Brian Daboll Says He’s Trying to Evolve in Role as Giants Head Coach

Brian Daboll knows he's far from perfect, but he says he is committed to improving as a leader every day.

New York Giants head coach Brian Daboll knows he’s far from being perfect, especially when it comes to his passion and competitiveness during the heat of a game.

But during his Tuesday morning media session with reporters at the annual league meeting, Daboll spoke of being aware of his faults and his constant effort to evolve as both a person and as a head coach.

“Every year, there’s a self-evaluation process that goes on,” Daboll said. “I’m a very passionate person. But yeah, there are times when I certainly wish I had handled things differently. So, you continue to grow. You continue to evolve. That’s what I try to do every year.”

Daboll, who won the Coach of the Year honors in his first season after guiding the Giants to a 9-7-1 record and their first postseason appearance since 2016, drew criticism earlier this year after some public displays on the sideline of him losing his cool with either players or coaches. 

His fiery demeanor reportedly caused him to clash with some on his staff, most notably former defensive coordinator Wink Martindale, who resigned after the season ended.

There was also another incident caught on tape in which Daboll angrily flipped a tablet after conferring with quarterback Daniel Jones on the sideline following a turnover, and there have been what some might describe as icy stares at coaches and players following a breakdown in a play. 

Giants co-owner John Mara told reporters Monday that he had not addressed Daboll’s demeanor with the head coach but did say he wished Daboll would “tone it down.” Mara also added that he didn’t view Daboll’s behavior as “irrational,” nor believed there were cultural issues inside the team’s headquarters.

Regardless, Daboll's willingness to admit to not being perfect and open to changing his ways speaks volumes about his maturity level as a still relatively new NFL head coach. 

“I’m passionate about winning. I’m passionate about our team. When we lose, I’m very passionate,” Daboll said. “So, my focus always is: What can I do better? How can I be a better coach? How can I be a better leader?”

Those answers will start to crystallize as various scenarios and challenges present themselves.

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