Giants Prioritize Stopping the Run Under New Coach Harbaugh

Harbaugh and GM Schoen discuss plans to bolster the offensive line and support young QB Jaxson Dart

Mar. 31, 2026 at 11:16pm

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At the NFL Annual Meeting, new Giants head coach John Harbaugh and general manager Joe Schoen spoke to reporters about their priorities for the upcoming season. Harbaugh made it clear that stopping the run will be a major focus, saying "That is the end of the world. That's a disaster." The team's signing of linebacker Tremaine Edmunds in free agency reflects this emphasis. Schoen also discussed the offensive line, noting that veteran guard Greg Van Roten is "no longer here" but could still return. Harbaugh expressed confidence in young linemen Evan Neal and Joshua Ezeudu, saying "Let's give them a shot. Let's give them an opportunity." The Giants are also excited about the potential of tight end Isaiah Likely, who Harbaugh coached in Baltimore and believes will have a bigger impact in New York.

Why it matters

The Giants are looking to build on their success from last season and take the next step as a team. Improving the run defense and offensive line will be critical to supporting young quarterback Jaxson Dart's development. Harbaugh's old-school mentality on stopping the run and the team's efforts to bolster the trenches show their commitment to establishing a physical, tough brand of football.

The details

Harbaugh made it clear that stopping the run will be a top priority for the Giants, saying "That is the end of the world. That's a disaster." The team's signing of linebacker Tremaine Edmunds in free agency reflects this emphasis on improving the run defense. On the offensive side, Schoen acknowledged that veteran guard Greg Van Roten is "no longer here" but left the door open for a possible return. Harbaugh expressed confidence in young linemen Evan Neal and Joshua Ezeudu, saying "Let's give them a shot. Let's give them an opportunity." The Giants are also excited about the potential of tight end Isaiah Likely, who Harbaugh coached in Baltimore and believes will have a bigger impact in New York.

  • The Giants.com crew discussed the comments from Harbaugh and Schoen at the NFL Annual Meeting in Phoenix on March 31, 2026.

The players

John Harbaugh

The new head coach of the New York Giants, known for his old-school mentality and emphasis on stopping the run.

Joe Schoen

The general manager of the New York Giants, who discussed the team's plans to bolster the offensive line.

Tremaine Edmunds

A free agent linebacker signed by the Giants, reflecting their priority on improving the run defense.

Evan Neal

A young offensive lineman who the Giants are giving another chance to develop and contribute.

Joshua Ezeudu

Another young offensive lineman who the Giants are hoping can take a step forward after being drafted by the team.

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What they’re saying

“That is the end of the world. That's a disaster. If it breaks out past that we can't even breathe. That's how you feel about stopping the run. We want the run stopped. You want the run stoned. You don't want it going anywhere.”

— John Harbaugh, Head Coach, New York Giants

“They're motivated. They came to the office and sat down and laid out a plan and a vision of the type of players they want to be. They showed us what they're doing to make that happen right now. So let's give them a shot. Let's give them an opportunity. They're talented. They're tough. They want to be great. They have dreams. They have big dreams. So if they're going to dream big I would like them to do it right here in our building and try to realize those dreams with us.”

— John Harbaugh, Head Coach, New York Giants

What’s next

The Giants will continue to evaluate their options to further strengthen the offensive line, either through free agency or the upcoming draft, as they look to build a strong supporting cast around young quarterback Jaxson Dart.

The takeaway

Under new head coach John Harbaugh, the Giants are clearly prioritizing a physical, run-stopping defense and a sturdy offensive line to support their young quarterback. This old-school approach reflects Harbaugh's philosophy and the team's desire to establish a tough, blue-collar identity in the NFC East.