He has yet to throw a pass in a game setting for the New York Giants, but new quarterback Russell Wilson, a 10-time Pro Bowler, is already singing the praises of head coach Brian Daboll’s offensive knowledge and understanding.
He expressed his thoughts on Daboll and other topics while speaking with reporters on Wednesday.
“Daboll’s got a beautiful mind, how he sees the game, he’s coached tremendous football players, he’s won Super Bowls, he’s been around winning — national championships, all that stuff,” Wilson said. “… I think that the best part is in terms of the knowledge and what we get to share back and forth is pretty cool.
“… Just over the years, all my experience, his experience, how we see the game the same way.”
Wilson also sang the praises of assistant head coach and offensive coordinator Mike Kafka, who will continue calling plays for the Giants in 2025.
“Obviously Kaf’s played the game, played the position, he sees it like the quarterback does and he’s got a great viewpoint of the game,” said Wilson. “We get to spend a lot of time together in the quarterback room and I think Kaf is a really brilliant mind, too.
“I think the ability to share ideas, the collaboration, is what’s really special here.”
Kafka, with the Giants’ coaching staff since 2022, also highlighted the importance of communication with his new pivot.
“Yeah, just opening up (those) lines of communication, having dialogue on plays that he likes, things that I like, things that are within the offense already, maybe there’s some crossover, maybe there’s some new thoughts,” said the former journeyman QB. “It’s just about opening those lines of communication.”
After two down years with the Denver Broncos in 2022 and 2023, Wilson started 11 regular-season games for the playoff-bound Pittsburgh Steelers in 2024, posting a 6-5 record while passing for 2,482 yards (225.6 per game), 16 touchdowns and five interceptions. He added another two scores on the ground.
Now the 2013 Super Bowl champion is adapting to another new team in New York and transitioning well.
“It’s going great,” said Wilson. “I think guys are working their butts off, man. We’re battling every day, going against a really good defense every day, too, so it’s even better.
“You always want practice to be harder than the games, that mentality of that. … I think we’re getting better every day.”
Wilson has also expressed his eagerness to play alongside talented second-year receiver Malik Nabers.
“I mean, that was (the) first thing I told you guys when I watched him on film. … It was just his explosiveness,” said Wilson of the 2024 sixth overall pick out of LSU. “Once he catches the football, there’s only so many people in the world that can do it like he can and I think he’s one of the best in the world to do it.
“He’s going into a second year of it all and it’s all fresh and all new, but he’s definitely experienced in terms of how he sees the game, his mentality attacking the football in the air. … It’s going to be a special thing. I’m excited to play with him, obviously.”
At age 36, Wilson added that he’s already enjoying playing for his fourth NFL team.
“I love this locker room, the guys, just the fellowship that we have together all the way from the lunchroom to the film room after practice,” Wilson said. “…It’s been great, man. I am truly grateful to be a New York Giant.”
–Field Level Media
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