Giants' Mike Kafka confirms starting QB news, addresses firing of Brian Daboll

Mike Kafka spoke with media members on Wednesday for the first time since he was named the New York Giants' interim head coach and didn't wait to announce some expected news. 

As shared by SNY, Kafka confirmed earlier reports that Jameis Winston will replace Russell Wilson as the Giants' temporary starting quarterback as rookie Jaxson Dart works his way through the concussion protocol. That decision puts Winston on track to make his regular-season debut when the 2-8 Giants host the Green Bay Packers (5-3-1) Sunday afternoon. 

Mike Kafka addresses firing of Brian Daboll

Kafka was elevated to the role of interim head coach after the Giants dismissed head coach Brian Daboll on Monday. Kafka served as New York's offensive coordinator under Daboll since 2022.

"This is a league of incredibly difficult situations, decisions," Kafka said about the firing of Daboll. "I just have the utmost respect for Dabes for what he's done for me, not only as a friend but as a coach, giving me an opportunity here to be an offensive coordinator. My thoughts are with him and his family. I just appreciate the things that he's done for me, and I've learned a lot from him."

A February 2024 report revealed that "there was absolutely tension" between Daboll and Kafka that nearly resulted in Kafka leaving the Giants following the 2023 season. Per NFL insider Connor Hughes of SNY, Kafka "had his play-calling revoked at points" during the 2023 campaign. Following that season, the Giants reportedly blocked the Seattle Seahawks from interviewing Kafka regarding their offensive coordinator role. 

The Giants ultimately added the title of assistant head coach to Kafka's role in February 2024, and he will call plays as interim head coach. 

Did Mike Kafka know Brian Daboll firing was coming

A report indicated the Giants were preparing to part ways with Daboll before the club squandered a 10-point fourth-quarter lead en route to suffering a 24-20 loss at the Chicago Bears in Week 10. On Wednesday, Kafka hinted that he didn't see Monday's developments coming ahead of time. 

"I certainly didn't anticipate it, but it was one of those things, they happen in this league," Kafka added. "I'm appreciative of what Dabes has done for me as a professional, as a coach, as a person."

While some have called for the Giants to also fire defensive coordinator Shane Bowen, Kafka said he doesn't anticipate making any other changes to the coaching staff at this time. Kafka also praised Wilson for how he handled being relegated to the team's third-choice option behind Winston and a healthy Dart.