The New York Giants have let go of defensive coordinator Shane Bowen, as confirmed by a source familiar with the decision. This information was shared with The Associated Press on Monday, with the source requesting anonymity due to the lack of an official announcement.
The decision was made by interim head coach Mike Kafka after the team suffered its sixth straight loss, dropping their record to 2-10 this season. The latest setback came against the Detroit Lions, who amassed 494 total yards and triumphed 34-27 in overtime, marking yet another instance of a fourth-quarter lead slipping away.
According to NFL Network”s Tom Pelissero, outside linebackers coach Charlie Bullen will step in as the interim defensive coordinator. The Giants” defense has been underperforming this season, allowing nearly 28 points per game, ranking them last in the league for run defense, and placing them 30th out of 32 teams overall.
In the recent game against the Lions, Jahmyr Gibbs rushed for 219 yards and scored two touchdowns, further highlighting the struggles of the Giants” defense. Initially, after taking over for the dismissed coach Brian Daboll, Kafka stated he would not make immediate changes to his coaching staff, aside from promoting tight ends coach Tim Kelly to offensive coordinator. He expressed enthusiasm about attacking the upcoming week with his current team.
However, losing a fifth game this season after leading by double digits proved to be the tipping point for Bowen”s tenure. Similar collapses occurred throughout the season, including games at Dallas on September 14, at New Orleans on October 5, at Denver on October 19, and at Chicago on November 9, which ultimately resulted in ownership”s decision to part ways with Daboll.
