The New York Giants suffered a 33-15 defeat to the New England Patriots on Monday night in Week 13, highlighting ongoing discipline issues with rookies Abdul Carter and Jaxson Dart. Carter was benched for the first quarter due to tardiness, marking his second such incident in three weeks. Dart's recklessness on the field raised concerns after his recent return from a concussion.
The New York Giants' 33-15 loss to the New England Patriots on Monday Night Football exposed deeper organizational challenges, particularly involving their young talent. Rookie pass rusher Abdul Carter, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, sat out the entire first quarter after arriving late to a team meeting, according to reports. This was the second time in three weeks Carter had been benched; in Week 11 against the Green Bay Packers, he missed the opening series amid confusion over a schedule change, which he described as an honest mistake related to treatment. Entering the game in the second quarter with the Patriots already leading 17-0, Carter recorded one sack and four tackles. When asked about the benching, Carter simply stated, "Shit happens," declining further details. Interim coach Mike Kafka confirmed it was his decision.
Quarterback Jaxson Dart, another first-round pick, compounded the Giants' woes with risky plays. Fresh off a weeks-long absence due to a concussion, Dart took a crushing sideline hit on a first-quarter scramble, drawing criticism from Hall of Famer Troy Aikman, who urged the 22-year-old to protect himself better. Despite the Giants firing head coach Brian Daboll in November amid fines for safety protocol violations and on-field desperation, discipline issues persist. The loss underscores the need for strong leadership, with experts suggesting candidates like Jesse Minter or Jeff Hafley who emphasize structure over flash. Carter's season stats include 31 tackles, 13 QB hits, 1.5 sacks, and one fumble recovery in 13 games. The Giants, once known for resilience, now face questions about maximizing investments in players like Dart and recovering star Malik Nabers.
