The New York Giants are trying to carry the momentum from their wild-card playoff win into the 2023 season.
However, there are obstacles between the Giants and Opening Day, but they are no different than those other teams have to work through as part of the team building process in the offseason.
The Giants have a key piece of their offense still not onboard as running back Saquon Barkley continues to take his time signing his franchise tag. Defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence is also looking for a deal and was among the players not present at the voluntary practices.
Here are four takeaways from Daboll’s press conference during the Giants’ OTAs.
1. Mum on Saquon Barkley
Barkley has yet to sign his franchise tag and was unavailable for OTAs. Daboll addressed the situation in his opening statement.
“I would say with Saquon, that situation is going to be between Saquon and the organization,” Daboll said. “I’m not going to get into detail of any of the discussions we’ve had.”
Even when asked for a followup, Daboll insisted, “I respect the question, but I’m not going to get into any talks about contracts, what could happen, about what could not happen, out of respect for the situation.”
2. Daboll views OTAs as starting over
Even though Daboll is entering his second season as coach, the OTAs still represent square one in preparation for the upcoming season.
“I think it all starts over,” said Daboll. “There are great challenges that lie ahead, but staying in the moment is where we want to be. There are things I’ve learned like everybody’s learned. A new team, a lot of personalities to deal with, we’ve got a lot of work to do, a big hill to climb and let’s take it one day at a time.”
3. Darren Waller impressing so far
The Giants traded for the Pro Bowl tight end during free agency, and OTAs is the first chance to get a look at Waller.
Daboll has liked what he has seen thus far from Waller.
“He’s a true pro,” said Daboll. “He’s been really good for us in the meeting rooms. Gives good input. Good communicator. Has some leadership skills. He’s been a good guy to work with.”
4. Daboll highlights 'good attendance' at OTAs
The Giants had notable players absent at Quest Diagnostic Training Center in defensive end Leonard Williams, defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, and running back Saquon Barkley.
However, Daboll pointed out that OTAs weren’t mandatory and that the team had “good attendance” when asked for comment.
“One, I would say it’s all voluntary, but we have had really good attendance all the way through,” said Daboll. “The guys have been out here working. I think we’ve made some strides relative to when we started back in April. Got a long way to go, but the guys are working well.”
