Giants lose 13-10 to Vikings in preseason, spotlight on Beckham, Dart and defensive depth
The New York Giants fell 13-10 to the Minnesota Vikings in their first preseason game, prompting analysis of Odell Beckham Jr.'s roster prospects, Jaxson Dart's health, and ongoing concerns at cornerback and defensive line.
The New York Giants were defeated 13-10 by the Minnesota Vikings in their opening preseason matchup, a contest that highlighted several roster questions for the team.
Odell Beckham Jr. returned to MetLife Stadium for the first time since rejoining the Giants, recording two catches for six yards in 16 snaps. His performance left his future on the 53-man roster uncertain. > "I love Odell. I do. What he’s doing, what he’s fighting for, I don’t know how it’s going to turn out," head coach Brian Daboll said. Beckham expressed gratitude for the opportunity but acknowledged he must prove himself.
Quarterback Jaxson Dart suffered a hard hit that required a concussion check, but he remained on the field after the evaluation. He later said the experience helped the offense gain valuable live reps. > "I thought it was really good. I really feel like if we were on the same page, we would’ve scored on the first drive," Dart said.
The coaching staff chose to give limited snaps to veteran starters such as Brian Burns and D.J. Reader, aiming to provide game experience without overexposing them. Daboll explained the strategy was to let starters develop chemistry while keeping the roster healthy.
The game also exposed depth issues at cornerback. Presumptive starters Paulson Adebo, Dru Phillips and Greg Newsome did not play, and rookies Colton Hood and Deonte Banks displayed uneven play, including penalties and missed assignments.
On special teams, rookie kicker Dominic Zvada, who recently hit a 62-yard field goal in practice, was not given a chance to attempt a game-tying kick late in the fourth quarter; the Giants opted to punt.
Defensive line depth remained a concern after veteran interior linemen Brian Burns and D.J. Reader sat out. The Giants allowed 5.2 yards per rush on 12 carries, with several runs exceeding 15 yards. Nose tackle Josh Tupou and recent draft pick Bobby Jamison-Travis each saw limited impact, prompting debate among analysts about their effectiveness in the rotation.