The New York Giants had a disappointing 2023-24 NFL season. With a record of 6-11, they came up well short of the playoffs after reaching the divisional round the year prior. There was speculation that there was tension inside the locker room this season. Now, a new report reveals that there was even more tension than we originally thought.
Xavier McKinney Reportedly Threatened to Not Re-Sign
Recently, it was revealed that the New York Giants and DC Wink Martindale were going to part ways. This came after rumors that Martindale was going to resign. Now, there is another chapter added to this saga.
Fireside Giants of Empire Sports Media reports that one particular Giants player did not want to play under Martindale. According to an anonymous New York Giants insider, S Xavier McKinney was not going to re-sign with the Giants if Martindale was still the defensive coordinator.
Xavier McKinney’s Impact
This is relevant because McKinney is one of the bright young players on the Giants defense. He has been a safety in this Giants defense for the past four seasons. What has he done in this stretch?
McKinney has had nine interceptions, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, and 180 solo tackles in four seasons. This past season, McKinney had three interceptions, a forced fumble, two fumble recoveries, and 78 solo tackles. It only shows that McKinney is getting better as he ages.
Now, McKinney is a free agent in this upcoming offseason. He would be a big loss if the New York Giants fail to re-sign him. There are still no guarantees that he will stay with the Giants. However, if the above report is true, they certainly increased their chances by parting ways with Martindale.
New York Giants Moving Forward
The New York Giants now look to bounce back from a disappointing 2023-24 season. Giants GM Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll will have pressure to get back to the standard they set in the 2023-23 season. That will be a long and difficult road. However, it starts in the 2024 NFL Draft and re-signing key free agents such as S Xavier McKinney.
Also, the Giants will need to find a new defensive coordinator. There are several rumors as to who may replace Martindale here. No matter who it is, the Giants are going to expect there to be immediate results.
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