cowboys quarterback Andy Dalton (14) during a week 17 regular season football game at MetLife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) during a week 17 regular season football game against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) sacks Dallas Cowboys quarterback Andy Dalton (14) during a week 17 regular season football game at MetLife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - JANUARY 03: The New York Giants take on the Dallas Cowboys at Metlife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Ben Solomon/New York Giants)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - JANUARY 03: The New York Giants take on the Dallas Cowboys at Metlife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Ben Solomon/New York Giants)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - JANUARY 03: The New York Giants take on the Dallas Cowboys at Metlife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Ben Solomon/New York Giants)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - JANUARY 03: The New York Giants take on the Dallas Cowboys at Metlife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Ben Solomon/New York Giants)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - JANUARY 03: The New York Giants take on the Dallas Cowboys at Metlife Stadium on January 3, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Ben Solomon/New York Giants)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during a week 5 game against the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, Texas on Sunday October 10th, 2021,
A look down the line of scrimmage as the New York Giants take on the Dallas Cowboys during a week 5 game in Arlington, Texas on Sunday October 10th, 2021,
Leonard Williams (99)
Azeez Ojulari (51)
Devontae Booker (28)
Dexter Lawrence (97)
Danny Shelton (75)
Azeez Ojulari (51)
New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (97) during a week 15 football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday December 19th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Saquon Barkley (26)
Ben Bredeson (68), Andrew Thomas (78)
New York Giants defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux (5) during a Monday Night football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Monday September 26, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
Isaiah Hodgins (18)
Kayvon Thibodeaux (5)
Sterling Shepard (3)
Daniel Bellinger (82)
Andrew Thomas (78)
Darius Slayton (86)
Kayvon Thibodeaux (5)
Darius Slayton (86)
Dexter Lawrence (97)
Daniel Jones (8)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Daniel Jones (8)
New York Giants defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux (5) during a NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday November 24, 2022 in Arlington, Texas (Evan Pinkus\New York Giants )
Saquon Barkley (26)
New York Giants defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux (5) during a Monday Night football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Monday September 26, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
New York Giants linebacker Jihad Ward (55) celebrates a tackle during a NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday November 24, 2022 in Arlington, Texas (Evan Pinkus\New York Giants )
TE Daniel Bellinger (82)
Queen Latifah sings the National Anthem before a week 1 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, September 10, 2023 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
A look down the line of scrimmage during a week 10 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, November 12, 2023 in Arlington, Texas. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
NYPD, FDNY,PAPD before a week 1 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, September 10, 2023 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
S Tyler Nubin (31)
OLB Kayvon Thibodeaux (5)
RB Tyrone Tracy Jr. (29)
DT Jordon Riley (95)
WR Malik Nabers (1)
WR Malik Nabers (1)
WR Malik Nabers (1)
RB Cam Skattebo (44)
WR Malik Nabers (1)
WR Malik Nabers (1)
CB Dru Phillips (22)
OLB Brian Burns (0)
WR Malik Nabers (1)
OLB Kayvon Thibodeaux (5)
WR Malik Nabers (1)
RB Tyrone Tracy Jr. (29)
OLB Abdul Carter (51)
OLB Brian Burns (0)
OLB Abdul Carter
Despite his season sack total ending at just four, Carter had an encouraging rookie campaign. The outside linebacker generated 72 total pressures, which ranked as the seventh-most in the NFL, and generated them in an average of 2.43 seconds. This was the fastest mark of any edge rusher with at least 40 pressures by 0.19 seconds. Not only that, but his 45 quick pressures (under 2.5 seconds) led the entire NFL. According to NGS, when Carter was on the field, the Giants generated quick pressure on 18.6 percent of opponent dropbacks, which would have been the second-highest mark of any defense on the season. When he was on the field, that number dropped to 10.0 percent rate, which would have been the lowest in the league.
Carter's first season was a tale of two parts. In the 11 games from Weeks 1-11, he totaled just a half-sack to go with 35 total pressures. In the six-game span from Weeks 12-18, he totaled 31 pressures and accumulated 3.5 sacks. 14 of his 23 quarterback hits on the season also came during this final six-game stretch, in addition to both of his forced fumbles. The Giants hope the second-year outside linebacker can carry that late-season momentum into Year 2.
"What Abdul is doing is he's mastering the technique and fundamentals," defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson told the media last month. "Abdul is trying to be a technician on the football field. It's no more just pass rush. It's about being a true end, and he's embracing it every day. He comes out here and works. He's coming down the line, and they're running flash blocks, and he's trying to go meet it in the A and B gap, and then he has the ability to convert.
"I think just like all players, man, it's not the first year. It's the second year. It's the maturation. It's them growing as players, growing as men off the field, and you see these young guys growing every day because it's the second go-around or it's the third go-around. It's a new opportunity. It's a new staff. They're being embraced from a coaching standpoint, and I think they all love being around each other in the room, and you're seeing it on the field right now. We just hope it carries over in the season and carries over in the games."
LB Tremaine Edmunds/LB Arvell Reese
Outside of the arrival of Dennard Wilson, the biggest change to the defense is at linebacker. The Giants' underwent a complete overhaul of their linebacker core, which started with the signing of Tremaine Edmunds in free agency and then continued with the selections of Arvell Reese (No. 5 overall) and Jack Kelly (No. 193) in the draft. The only returning players are Micah McFadden, who missed basically the entire season last year, and Zaire Barnes, who primarily played on special teams.
Edmunds measures in at 6-foot-4, 251 pounds while Reese is also right there at 6-foot-4, 243 pounds. The two provide the Giants with an athletic, sideline-to-sideline linebacker duo. The two showed the impact they could have on the defense all summer, coming up with plays in coverage, against the run, and in the pass rush. Edmunds comes into Week 1 with 119 starts under his belt, including 13 last season for the Bears. The veteran converted 59 tackles against the run and missed just four (6.3 percent) in 2025, while Giants linebackers had a missed tackle rate of 18.4 percent, the second-highest of any team. While Edmunds is set to make his Giants debut on Sunday night, Reese will be taking the field for his official NFL debut. After Edmunds sat out the entire preseason, this primetime matchup will be the first time the two linebackers take the field together for a real game.
"Some of the play-action passes, it's hard for quarterbacks to throw it over top of them, especially when their eyes are right," Wilson said a couple of weeks ago about the length between Edmunds and Reese. "When they get their depth, they're long. They're big guys. So, it just clogs their windows. Both of them are very athletic in their zone drops. They do a great job of matching and taking windows away, and then ultimately, they have the athleticism to break on the ball. They have a unique trait or unique skillset, and it's good for the New York Giants."
