### Giants' Coaching Drama: Patriots Should Pay Close Attention to Developments in New York

The New York Giants recently demonstrated their commitment to head coach Brian Daboll, but recent events suggest that ownership might be reconsidering. This shift has caught the attention of other NFL teams, including the New England Patriots, who are keenly observing the situation in East Rutherford, N.J.

Just weeks ago, Giants owner John Mara assured that neither head coach Brian Daboll nor general manager Joe Schoen would face termination during the season. Mara even indicated their job security extended beyond the 2024 season. However, after the Giants' three consecutive losses, culminating in Sunday's defeat to Carolina in Germany, this assurance seems increasingly uncertain. ESPN’s Adam Schefter highlighted the fragility of this job security: "If the draft were today, the New York Giants would have the No. 1 pick.... Usually, teams that are in the position of having the No. 1 pick usually have some issues and are No. 1 for a reason," he said on "The Pat McAfee Show."

Mara’s previous track record does little to inspire confidence. In 2017, he vowed no mid-season changes, only to fire Ben McAdoo shortly after. The same scenario played out with Joe Judge in 2021. Given the Giants' current trajectory towards securing the No. 1 overall pick in the draft, no one’s position seems as secure as initially promised.

Despite the current struggles, Daboll's tenure with the Giants began promisingly. Leading the team to a 9-7-1 record in his debut season, he even guided them to a playoff victory over Minnesota and earned the Coach of the Year accolade in 2022. However, the subsequent seasons have been dismal, with the Giants posting an 8-19 record and missing the postseason entirely.

If the Giants choose to sever ties with Daboll, he is unlikely to stay unemployed for long. His previous success as a coordinator with the Buffalo Bills makes him an attractive candidate for similar roles. Under Daboll’s guidance, the Bills’ offense improved dramatically, going from 28th in scoring in his first year to maintaining top-10 rankings in the following seasons, even claiming the top spot in 2021.

The Patriots, dealing with mixed results from current coordinator Alex Van Pelt, could find Daboll's proven track record in developing quarterbacks particularly appealing. With highly-touted No. 3 pick Drake Maye on their roster, the Patriots need a coach who can bring out the best in him, similar to how Daboll mentored Josh Allen. Under Daboll's tutelage, Allen evolved into one of the league's premier quarterbacks, finishing second in MVP voting in 2020.

Patriots coach Jerod Mayo sees potential in Maye, citing similarities with Allen in terms of physical attributes and playing style. Maye has already impressed with his powerful arm and rushing ability but requires seasoned guidance to reach his full potential. Daboll’s experience and previous stints with New England make him a prime candidate to fill that role.

As the Giants' situation continues to evolve, the Patriots and other teams will be closely monitoring the developments in New York, ready to act if Daboll becomes available.